Of course Alameda County does not want homeowners to solicit advice of expert. They are interested in denying applications for revaluation; it makes sense (or dollars) for the county. I should know, they denied my application and now I am appealing the decision. So far 3 months in and no resolution, even though I can show comparable sell prices should bring my assessment value down by 140K., thus refunding appx 1300.00 (without interest). 95 bucks is a no-brainer. Especially since in the county appeal for they consider the tax assessor as the expert and put the burden of proof on the applicant. Have you ever seen the movie "The Client' where insurance SOP is to deny the claim! Makes me wonder.....