Everything is bigger in Texas—including property taxes. While we benefit from having no state income tax, Texas property tax rates are among the highest in the country. Fortunately, as stewards of our state’s valuable open spaces, rural landowners have access to powerful tax incentives designed to significantly reduce their tax burden. At Braun & Gresham, our attorneys are experienced in maximizing these tax-saving opportunities for our clients. We don’t just apply the law—we innovate and advocate to ensure you receive the full benefits available to you.
As a general rule, we do not handle residential appraisals and issues with the market value of your home. Our expertise is working with rural landowners and rural developers handling every aspect of 1-d-1 special valuations, commonly, but incorrectly, known as an “ag exemption” or a “wildlife exemption”.
Property Tax for Landowners
Texas rural landowners have the ability to take advantage of programs aimed at lowering their property taxes. The state legislature created special tax incentives, commonly referred to as a “1-d-1 valuation” to encourage landowners to preserve open space, with over a million Texas property owners currently claiming these benefits.
The attorneys at Braun & Gresham specialize in:
- Advising landowners on obtaining and maintaining their Ag or Wildlife Management 1-d-1 Open Space Valuation and other special land-based tax savings.
- Assisting with negotiating and protesting the loss of Ag or Wildlife Management 1-d-1 Open Space Valuation and other special land-based tax treatment.
- Ensuring fair treatment and application of the state 1-d-1 laws by taxing authorities and appraisal districts.
- Appeal of appraisal review board decisions to district courts for rural landowners and rural developers.
- Working with developers to manage land use and valuations to minimize tax impact over time.
We know the rules—and how to use them to your advantage
Special Tax Appraisals for Rural Landowners
Texas law provides property tax relief for certain land uses. If your land qualifies, you may be eligible for significantly reduced tax rates under these special-use categories:
- Agricultural (Ag) Use
- Wildlife Management
- Ecological Laboratory
- Timber Use
- Exotic Game Management
- Recreational, Park, or Scenic Use (Private Land)
- Charitable Exemptions
- Endangered Species Conservation
Protecting Your Rights as a Landowner
Even if you already benefit from these exemptions, Braun & Gresham can help ensure you are being taxed fairly.
We recommend you ensure both your special use valuation and special exemption are accurate on an annual basis. If they are not, you have the right to protest or appeal. Working with the county tax appraisers and other tax professionals, our team can thoroughly assess your situation and develop innovative solutions to protect your land, your legacy, and your financial well-being.
Property Tax Appeals
Property Tax Appeal Process: How Braun & Gresham Protects Your Rights
If you believe your property has lost its special valuation or tax status, a protest may be the only way to regain the special status and tax benefit —but navigating the process alone can be overwhelming. At Braun & Gresham, our experienced attorneys guide landowners through every step of the protest process, ensuring the best possible outcome while minimizing stress and uncertainty.
In some situations, the protest may require an appeal. Braun & Gresham has experience bringing appeals at the district court level and working with landowners to get a fair settlement or bring a case to trial. It is our goal to resolve property tax disputes efficiently and in a way that meets the needs of each individual landowner.
Why Choose Braun & Gresham for Your Property Tax Appeal?
Property tax appeals require specialized legal expertise, strategic negotiation, and a deep working knowledge of appraisal district procedures. Our attorneys bring decades of experience, innovative solutions, and a commitment to protecting Texas landowners.
Don’t let an unfair denial or treatment go unchallenged. If you have received a denial or are curious about how you can take advantage of the special tax status available for rural landowners, contact Braun & Gresham
