They can help you understand the market conditions better and get an idea of what rents may look like.

At this point I don't have a buyer's agent, because I'd like to get some idea of what I'm in for before signing with an agent.I've called the local Equalization office for some assistance, but so far no one has returned our calls.

They won't keep up with it properly.

If you do end up needing to go to court I'd suggest stopping by over at the courthouse to watch some cases play out to get a better idea of what to expect and the overall attitude of the court. 

@January Johnson  might have some ideas as well.Who is covering it now?

I myself have not exactly figured out how to properly "package" the lesson to allow for easy fast comprehension by the masses. 

As long as they get paid (which they will) I think they are open to all ideas in and out of the box.The property taxes are set based on a 1950’s rate and if they reset, I’ll have to pay thousands more for every year that I own the home.

No idea why Univest and Spring Garden Lending would even be compared against each other. 

I like your idea about taking advantage of Prop 13.

Giving my tax guy a benefit of doubt, he has known me for 12 years to be a "stable saver" and i think the idea of draining my savings into a new venture that excites me and changing career directions was alarming for him.