Episode Summary In this episode of Devine Intervention, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Nora Devine, a seasoned Illinois property tax attorney, to discuss the biggest mistakes property owners make when appealing their property tax assessments. From failing to check property records for errors to making legally irrelevant arguments, Nora breaks down what not to do if you want to successfully appeal your property tax assessment. She also shares expert insights on why understanding local assessor dynamics, gathering the right evidence, and avoiding excessive or misleading data are key to winning an appeal. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Devine Intervention and today’s topic: How to Lose Your Property Tax Appeal 00:05 – Meet Nora Devine: Property tax attorney with statewide experience in Illinois 00:43 – The #1 rule: First, do no harm – Why checking your property record card is crucial 02:23 – Understanding the risks: Could your appeal actually increase your tax bill? 03:00 – Why talking to your local assessor first can improve your appeal’s chances 06:13 – Common mistakes: Why arguing that your taxes have doubled won’t work 06:50 – What makes a legally relevant argument? The key data points you need 07:55 – How to compare your property to others the right way 08:58 – The role of personal bias in property valuations – Do people overestimate or underestimate their property’s value? 10:50 – How property tax assessments differ inside and outside of Cook County 11:16 – Is too much data a bad thing? When to include or exclude information in your appeal 14:51 – When should you contact a property tax attorney? 15:24 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Nora Devine About the Show Devine Intervention is a podcast dedicated to shedding light on Illinois property tax, helping property owners navigate the complex appeals process, and providing expert insights from Nora Devine, a top property tax attorney. Whether you're a homeowner or a commercial property owner, this podcast provides the knowledge you need to make informed tax decisions.