Pre-decisional collaboration

ORPTS strives to work closely with assessors and counties on systematic analysis projects. In a process known as pre-decisional collaboration, these parties work together in analyzing market data to establish the LOA and measures of valuation uniformity. Pre-decisional collaboration can take place at three different levels.

• Lowest level: ORPTS performs the necessary analysis, shares and explains the results, and seeks agreement on appropriate actions, which can range from simply establishing the LOA to contracting for a full reappraisal.
• Middle ground: All parties share data and participate in diagnostic analyses. They reach a joint decision on the prescriptive phase of the analysis. This level requires the full input and participation of the assessor and assumes a higher skill level.
• Highest level: The assessor, perhaps with the assistance of the county RPTS, performs the diagnostic analyses and reaches a tentative decision concerning follow-up actions. ORPTS confirms the process and accepts the results. This represents the ideal state with the local governments able to conduct independent analyses, interpret results, and determine required actions.

The pre-decisional collaboration (PDC) process

• Guidelines for pre-decisional collaboration
• General PDC analysis schedule
• Reassessment verification documentation
• FVM and PDC presentations (PDF)
  • Overview of the full value measurement process
  • Overview of the market analysis process
  • Overview of the pre-decisional collaboration (PDC) process
  • Confirming the local LOA as the RAR and the equalization rate

ORPTS full value measurement procedures and guidelines

• Market value survey procedure for 2024 state equalization rates (Pub 1362)

Using systematic analysis to determine level of assessment and maintain uniformity

• Level of assessment determination: An owner's manual for maintaining uniformity

In addition, the International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) has numerous publications, courses, and workshops for assessors that address all aspects of the assessment process. They are available for purchase. The following publications are particularly relevant:

• Assessment practices: Self-evaluation guide (2003)
• Mass appraisal of real property (2000)
• Standard on mass appraisal of real property (2002)
• Standard on ratio studies (1999, under revision)