The Problems with Philadelphia Real Property Assessment Practices and Solutions

For over 30 years, going back to the passage of the new city charter and the city-county consolidation, concerns about Philadelphia’s unsound administration and assessment of property have been raised and solutions have been proposed. Uniform assessment of property will provide the opportunity to examine openly, responsibly, and equitably those who are entitled to tax exemption relief and relief for senior citizens and low income families.

The Economy League’s special study of Philadelphia’s real property assessment practices is not intended either to support or refute specific theories or practices on the calculation of average assessed value or sales price ratios in the taxing district.