How do you determine a fair property assessment for a unique industrial structure that hasn’t been in operation for years? Is it possible to come to a determination that is best for the property owner and is acceptable to the local government at the same time?

That’s the challenge put before me recently when my office … Read More ›



The old adage still applies.

The only things certain in life are death and taxes. Hoping that you are in good health, let’s focus on property taxes in Chicago and Cook County. You must pay.

Do I have to pay taxes if I’m in the process of filing an appeal?

There is a common misconception that if you … Read More ›


As Cook County residents get hit by the one-two punch of a new property tax assessment system coupled with rising real estate prices, they should consider appealing their property assessments to ensure that the taxes they pay align with the value of their properties.

Tax Appeal Steps

Former Cook County Assessor Joseph Berrios often said that the … Read More ›


The equalization factor is a multiplier used to ensure that the total equalized value, or EAV, of real estate property in all Illinois counties equals 33 1/3 percent of the fair market value. This process is known as inter-county equalization. Each county is assigned its own equalization factor. The equalization factor does not cause taxes … Read More ›