Broward: Technology and homeowner service are the priorities of Broward Property Appraiser Martin Kiar

The property appraiser highlights the modernization of his office, protection against real estate fraud, and the importance of homeowners knowing their rights.

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The Broward County Property Appraiser's Office serves an essential function: determining the value of county properties so that tax authorities can set the taxes necessary to fund public services.

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At the forefront of this responsibility is Martin Kiar, who highlights as one of his main priorities facilitating access for homeowners to exemptions, modernizing appraisal processes, and protecting homes against real estate fraud.

From paper files to a digital office

Over the past 25 years, the office has undergone a significant technological transformation. Property owners can now apply for exemptions online, participate in virtual tours, and access information about their properties digitally.

However, Kiar notes that the program he is particularly proud of is Owner Alert, the notification system that allows owners to receive an email or text message when the office receives a change of ownership notification for their property.

More than 320,000 property owners are registered, and over 104,000 alerts have been sent. The system has also helped authorities investigate real estate fraud cases. According to Kiar, one recent case resulted in a 15-year prison sentence for a defendant identified through the program.

Exemptions and protection for property owners

The office also works to ensure residents receive all the tax exemptions for which they qualify. Homeowners can apply online and receive assistance through the Exemption Express program.

The office is located at 115 S. Andrews Avenue, #111, Fort Lauderdale, and is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm.

Kiar argues that Broward, due to its demographic diversity, requires an administration that treats all property owners fairly, regardless of their origin or economic situation.

How much will a home buyer pay?

One of the biggest challenges for homebuyers is accurately calculating their future tax bill. The Save Our Homes cap that benefited the previous owner is not automatically transferred to the buyer.

To help new homeowners, BCPA offers an online Tax Calculator that allows you to estimate your tax liability using the purchase price and current rates.

Kiar recommends keeping in mind that the estimate does not include non-ad valorem charges, so buyers should review the property's most recent TRIM notice or tax bill.

Real estate values ​​follow the laws, not the trends.

The 2008 housing crisis, the subsequent recovery, and the post-pandemic market boom have produced significant fluctuations in property values.

But, Kiar explains, these changes don't alter the office's methodology. The appraisal is conducted in accordance with Florida law and measures market conditions annually.

In 2025, the office assessed 757,972 parcels and received 25,638 appeals related to Fair Value.

Preliminary values ​​are published in July, and TRIM notices are typically sent out in mid-August. For fiscal year 2026, the deadline to file an appeal with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) is September 18, 2026.

A warning for hurricane-affected homeowners

Homeowners whose homes suffer significant structural damage due to a hurricane or other disaster should contact the office as soon as possible.

Florida law provides for possible reductions in property taxes when a property suffers catastrophic damage and remains uninhabitable for at least 30 days.

More technology in the future?

The office continues to incorporate new technological tools to improve the accuracy of appraisals and streamline the exemption application process. Artificial intelligence and advanced aerial imagery are part of this technological evolution, which can help identify and assess property characteristics more precisely.

Kiar: “Being a property appraiser is the best elected office”

Before assuming her current position, Kiar served six years in the Florida House of Representatives and later on the Broward County Commission.

Although he acknowledges that returning to Tallahassee or seeking another public office could be a possibility, his current priority seems clear: to continue leading the office as long as he has the support of the residents.

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For Kiar, the appeal of the position lies precisely in its direct contact with the community.

“It’s a pleasure to meet so many people we help,” he summarizes.

In an office that 25 years ago relied heavily on paper and today uses digital tools to value properties, process exemptions and combat fraud, the goal remains the same: to protect the homeowner and provide an affordable service to the Broward community.