To the editor:

   (Plain Press September 2024) As someone who worked for 25 years in the mortgage industry {the last 10 years in underwriting} I find it appalling that Cuyahoga County determines property values in such an arbitrary and capricious manner.

LETTER

   Part of my responsibility was reviewing appraisals whether it be for a purchase or refinance transaction. The same principle in determining value for property taxes is applied here. Comparables {or Comps} refer to properties that closely resemble each other in terms of square footage, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, age etc. The rule required the comps to be no further than a half mile to one mile away with recent sales within six months to one year ago.

   Unless something has changed dramatically in the industry it appears the citizens of Cuyahoga County have been hoodwinked. Accordingly, no increase in taxation without proper representation.

Joe Bialek