Surf’s Up, Assessments Down: An Introduction to Property Tax Negotiation
2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Negotiating reasonable property tax valuations doesn’t have to feel like paddling into a wave without a board. This workshop session offers a clear, practical introduction to the fundamentals of property tax negotiation, designed for professionals looking to strengthen their foundational skills or build confidence in their approach. The panel will walk through the key elements of preparing a negotiation strategy, communicating effectively with assessors, and identifying opportunities for successful reductions. With real-world examples, common pitfalls, and actionable best practices, attendees will leave equipped with the tools needed to navigate the property tax negotiation process with confidence—no ocean experience required.
Learning Objectives:
After attending this session, participants will be able to:
- Describe the fundamental steps in preparing for a property tax negotiation, including gathering essential information and outlining a basic strategy
- Identify common opportunities for achieving assessment reductions, based on valuation drivers, factual issues, and typical points of leverage
- Apply clear and effective communication techniques to engage productively with assessors during the negotiation process
- Recognize frequent pitfalls in property tax negotiations and apply practical best practices to navigate the process with greater confidence
Moderator:
Michelle DeLappe, JD, LLM, CMI, Partner, Fox Rothschild
Speakers:
Matthew J. Landwehr, Partner, Thompson Coburn LLP
Brandon Wright, CMI, Property Tax Manager, Amazon.Com
Please note that there is a cost to attend.

