Ohio REALTORS® Secures Major Advocacy Win for Real Estate Brokers!
By Anastasia Kotkovskaya, Director of Advocacy & Research
Ohio REALTORS® is celebrating a major advocacy win that clarifies the rules for licensed real estate brokers and expands homeowners’ ability to access assistance during the initial stage of a property valuation challenge.
The Ohio Supreme Court adopted a rule change clarifying that licensed real estate brokers may represent property owners and tenants before County Boards of Revision in property tax valuation disputes without engaging in the unauthorized practice of law. In other words, the Court has made clear that this service is not classified as the unauthorized practice of law.
Why is this such a big deal for REALTORS®?
When property owners believe their property has been incorrectly valued for tax purposes, they can challenge that valuation before their County Board of Revision. Previously, brokers could assist with filing a valuation complaint but faced restrictions on representing clients during the actual proceedings, leaving many homeowners with fewer options at the very start of a challenge.
With the Court’s clarification that this work is not the unauthorized practice of law, licensed brokers can take that next step and represent their clients throughout the initial Board of Revision process!
Ohio REALTORS® advocated for this change earlier this year, submitting a letter to the Ohio Supreme Court that underscored the importance and value of allowing property owners to choose qualified professionals they know and trust. This clarification gives brokers an opportunity to expand the services they provide while giving property owners more options when navigating property tax valuation disputes.
The rule is officially in effect. You can review the final rule here: Supreme Court Rules for the Government of the Bar of Ohio | Page 148
There are a few important requirements. Before representing a property owner or tenant, both parties must sign an Authorized Representative Disclosure Form, which must be filed with the County Board of Revision. Brokers must also acknowledge that they are not acting as attorneys and cannot file appeals on behalf of their clients. More resources to come, but for now, brokers should review this practice with their own brokerage counsel and principal broker.
Find the form here: County Board of Revision | Authorized Representative Disclosure Form
This is true advocacy in action! Ohio REALTORS® is proud to have helped secure a clear rule confirming that broker representation in this setting is not the unauthorized practice of law. The result is new opportunities for our brokers and greater access for homeowners more choices when challenging their property valuations from trusted real estate professionals who understand the local housing market and can help property owners navigate the process with confidence.
Anastasia Kotkovskaya
Director, Advocacy & Research
Supports Ohio REALTORS®’ legislative, regulatory, and political initiatives at the Ohio Statehouse, conducting public policy research, collaborating with stakeholders, and developing advocacy resources to keep members informed of advocacy efforts. She provides regular legislative updates through Capitol Connections and The Latest Political Buzz, and hosts the Policy Talks podcast to provide insights on key political developments. She also serves as the staff liaison for the Political Advocacy Fund Committee.
Learn more about Anastasia & her role.
