Property Transfer Examiner

Description

Under general supervision, to perform title examinations, to make legal determinations on the reappraisability of property, and to provide technical information on the subject of reappraisability.

Typical Tasks

• Researches the title of recorded and unrecorded documents to determine the reappraisability of complex property transactions;
• Interprets and applies sections of the Revenue and Taxation Code to determine reappraisability of changes in ownership and implements Departmental procedures accordingly;
• Maintains communication and personal contact with other divisions of the Assessor's Office, other agencies, title companies, the public, private attorneys and interested parties, to coordinate various title functions and to resolve discrepancies or conflicts in recorded property documents;
• Researches, prepares and presents appeals before the Appeals Board or hearing officer;
• Answers inquiries concerning changes in ownership and reappraisable transfers;
• Clarifies conflicting ownership information by searching Assessor's and Recorder's records;
• Researches and resolves tax billing problems;
• May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker, as required;
• Performs related work as required.
  
  

Employment Standards

Sufficient education, training and experience to demonstrate the ability to perform the above tasks and the attainment of the knowledge and abilities listed below.

Training and Experience Note: Training and experience equivalent to possession of a high school diploma or equivalent, and two years of experience in an Assessor's Office, Title Company, or Financial Institution with responsibilities that include processing recordable documents related to real property transactions or other property documents relevant to change of ownership

-OR-

Two years of experience in real estate sales or property appraisal;

-OR-

Certification as a paralegal technician and one year of experience in property law or a related legal discipline.

Special Requirements

• Eligible for California State Board of Equalization temporary certification as an assessment analyst for property tax purposes.
• Must successfully complete the California State Board of Equalization training program and pass the certification examination within one year from the time the employee is granted temporary certification or vacate the position.
  
  

Knowledge of:

• Practices and procedures for determining reappraisal status in cases of property transfers, including complex transactions such as those involving trust and partnerships;
• Methods and terminology used in the process of title searching and in the examination of land titles and title clearance;
• Methods of describing real property;
• Revenue and Taxation Code, interpretations of the State Board of Equalization and other laws, regulations, and documents relating to the work of the unit;
• Assessor's source documents, data files, data processing control procedures;
  
  

Ability to:

• Read and interpret titles, property descriptions, and related documents;
• Interpret and apply legal and procedural provisions relating to real property descriptions and transactions;
• Review and interpret title encumbrances and transfers;
• Independently interpret and apply legal and procedural provisions relating to reconciling title problems;
• Communicate effectively;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, the public and outside agencies;
• Work under pressure.