The Hidden Costs Businesses Rarely Question: Property Tax

Property tax is often one of the largest expenses businesses pay each year—and one of the least scrutinized.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Tax, Dave McGuire sits down with Matthew Barnhill, leader of McGuire Sponsel’s Property Tax Services, to discuss why businesses and CPAs frequently overlook property tax assessments and how that oversight can lead to missed savings opportunities.

The conversation explores how assessors determine property values, why assessed value and market value aren’t always the same, and how changes in property use, business performance, depreciation, deferred maintenance, and property classifications can impact assessments. Matthew also shares practical questions CPAs can ask clients to identify potential opportunities and explains why property tax reviews can be valuable for both growing businesses and those facing operational challenges.

Topics discussed include:

• Why property tax is often an overlooked business expense
• The difference between assessed value and market value
• Common triggers for property tax appeals
• How property classifications impact valuations
• Questions CPAs should ask clients throughout the year
• Why many businesses miss potential savings opportunities
• State-by-state differences in assessment methodologies
• How property tax can become a proactive advisory conversation

For CPA firms looking to expand client value beyond traditional income tax planning, this episode highlights an often-overlooked area where meaningful savings opportunities may exist.

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