In 1965, John Q. Ebert introduced the first computer-aided mass appraisal (CAMA) system, transforming the tax assessment profession. With this innovation, assessors could finally determine the market value of every property in a jurisdiction. The assessor’s role evolved from primarily collecting data to becoming analysts.

A similar transformation is happening today, driven by two key technologies: automation and artificial intelligence (AI). Automation minimizes the time assessors spend on administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on engaging with property owners and other government leaders and distribute key information, while AI refines valuation accuracy, enhances forecasting, and strengthens decision-making.

In short, the modern assessor is no longer just a valuation expert but an information broker and advisor.

Automation in Action: Building Permits and CAMA

Automation is already changing the way assessors work. A prime example is the integration between building permit systems and CAMA. Digital permitting systems now transfer permit data instantly, either through an API or by exporting spreadsheets into the CAMA system. Automation scripts keep this information flowing without interruption.

The impact is immediate. Assessors can track and verify new construction and renovations with ease, ensuring property records stay accurate. With up-to-date information, assessors they can calculate new growth more quickly and base valuations on the most current information available.

Gone are outdated records and overlooked property changes. Gone is missed new growth. Current property records and accurate valuations are now in place.

Suddenly, local governments have a clearer understanding of their budgets, can allocate resources more effectively, and can plan for the long term—all thanks to a simple integration between two databases and automation scripts that seamlessly transfer building permit information from the permitting system to the CAMA system with each initialization and update of each building permit.

So, for assessors to be good at their job, automation is key.

AI-Driven Valuation Models: Improving Market Accuracy

Every assessor aims for accuracy in property valuations, ensuring that estimated values reflect actual market conditions. The introduction of CAMA made meaningful statistical analysis possible, allowing assessors to determine property values across their jurisdictions with greater confidence.

Now, AI is taking valuation accuracy to the next level, allowing assessors to identify microtrends in the market at the neighborhood level within large datasets. With AI, assessors can group properties more effectively, refine valuation adjustments, and proactively address discrepancies. Additionally, AI helps assessors anticipate market problems and improve forecasting.

The result? More accurate and equitable assessments, fewer disputes, and increased trust from property owners.

Internally, assessors gain greater influence as the finance department improves its ability to forecast and plan the annual budget with confidence thanks to the increased insight the assessor can provide.

Redefining the Assessor-Property Owner Interaction

AI can also help assessors interact with the public better. Unlike many government officials, assessors interact regularly with the public, making effective communication a crucial part of their role. Technology is reshaping how assessors engage with taxpayers, streamlining interactions and improving access to information.

Key technologies are helping assessors improve engagement with property owners. AI-powered chatbots provide instant answers to common taxpayer questions, reducing backlogs and lightening assessors’ workload. Self-service portals allow property owners to access real-time valuation details, track appeal statuses, and compare their property values to market trends—eliminating the need for frequent calls or in-person visits. Meanwhile, automatically generated brochures and announcements keep property owners informed, ensuring they understand valuation processes, minimizing confusion, and enhancing transparency.

This shift does more than improve efficiency—it redefines the assessor’s role. With fewer disputes and more informed taxpayers, assessors can dedicate their expertise to higher-value tasks, enhancing the accuracy of assessments and reinforcing public trust. More than ever, assessors are seen as knowledgeable advisors rather than bureaucratic gatekeepers, playing an essential role in fair and transparent property taxation.

Conclusion: A Smarter Future for Assessors

The future of tax assessment isn’t just digital—it’s dynamic, efficient, and built on stronger relationships with property owners. Automation and AI are key to enhancing assessors; these technologies allow assessors to elevate their role and to focus on expertise-driven tasks that truly make a difference.

Embracing technology means faster, more accurate valuations, fewer disputes, and a more informed taxpayer base. But most importantly, it positions assessors as leaders in their communities—professionals who don’t just assess property values but build the future of fair and transparent taxation.