Sean​ ​Acosta,​ ​a​ ​2017​ ​American Academy​ ​Five​ ​Star​ ​Diamond​ ​Award​ ​Winner

Today we are going to take a moment to reflect on our very own Sean Acosta. 

He recently was awarded the ​2017​ ​American Academy​ ​Five​ ​Star​ ​Diamond​ ​Award of Hospitality Sciences​ for P.T.R.C.

You can take a look at Sean and the award video on our Facebook right here.  

What is the American Academy Five Star Diamond Award that Sean won? 

It is an award that the most prestigious professionals strive for and only a few obtain. AAHS is a New York City based business that reviews and bestows awards on hotels, resorts, spas, airlines, cruise lines, automobiles, products, restaurants and chefs. The company was founded in 1949 and was originally a restaurant rating business. You may know of the company most for their International Star Diamond Award.

The mission statement for the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences is "To Search the World for the Finest Hotels, Restaurants, Corporations and Destinations and Reward Excellence with the Prestigious Five Diamond Award." - American Academy. If you're interested in learning more about AAHS, visit their site here. 

Thank you to the board of trustees over at the AAHS for this award and your consideration. 

Sean Acosta was also recently on Fox Business discussing homeowners and their 2018 property taxes, be sure to check him out in action here on YouTube.

The Top 5 Places To Visit In Long Island

New York City is not where everything begins and ends in the state of New York because there is much more as you drive out on Long Island. From sights in the Hamptons to notable buildings in Northport, there's a lot to see in New York's biggest island. Here's at least five places you should visit when you go out there.

The John W. Engeman Theater

Why visit this theater out on Long Island? Aside from some retro touches on the outside and in the lobby, it's been said the productions here are just as fine in quality as those of Broadway. There's a little bar with a piano in the lobby so if you want to enjoy a drink while watching you can. If you'd rather have the Broadway experience without having to meander through traffic to get there or pay a fortune to enjoy it, this is the place to go.

The Old Westbury Gardens

The Old Westbury Gardens are on the grounds of a mansion now turned museum and host some of Long Island's most beautiful landscapes. You can get a guided tour and hear the stories behind the former owner of the property, John S. Phipps who was a wealthy businessman, and his esteemed family. There is so much to see outdoors as well in the acres of gardens, and there's always events happening here.

The Montauk Point Beach And Lighthouse

Another must when you visit Long Island is to see the beautiful beaches of Montauk Point which are a tourist favorite year-round. The lighthouse has shops including a snack bar, and if you want to get a great view of the coast from up where the light shines, you can do that. If you come around the holiday season, you might be lucky enough to see the lighthouse all lit up.

The Roosevelt Home At Sagamore Hill

One of the US's most interesting presidents, Theodore Roosevelt had a home out here in Long Island that he stayed at whenever he was away from the White House. Visitors are greeted with a sign that says "The Great Adventure" and given a good look at some of Teddy's most prized possessions. Roosevelt's grave also happens to be at this site, and you can find even more fun nearby in Oyster Bay.

The Cradle Of Aviation Museum

Just like the National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC and the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, New York also has an exquisite aeronautics museum. The Cradle of Aviation is full of comprehensive flight stories all the way from man's earliest attempts at flight to space travel. If you've got plenty of time to spare and want another to-do on Long Island, this should definitely be on your list.

These are just some places to visit among many in a very picturesque part of the state. You'll also find some great restaurants and hotels with a great view of the ocean that will have you falling in love with Long Island. You definitely can't go wrong when visiting here, so have fun doing so and happy holiday wishes from us here at P.T.R.C. 

10​ ​Tips​ ​to​ ​Lower​ ​Property​ ​Taxes

For most people living on Long Island, property taxes are high and rising. Fortunately, P.T.R.C. can show you many ways to lower your property value and your property tax bill. The following are 10 tips that can help. 

1. Appeal Your Property Tax Assessment

About 60% of all homes have tax bills that are too high. Appealing your property tax bill gives you 30 to 120 days to prove you're being billed too much. Most homeowners that appeal their property tax bill get it reduced.

2. Check Your Property Card For Errors

Your property card list the criteria assessors use to decide the property value of a home. These property cards often contain mistakes. Finding and reporting those errors can reduce your property taxes significantly without needing to file an appeal.

3. Beware Of Adding Rooms Or Buildings

Additions to your home can increase property taxes. Before making additions contact your local tax office to find out how much it will increase your property taxes.

4. Compare Your Home To Similar Ones

Look online at tax bills of your neighbors with similar size and age homes. If your home's tax assessment is much higher, appeal it. Chances are you'll get it lowered.

5. Get All Your Deductions

Make sure you get all the deductions for which you qualify. That includes veterans, senior citizens and any other exemptions. Check the department of taxation website for more discounts.

6. Point Out The Bad

Show the tax assessor your leaky basement and anything else that will lower your property value. This will lower your property tax bill.

7. Hire A Professional

Hire an independent assessor if you think your house is overvalued. A private assessor can cost about $250. Lowering your property value can save you thousands of dollars.

8. Invite The Assessor Inside

Inviting the assessor inside your home usually results in a lower, more accurate property value and tax bill.

9. Limit Curb Appeal Upgrades

Tax assessors give more attractive homes higher property values than ugly ones of comparable size. Putting off cosmetics alterations and physical upgrades until after the assessor leaves will result in a lower tax bill.

10. Do Your Due Diligence

Tax assessors often make mistakes. Check all assessments and tax bills carefully. Finding those errors can reduce your property taxes significantly.

P.T.R.C. has used these tips and other techniques to save Long Island homeowners lots of money. Visit our site to learn more. http://www.ptrc.com/ 

Unique Christmas Tree Decoration Ideas

Some New Ideas For Decorating Your Christmas Tree

Amidst all the ebbs and flows of the holiday season, you don't want to forget to get your tree and decorate it. You don't have to be an artist to decorate a tree; you can just go with what you feel fits. If you've never decorated one before or you want something other than the bland themes you've been doing, we have some ideas for you at P.T.R.C.

A Santa Tree

If you really want a little Ho Ho Ho in your Christmas celebration and love jolly old St. Nick, why not dedicate a tree to him? These kind of trees usually feature a lot of red and white ornaments such as snowmen, reindeer, candy canes, small jingle bells and a Santa hat on top of it. it goes even better with Santa stockings hung near it.

A Candle Tree

If you want a tree that includes a lot of ribbons and candles, this kind of tree can really give your Christmas spirit a warm look. Now you may be better off using electric lights that have a candle look to them, or else just put candles on with the lights that won't be lit, and that's for home safety reasons. If you are going to light them, you'd probably better watch them closely.

A Red Frame Tree

This tree has an assortment of paper ornaments that give it quite a unique look. It's mainly wrapped in garland and hanging from it are a lot of picture frames and even some ornaments with patriotic themes on them. This kind of tree is a good one if you like making your Christmas look a little commemorative.

A Three Kings Tree

If you like giving your tree a bit of a religious theme, you might the three kings style. This uses royal colors of purple, blue and gold in the tree balls and also has golden wrappings. It usually has an angel or a spire on top of it.

There are so many themes you can give your tree that it would be a shame to just let it sit in an undecorated state. Sometimes you just need one ornament here or there to get started decorating, and you can usually do it in about an hour or less. So make sure you take the time to give your tree a beautiful look, and from all of us here at P.T.R.C., have a happy holiday.

Turkey Carving Tips From the Pros – 4 Easy Steps!

Happy Thanksgiving from P.T.R.C. Inc. Here are four turkey carving tips you can use this Thanksgiving holiday.

Step 1:

After that delicious bird is hot out of the oven, be sure to cut the string tying the legs if there is one. We don’t want that to wind up on anyone’s plate. Pull the legs away from the body. Cut through the skin and bend back the thigh until the thighbone pops out. Cut at the joint to detach leg completely. 

Step 2:

With the legs now detached, cut between the joints and separate the thighs from the drumsticks. Cut those pieces into slices and they are ready to plate.

Step 3:

Starting from the middle of the bird, keep the blade close to the rib cage, use it as your guide. Slice along each side of the breast plate to remove the meat. When you get to the wings, cut them off at their joints.

Step 4:

After the bird is carved, slice the breasts cross-wide, skin side up, and arrange on the platter.

Happy Thanksgiving from us at P.T.R.C. If you have any questions about filing with P.T.R.C. Inc., we have a friendly customer service team that is here for you.  

Tips to Save On Heating Costs This Winter

Long Island doesn't feel much like an island in the Winter months. We have that typical northeast weather that requires a lot of tea, hot chocolate, sweaters and comfy socks. There are some good aspects of Winter, but one of the worst ones is the cost of heating your home and water. Luckily for you, your friends at P.T.R.C. Inc. are here to save your some money again:

Turn Down the Thermostat

Did you know that every degree on your thermostat is worth about 3% of your overall heating bill? For example, leaving the thermostat at 72°F will have you spending 9% more than leaving it at 69°F. Take this into consideration when your family says they need more heat! 

Bundle Up 

Adding an old sweater or sweatshirt to your in home wardrobe is a great idea to help cut down costs. You don't need to look fabulous for the family, but comfort is key! When you're going to be home for a large portion of the day, don't dress like you're on a Bahamas vacation. 

Upgrade Your System 

A lot of people make the mistake of thinking that repairs are more worth it because of the lower initial cost, but they would be wrong. If your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old, repairs could wind up being a waste of money. You'll repair the fan and then the pilot will break, or something else will falter and the cycle will go on. Consider buying a new high efficiency unit if your old furnace or boiler is on the fence. 

Utilize Fans

During the Winter months your fan should run in a clockwise direction on low speed. This will circulate the warm air throughout your home so your furnace or boiler doesn't have to work as hard. Keeping them running counter-clockwise will have the opposite effect and suck hot air right away from you! 

Once you are done saving on utility bills, you can turn your focus to property taxes! Since 1990, P.T.R.C. Inc. has been handled over 260,000 successful grievances and we are looking to do a lot of the same next season. 

If you have any questions, please call 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com! 

2018 Nassau County Property Reassessment Delayed

Unfortunately, Nassau County properties will not be reassessed early in 2018 as it was originally planned. This delay is great for those who have been filing for reductions and it is the complete opposite for those who have not. They will still be paying for the reductions of others until the reassessment happens:

Make Sure You Get Out and Vote 
In Nassau County and all of America, the only way to get your voice heard is to go out and vote. Regardless of which candidate you support, they are going to support your interests so you need to make your interests known. The property tax issue in Nassau County is a big one, and whichever candidates are elected will have to right the ship! Properties all over the county are being wrongly assessed and it is going to impact the innocent homeowners.

Property Values Are Inaccurate 
Claudia Decker, a Long Beach resident for over 20 years, was told on October 19th that she would have just four weeks to make a $5,000 payment on her property taxes. A rise in school district taxes is largely responsible, but the faulty assessment on her property is more to blame:

• Nassau County put a value of $602,900 on Decker's home. 
• If she had filed under Mangano's program in 2016, her property would have been valued at $390,000. 
• The homeowners who DID file for grievance in 2016 were granted reductions and Decker was left paying for their reductions. 
• Her taxes will go up again next year. 

When Will It Happen? 
The old system left homeowners like Decker paying for the reductions of their neighbors. After investigation, Newsday found that hundreds of properties throughout the county were being wrongfully assessed during Mangano's term. Filing for grievance is important and once this issue is sorted out, P.T.R.C. Inc. will be here to get you the reductions you deserve!

You can go ahead and read more about this delay here!

If you have questions about your property tax reductions, please feel free to reach out to the experts at P.T.R.C. Inc. We have a friendly customer service staff that would love to answer any and all of your concerns.

Call 516/631-484-0654 or email info @ptrc.com! 

Will Home Renovations Raise My Property Taxes?

Your Long Island home might not be large in acreage, but it means everything to you and your family. You want that living space to be utilized to the best of your ability and sometimes that means renovations. Sometimes people fear these upgrades because they think there will be a bump in their property taxes down the road. Is this true? Keep reading to find out:

Increasing Living Space
The general rule of thumb is when you add living space to a home, you increase the value. Examples of this include:

• Adding a Bathroom 
• Extensions 
• Dormers 
• Adding Bedrooms 
• Turning Garage Into Living Space 
• Turning Basement Into Living Space 
• Adding a Deck 
• Increasing the Square Footage of Your Home

Just A Face Lift 
If you are simply renovating a kitchen or bathroom and NOT adding any living space, your home might not need to be reassessed. That is why these types of remodeling projects are so popular! They add value to your home and make it more aesthetically pleasing without raising your taxes. Things can get sticky though when it comes to increasing counter space and making rooms more accessible. These can be considered additions and not alterations and a new property value assessment may be needed.

It Is Okay to Ask
If you are not sure whether a project will increase your property taxes or not, just ask! The contractor may be able to give you this information or the town would be able to help if they can't. If you are adding or altering a portion of your home to compensate for a handicap dependent, your taxes can not legally be raised. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise!

Sometimes the review boards and property assessors get the value wrong and that is where we come in. We use a Comparative Market Analysis to get the real value of your home and if it is too high, we will earn you the necessary reductions. P.T.R.C. Inc. has been doing this for nearly 30 years and we have been extremely successful.

Fill out an application on our website to grieve your property taxes or email info@ptrc.com with any questions!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Filing a Property Tax Grievance in Nassau County

Nassau County homeowners need to start preparing their applications for the 2019 filing period before the madness of the holidays sets in. Once Halloween ends, we start on the crash course for Thanksgiving and time starts to fly right after that. Get your applications in sooner rather than later! 

Step 1: Submit Your Application

• Go to our website and fill out an application so we can better understand your situation. 

Step 2: Assessment Review Commission 

• In Nassau County, the assessment board is called the Assessment Review Commission (ARC). 
• This is the first step in the process and we have had a lot of success here over our nearly 30 years in the business. 

Step 3: Small Claims Assessment Review 

• If you are denied at the board level this is the next place to go. 
• We have been extremely successful here and with our Comparable Market Analysis and skilled staff, we are confident in our ability to earn reductions. 
• If we fail, there will be NO FEE charged! 

Step 4: Court Filing Fee 

• At the Small Claims Assessment Review stage, there will be a $30 fee to purchase an index number which ensures that your case is heard.

Step 5: Receive Your Reduction 

• The reduction can be reflected on your tax bills as the reduced value. 
• You may receive a refund check that can be issued for the over-payment of taxes.
• The final method would be a combination of the two. Some may appear as a reduced rate and the rest will come in a refund check.

Step 6: File Next Year

• This is not a one and done scenario. You can earn reductions year after year if you continue to file with P.T.R.C. Inc. 

If you have never filed with P.T.R.C. Inc. before, we have a friendly customer service team that is ready for all of your questions. 

Call 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com!

What Type of Reductions Can I Expect?

There is no telling exactly how much you will receive in property tax reductions. Every case is unique, and every property and neighborhood comes with different challenges. We have handled over 260,000 assessments through the years and we are ready for your application in the 2019 Filing Period. Here is what you can expect:

How Reductions Work? 
In New York State, your property taxes are assessed on market value and the perceived assessed value of your home. For example, let's say the tax rate in your district is 10% and your home is worth $500,000, you are going to pay $50,000 in property tax. For a $300,000 home it is $30,000, and so on and so forth. You can earn reductions by filing a grievance with P.T.R.C. Inc. and we will handle the rest. Sometimes your properties valued is overestimated and you are paying more in property taxes than you should be!

Our Fee 
The great thing about P.T.R.C. Inc. is we do not get paid unless you do! If the review boards in Nassau or Suffolk County do not grant a reduction, you will not be charged any labor fees. If you do earn a reduction, we take 50% and you keep the rest! That may seem like a lot, but the relationships we have developed in this industry help us succeed more times than not. Success is our middle name here at P.T.R.C. Inc.

Your Neighborhood
There is an awesome tool on our website that lets you research your neighbors properties and look at the reductions they have earned. This helps estimate your reductions and it is great for us to present to review boards when you case comes up. Check it out here!

If you are ready to fill out an application, we have simplified the process for you on our website. Just go to the link and fill in the information and we will be in touch with you shortly.

If you come across any questions, feel free to call 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com!

Why Is P.T.R.C. Inc So Successful?

Success for us comes when our clients are happy and getting their hard earned money back. Success in this field doesn't come easy and we know that first hand. Our almost 30 years in this business have taught us lessons that we apply each and every year and we know the 2019 filing period is going to bring a lot of the same success for our clients: 

Our Payment Structure 

We want to start you off with a little question if we could... Would you work harder if we paid you $100 upfront, or if we said you can earn more based on the job that you do? This is our theory here at P.T.R.C. Inc. We want our talented staff to use all of their abilities to earn our clients the highest possible reduction so they can get their percentage of the reduction. If we don't earn you a reduction, we don't get paid!  

Our Connections 

We have developed relationships over the years with the assessment review boards in both Nassau and Suffolk counties. These relationships help our clients greatly and we are extremely grateful for all the people we get to work with on a daily basis. We have been doing this since 1990 and every year we seem to get better and better. Be sure to grab your piece of the tax reduction pie this year!

Our Staff

Our team has handled over 260,000 assessments over the years and secured millions for our clients. For that reason, we consistently see familiar faces year after year and we continue to see results for people all over Long Island. Getting one reduction is not the end of the line for you! There is money to be made everywhere and our team know exactly where to find it!

If you have never worked with us before, now is a great time to get started! Our team is waiting for your applications and we know that reductions are in your near future. 

Submit your application here and let us know if you have any questions! 

Fun October Activities on Eastern Long Island

The calendar is about to flip to October and that is great news for Long Islanders. This is the best time of year on the island and we want you and your families to get out and play! Here are a few of our favorites:

Riverhead Country Fair
When: October 8th
Where: Riverhead's Main Street

• The 42nd Annual Country Fair will take place on Columbus Day Weekend and it will celebrate the heritage of this amazing town. We have clients all over the Riverhead area and we know they have been looking forward to this for months. Have a great time everyone! 

Fink's Country Farm

When: 9-6 PM

Where: 6242 Middle Country Road, Wading River, NY 11792

• From September 17th until Halloween, Finks is the place to be on Long Island. They have a great corn maze, hayrides with your children's favorite characters and a bouncy castle. Perfect for all the young families on Long Island! 

Windy Acres Farm 

When: 9-6 PM

Where: 3810 Middle Country Road, Calverton, NY 11933

• Windy Acres farm provides the freshest produce you can find, as well as preserves, syrups, and honey. When in season, you can pick your own strawberries, apples, pumpkins, raspberries, peaches, and more!

27th Annual Halloween Boat Burning 

When: October 27th 

Where: Long Island Maritime Museum ( West Sayville) 

• This is the best way to kick off Halloween Weekend on Long Island. Share in some rich history and enjoy time with friends and neighbors on what we hope is a BEAUTIFUL Friday evening. Rain date is October 28th! 

Please share your amazing Fall photos with us on our Facebook page! 

A Breakdown of the Tax Grievance Process

It's property tax time here on Long Island and we are already seeing a heavy influx of applications for this time of year. The word is out on P.T.R.C. Inc. and everyone wants their piece of the pie. Be sure to use the following steps when submitting your application:

Do Your Research 
When you are painting your house, the first concern that comes to mind is finding someone who is qualified for the job. The second concern is probably the fees that are included. When it comes to tax reductions, we assume you probably have a fairly similar evaluation process. As for our qualifications, P.T.R.C. Inc. has been reducing Long Island property taxes since 1990 and we have secured over 260,000 successful assessments! As for the price, we charge NO FEE if you aren't granted a reduction.

Submit Your Application 

• Go to our website and submit your application. 

• Once you are done, you will receive a confirmation email from our team to let you know we have received your application. 

• Your application will start in the review boards and if we can't get a reduction there, we will go to the Small Claims Assessment Review for appeals. 

• We will stop at nothing to get you the highest possible reductions! 

Plan What to Do With Your Reductions
We have been successful in securing millions of dollars for our clients over the years and this season is going to be no different. Whether it is a few hundred or a few thousand dollars, there is plenty to do with the money. You can save and invest. You can splurge on some great additions to your home. Or you could go on a nice vacation. Whatever you choose, just remember who got you those reductions when it comes time to file next season!

If you want to learn more about P.T.R.C. Inc. and what we do for our clients, visit the about section on our website. We also have an area where you can see testimonials from clients that we have helped in the past!

With questions, call 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com!

Big Savings for Nassau County Homeowners

When it comes to lowering property taxes on Long Island, there is only one name you can trust-- P.T.R.C. Inc! We have been in the business since 1990 and over that time we have helped people just like you with their outrageous property taxes. Our rule of thumb is; if you think you are overspending, you probably are!

Are You Over Paying? 
The answer to this question is most likely yes. Long Islanders pay some of the highest property taxes in the whole country because of the public school system and property value. What happens a lot is that when the tax rates change, property taxes may not adjust with it and that is where we come in! We want to get you and your family the lowest possible rate allowed by law.

Important Information

• Property taxes should be reviewed on an annual basis! 
• There is NO reason to fear a tax increase. Your taxes will not go up because of this process. 
• Some homeowners are even overpaying by thousands of dollars a year. 
• Municipalities like Nassau and Suffolk County will only accept grievances ONCE per year. 

No Reduction= No Fee 
Our team of experts comes at no cost to you! We get paid based off of a percentage of your reductions so we are motivated to get you the maximum possible reduction. If your grievance makes it to the Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR) there will be a $30 Fee to ensure your claim is heard. We have been very successful at this stage of the process and we have secured MILLIONS of dollars in reductions for your neighbors... so why not for you?

If you are interested in filing a grievance, we have made it fast and easy for you via our website. Everything you need is right there for you and we look forward to lowering your taxes this season.

If there are any further questions, call 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com!

Tips to Simplify the Morning Routine

So you want to get out the door at the same time everyday but you don't want to get up any earlier than necessary. How do you accomplish this seemingly impossible feat? The answer is with organization and preparation, kind of like your property taxes! Planning ahead is always your best option»

Think Ahead With Breakfast 

Breakfast is an extremely important meal, but who has time to cook one in the morning? The best thing to do is cut up fruit over the weekend and add that fruit to a waffle, oatmeal or something you can make quickly. It keeps the breakfast meal nutritious but it doesn't force you to get up any earlier! 

Avoid That Snooze Button 

Snoozing your alarm clock always seems like a good idea at the time, but for some reason it never turns out that way. You become more frazzled as a result and then nobody is happy-- especially your boss! Try charging your phone in an outlet that is far away from your bed so that you get to sleep quicker and you actually have to get out of bed if you were going to turn off the alarm. 

Let the Sun Help 

It might be irritating at first, but the first thing you do in the morning should be to open your blinds. If it is a cloudy day, flick on the light to shock your senses! 

Groove Right Through

Having a radio system that is cued to turn on at a certain time is a great way to wake up the house. Music is proven to release positive hormones which also help wake you up from a deep sleep. Tunes also offer a great way to start the day and put you in the right mood for success. 

 

Organize Important Items

Make sure your keys and wallet are in the same place, and make sure this place is easy to find. There is no time to waste on your way out the door and hunting down these items can certainly waste a lot of time.

Now that you have so much extra time, maybe you can fill out your tax grievance application this weekend! We have successfully handled over 260,000 assessments and we want you to add to that number. Let's lower your taxes together! 

If you have any questions, call 516/631- 484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com!

The 2019 Filing Period Has Begun

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

School is back underway, September weather has started to roll in, and you know what that means! It's time to file for tax grievance on Long Island and there is only one place to get your maximum reductions-- PTRC! Our team is eager to get started, but first, we will need you to take the necessary steps to submit your application»

Submit Your Application 

• Go to our website and submit your application. 
• Once you are done, you will receive a confirmation email from our team to let you know we have received your application. 
• Your application will start in the review boards and if we can't get a reduction there, we will go to the Small Claims Assessment Review for appeals. 
• We will stop at nothing to get you the highest possible reductions! 

Get the PTRC Difference 

We have been in business since 1990 and we have successfully reduced over 260,000 assessments during that time. When the review boards see our name, they know reductions are coming! We have helped families just like yours lower their property taxes to the LOWEST number allowed by law. We only get paid if you do, so our motivation is true! 

Earn Your Reductions

When it is time to get compensated for your reductions, it will come in one of two ways:

• The reduction can be reflected on your tax bills in which case you would pay your taxes based on the lowered assessed value and thus no refund will be due you.
• Another method would be that a refund check can be issued for any overpayment of taxes as a result of the reduction.
•  An additional method can be that a partial adjustment in your assessed value and a partial refund can be issued. A number of factors can influence the method in which the different municipalities reflect/adjust your property tax bill each municipality and reduction can be unique.

Here at P.T.R.C. Inc., we are here to serve you in the best possible fashion. There is NO FEE to file a grievance, and we only get paid if you do. We like to make money too, so let's lower your property taxes together! 

If you have any questions, call 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com!

How to File for Grievance in Nassau County

The calendar will soon flip to September and that means P.T.R.C. Inc. will begin the tax grievance process for yet another season. We have had a very successful past 27 years and over that time, we have reduced over 260,000 assessments for people just like you! It's your turn to file first Nassau County, and here is how you do it:

Step 1: Submit Your Application 

• You should receive a confirmation e-mail once you are submitted. 

Step 2: Assessment Review Commission 

• Our team will represent you in front of the Nassau County review board where we have seen a lot of success. 
• Our relationships in the industry are a great benefit to you at this stage! 

Step 3: Small Claims Assessment Review 

• This is basically the appeals process for claims that are denied at the previous stage. 
• We win a lot of our cases here! 
• A $30 Court Filing Fee is required to purchase an Index Number

Step 4: Comparable Market Analysis

• To win the case here, we will need to provide a comparable analysis that can be used in the appeal process. 

Step 5: Receive Your Reduction 

• The reduction can be reflected on your tax bills based on the new assessed value. 
• You can receive a refund check issued for the over payment of taxes. 
• You can receive a combination of both. 

If you have any questions about the tax grievance process, please call P.T.R.C. Inc. at 516-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com!

What You Need to Know for Back to School Savings

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Here at P.T.R.C. Inc., we are all about savings. Our main priority is helping you save on property taxes, but why not back to school shopping as well? It's that time of year again and there is no need for big spending. You can pick and choose wisely to make sure you limit your trips to the store and reduce the impact on your wallet: 

Don't Jump the Gun 

Children are easily influenced by their friends and by the people around them. If you buy their new backpack, binders or lunch bag too early in the season, there might be a new trend by the time school starts. This will lead to them wanting new gear and if you aren't tough on them, you'll wind up buying more supplies to satisfy their needs. Wait and let them pick out the one they want to avoid these issues. 

Stay on Track 

Make sure you bring your school list to the store and stick to it pretty religiously. Your child might want additions XYZ, but you need to be stern. It's okay to just take care of the basics first and go back later if they need more of something. If a child is given excess school supplies, they'll find a way to burn through them and sometimes less is more! Teach them how to stretch a dollar! 

Hit the Supermarket 

Places like OfficeMax and Staples will often have deals at this time of year, but you'll get the most bang for your buck at the supermarket. The circulars all have school supply savings this time of year and you can get it all done in one place. Don't bother getting the high end brands either, just getting the knock off notebooks and binders can save you close to 20%. 

Big & Bright 

The problem with school supplies like pencils and pens is that they are lost or lent out too frequently. By the end of September, half their stash is gone and you wind up having to go back to the store to buy more. A little pro tip: Buy them a pen or pencil that is a bright color, has a special design or something memorable about it. They will be more likely to hang onto it. Maybe the logo of their favorite team on it? 

Back to school time means shopping time for Mom and Dad! Once it is all said and done, with the clothes and supplies, we know you're not going to like the bill anyway. So why not get that money back with property tax reductions? 

To file a grievance, visit us on the web or call 516/631-484-0654! 

Tips to Keep Your Backyard BBQ Pest-Free

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Bugs are an unfortunate part of Summer, especially at this time of year when they have all reproduced and matured. They are likely already in your yard, so there is no reason to entice them even more. Try implementing these tips to help lock down your personal space:

Bug Repellent Sunscreen 
While sunscreen is important and necessary, it is also not the best in terms of pest control. You can add sunscreen and mosquito repellent, but then you are adding so many chemicals to your skin that are going to dry it out. Next time you are looking to SPF, try adding a little lemon eucalyptus oil and mix it in your hands. It actually hydrates your skin and keeps the bugs away!

Use Plate Covers 
Mosquitoes and bugs love a good salty/sweet meal to end their day. Their sense of smell is keen and mosquitoes from miles away can smell a meal like burgers and hot dogs and all congregate to get their share. You have to deny them! Check out these cool plate covers and see how they work for you!

Cover Your Trash Bins

• Your trash bins can not only be confined by their lids. 
• A full grown raccoon can knock over a trash bin with ease and then it will be open season on your leftovers. 
• Take a bungee cord and stretch it across the top of your lid feeding it through the hole. If the hole in the lid is not big enough, just cut it open more with a pocket knife. 
• Wrap the ends around the handles enough times so that it is completely taut. 
• Knock your trash bin over while it is empty to make sure your rope is tight enough. 

Clean Up Immediately 
The time to clean up is IMMEDIATELY after you are done eating! Bring an empty trash bin out to your outdoor table and throw everything away once you have finished your plate. The longer it sits, the more time the mosquitoes have to swarm. After you clean the table, wipe it down with WINDEX to eliminate spills and stains that could cause problems later on.

Bugs are annoying, but so are property taxes! Reduce your bug problems and property taxes with some help from the professionals at P.T.R.C. Inc. We'll give you a fly swatter with your reduction check!

Don't Forget About Tax Reductions

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

The Summer can be a distracting time. The kids need to be driven all over the place, the vacations set you back and the weather can make you lose track of time. This is completely normal, but once August starts to come to an end, property taxes need to come to the forefront. Here on Long Island, we are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to file for grievance and get our taxes reduced by the county. Here is how P.T.R.C. Inc. can help with that process: 

P.T.R.C. Advantage 

• We have been in business for almost thirty years and the relationships and experience we have accrued are truly invaluable. 
• We have handled almost a quarter million assessments over our time in business. 
• We have secured over 1 million dollars in reductions for our clients. 
• We charge NO FEE for failed challenges. We only get paid if you do. 
• We will have you paying the lowest possible rate allowed by law.

How to File 

• Submit an application on our website. 
• We will present your case to the respective board that oversees your county. (Nassau-- Suffolk) 
• If your claim is denied at this level, we will take it to the Small Claims Assessment Review board for an appeal. We are very successful at this level. 
• You will receive your reduction in the form of an altered tax rate, a check for the difference, or a combination of both.

Client Testimonial

"I’m a new homeowner (bought my first house 2 years ago wahoo!!) and decided to try and lower my taxes since during the home buying process I realized how crazy and all over the place taxes were in the same neighborhoods. I decided to send email inquiries to many of the tax reduction companies on Long Island since I had no idea which one to select. I had hired Property Tax Reduction Consultants because I liked how they handled my inquiry. I felt I had some personalized service and that they had answered all of my questions in a timely matter. I just got the results and I am more than pleased. They saved me over $3,000!! I will definitely be using them again and would recommend them to every homeowner." -- Cole M.

If you are interested in earning reductions like the one Cole described here, we can help you in 2017-2018. Our team is eager to get started and we hope you are too! 

Call 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com with any and all questions! 

Save On Air Conditioning Costs With These Tips

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

This Summer has had it's fair share of moderate and hot days that have required the services of your A/C. We would say about 80% of this Summer has been spent with the A/C on and these costs can get expensive. Especially if you're a teacher or someone who is just taking a lot of time off this Summer. If you'd like to find some areas to save, just keep reading and be sure to thank us later:

Strategic Planting

Most of the heat that we feel in our homes is radiating from our roof and then down through our windows as the day goes on. We can block out this heat and cause a lower natural temperature by planting trees strategically throughout your property. According to the U.S Department of Energy, proper planting can increase your A/C efficiency by up to 10%. 

Lower Your Thermostat

Keeping your thermostat at 73°F instead of 70°F can save you up to 9% on your cooling costs. If you plant properly, you’ll likely still be able to sit at a nice comfortable temperature. 

Become a Fan

The key to remaining cool in all areas of your home is the proper use of fans. If you live in a two story home, you should be running fans on your top floor and leaving windows open on the bottom. If you live in a one story home or apartment, you should close windows near the fan and leave windows in other rooms open for circulation. 

Basement Dwelling

Cold air sinks and your basement is also not exposed to direct sunlight-- making it the perfect spot to chill over the summer. We don’t have to tell you this though, just head down to your basement and feel the difference.

Grill Frequently

Cooking on the stove top can raise the average temperature in your home from anywhere between 3-10°F. You don’t want that! It’s way too hot out there already. Take a portable fan out to the grill with you bring a lawn chair and grill up a delicious meal without roasting yourself in the process. 

The school year is approaching faster than you thought and here at P.T.R.C. Inc. that means busy season is around the corner. You can start to expect our reminders in the mail and if you're a repeat customer, we're excited to have you back for another exciting season. Let's get started on savings!

If you're a first time property tax reducer, fill out an application on our website for fast and easy service!

Lawn Care Tips for the End of Summer

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Lawn care is especially important in the late summer because the decisions you make now will carry you into fall. Your neighbors who carry on without acknowledging the heat's impact on their lawns will be dead by October and you'll be thriving! Well, they won't be dead, but their lawns will be! Here are some tips to keep that Long Island lawn clean in late July and August»

Avoid the Crew Cut 

While a nice and cleanly cut lawn is what we strive for, it's better to leave your grass slightly taller in the late summer. Temperatures begin to soar and this leads to rapid evaporation of the water in the soil. Taller grass is not only stronger, but it provides proper shade for the soil to help it retain water! Experts say to add two extra days onto your normal mowing schedule.

Water Early 

Watering is obviously necessary to keep a healthy lawn, but proper watering is often overlooked. If you have a manual or automatic sprinkler, you want to make sure you are running it BEFORE the sun comes up. If you choose to do it too close to noon, much of that water will evaporate before it even reaches the soil. This is a waste of the water you are paying for and it will lead to a dead and dry lawn. 

Dilute the Dog's Mess 

If you're a homeowner that respects your neighbors, you probably clean up after your dog's number two. But did you know that you should clean up after number one as well? On your own property at least... A dog's urine contains acid that can kill your lawn and cause it to look white or brown. When you see your dog lift a leg, let him/her do their business and then just give a quick rinse with the hose to dilute the urine.

Recycle Grass Clippings 

Letting grass clippings lie on the lawn after you finish mowing is an old and effective trick. You the clippings will help your soil retain water, and they will act as fertilizer for growth in the fall. It's really a win win situation if you can deal with the look for a few days. 

When the lawns are covered in snow and starting to frost over, that is when P.T.R.C. Inc. really jumps into action. We start collecting Nassau applications early in the fall and business ramps up as we approach that March deadline. Get your application in early so you know you'll be at the top of the stack.

To fill out an application online, click on this link and let us know if you have any questions! 

Is It Better to Buy or Rent on Long Island?

The decision to buy or rent faces every 20 something year old American at some point in their journey. Renting is obviously more care-free, but it can also set you back financially if you're currently able to start building your equity. A home is an investment. You spend your life in it, and if you're lucky, you'll get greater value for it at the point of sale. Here are some factors to consider in the rent or buy decision»

Factors to Consider

• How Long Do You Plan On Staying? We have this up there first because it is probably the most important factor to consider. Average rent on Long Island and in the five burroughs is between $850-$1100. If you are not looking to stay in this area, or if you envision having a family within the next few years, renting is probably best. You'll dodge a lot of the homeowner fees and save for when it is time to buy your own home. 
• What Deals Are on the Table? This is right below your timetable because it is also VERY important. You might know a realtor or know someone who is selling, and this gives you the ability to skip realtor fees. If you can get a decent home on Long Island for less than $350,000, that is a deal you have to strongly consider. The market seems to be steadily increasing and if you start paying into a mortgage sooner, you'll reap the benefits later. 
• What Are You Looking For? The price of your home really isn't the ONLY factor you should consider. You should also be taking these things into account: 
1. How Much Work Does It Need? 
2. What Are Your Handyman Connections Like? 
3. What Are Property Taxes in the Neighborhood? 
4. How Are the Schools? 
5. What Happens With Your Commute to work? 
• What Is Your Current Situation? The general rule of thumb for a down payment on a home is right around 25-35% of the sale price. So for your typical $400,000 home, you're looking at about a $100,000 down payment. If you don't have that kind of money, which most of us don't you can go lower, but your mortgage payments will be higher in return. That is why saving as a renter or someone who lives with their parents is so vital. Spouses that are also financially responsible won't hurt your situation either. Just something else to consider in the dating game!  

One of the major factors to consider when house hunting is the property taxes in your search area. You can research this on our website and you can start saving with P.T.R.C. Inc. right away! 

If you have any questions, please call 516/631- 484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com. 

Choosing the Proper Deck on Long Island

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

If you were born and raised here on Long Island, you're aware of the lack of space. We still have our backyards, but we need to utilize very inch of space we have if we want to take the barbecues to the next level. A deck is a popular addition that people have been using for years, but it's not as simple as it seems. There are codes, regulations and steep costs that come with adding a structure like this to your home. Here is what you need to know»

Research Your Market 

If cost is your main concern, you're going to love this! An enclosed extension on your home will typically cost anywhere between $150 and $300 per square foot. A deck will only run you about $30 to $40 per square foot which can help you save big! The only issue with a deck is that sometimes the town will give you a hard time about safety regulations and size. To steer clear of problems, head down your block and ask neighbors if you can take a peak at their additions. Size them similarly to what you've seen approved in your community.

Think Long Term 

If you're kids are moving out and the taxes are not feasible for you in the future, leaving Long Island is probably in your long term plans. Try and build or renovate a deck as close to your home's sale as possible. Safety codes are always changing and an old deck can actually hurt the value of a home more than it can help it. Make sure your contractor is accredited and licensed and maybe have the deck inspected to double check before you start showing the home to potential buyers. 

Need Some Shade? 

The obvious issue with building a deck as opposed to an extension is the exposure to elements. You can only use a deck 4-6 months a year and even in those months, you want have any protection from rain. To combat this, some people build physical structures extending from their roof to provide shelter. Others will build a retractable awning, but this is only going to provide shade from the sun and not the rain. Whatever you choose, make sure you get exactly what you want. Don't nickel and dime just to realize you don't like the deck after it is finished. 

If you want a little change up to spice Summer 2017, it's not too late to consider a new deck. If you're going to go through with it, the value of your home will now need to be reassessed. If you use P.T.R.C. Inc. we can make sure you are not being overtaxed by the county! 

If you have any questions about property tax reductions, call P.T.R.C. Inc. at 516/631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com. 

Three Spontaneous Vacations to Take This Weekend

When the calendar flips to July, every American starts their Independence Day preparation. With school letting out and all of the summer camp organization, it can be easy to forget about 4th of July plans.

If you're still looking for some last minute vacation ideas for the summer, try out some of our favorite spots»

Washington D.C

What better to place to celebrate the birth of our nation than the nation's capital? It's about 225 miles from New York City and if you leave at a good time, you can be there in about 4.5 hours with light traffic. The great thing about Washington D.C is that a lot of the tourist attractions are actually free to the public. Whether an art or historical museum is something you crave, there is a good chance it is free of charge. Here are some of the most popular museums in the area: 

• National Air and Space Museum 
• Museum of Natural History
• National Zoo
• Spy Museum

Newport, Rhode Island 

If your familiar with the Vanderbilt family, you know this was one of their favorite places to go on summer vacation. The natural cliffs looking over the sea are breathtaking and the Cliff Walk is every outdoors couple's dream. Their beaches overlook the Rhode Island sound and they are generally very clean and inviting!

Cape May, New Jersey

With about a 3.5 drive from New York City, you can make it to one of New Jersey's most desirable locations. Cape May is the oldest seashore resort and a great place to relax and enjoy summer with your family. The beaches are known for having 'diamonds' or polished quartz that is super fun for the kids to hunt down and collect. Check out all that Cape May has to offer, here!

From all of us here at PTRC, we hope you enjoy your Fourth of July weekend!

And remember, if you have any questions about the tax grievance process, we would be more than happy to help! Just call (516)/(631) 484-0654 or email us at info@ptrc.com and one of our friendly customer service representatives will point you in the right direction.