Real Property
Real property is defined by statute and is synonymous with Real Estate. Real property is the underlying land and improvements attached to the land, i.e. structures. This encompasses both residential and commercial property.
Purpose of Appraisals
The purpose of the tax appraisal is to value all property within Russell County at its fair and equitable value based on market sales within the county following the guidelines set forth by the requirements and standards of the State Department of Revenue using the guidelines and procedures of the Alabama Appraisal Manual.
Market Value
“Market Value” is defined as the most probable price, expressed in terms of money, that a property would bring in a competitive and open market under all conditions requisite to a fair sale, the buyer and seller each acting prudently and knowledgeably, and assuming the price is not affected by any undue stimulus. i.e. foreclosure sales, cash sales.
Appeals
Appeals of property values in Russell County must be received in writing and post marked within 30-days of the mailing date stated on the valuation notice. The Russell County valuation notice is usually mailed out in the Spring of each tax year.
Please be aware failure to receive a written appeal letter within the 30-day time period will result in no further action taken for the tax year in question, unless an error is discovered..
Please mail all appeals to:
The Russell County Board of Equalization
P.O. Box 1069
Phenix City, Alabama 36868-1069
In order for an appeal to be valid, in your written correspondence please state the reason for the appeal and provide substantiating documents to support any change in value.
Information necessary in your written appeal:
1. Include contact name, phone number and/or email address.
2. State the purpose for the appeal;
3. Identify the parcel (s);
4. Attach supporting evidence for consideration;
- recent appraisals (within last two years);
- listing/sales contracts;
- expired listings;
- photographs;
- repair receipts;
- contractor estimates;
- income/expense statements; three year history-itemized;
- rent rolls;
- leases