Protested taxes with informal agent. :(

[Lalo Alvidrez]

I recently protested 2 rental properties in person at an informal meeting.  The first was a condo that I was successful in lowering about $13,000.  On the second, which is a duplex, it wasn't as successful. I presented my issues as far as repairs go. I was also asked if I paid more for the property than what it was being appraised for. Which I did but my question is would it be rude to not give them that info? I feel that they will base their decision on that info. Also on the comps, there is an identical duplex right next to mine that was showing appraisal $32k below mine. I pointed it out and all she said was, "We'll need to raise theirs next year". Well I know that the person or llc that owns that property  is a tax service. So I'm pretty sure its a case of who you are. She looked at it and said there was nothing she could do from what she was seeing and didn't change a thing! Now I either accept it or set up a hearing with a committee.  I am thinking of hiring a firm to do it for me but I feel that I'm not going to get anywhere with this since I'm a very small dog in a big dog park.  Switching back to the condo, I found out from a friend that owns one that her appraisal stayed the same from last year. Apparently her property was still under the name of the person she bought if from and they are a big dog in the park.  Just gets under my skin. My question is, who do you recommend for disputing taxes, and do you think I have a chance with that other identical duplex appraising $32k lower than mine?