SAN ANTONIO -- Have you received your home appraisal yet? If not, you'll soon find out how much the Bexar County Tax Appraisal District said your home is worth.

Notices go out this month, but some homeowners may see a big increase; maybe too high of a jump for a bad economy. So what if you want to file a protest? Would you know how?

For 41 years, Jesse and Estella Tyson have lived in Olmos Park Terrace. They started filing protests with the Bexar County Appraisal District in 1999 and haven't stopped yet.

"We love our neighbors, but it doesn't mean we have to be $100,000 more than their house." said Estella Tyson.

For the Tysons, filing a protest is worth it and they recommend everyone should give it a try. They even helped their elderly neighbors file their protests several years ago.

"The better prepared you are, the better," said Darlene Sullivan of Popp, Gray and Hutcheson, LLP, an Austin law firm that has put together a packet to help homeowners better understand the process of filing a protest. "Deadline is typically by May 31, or 30 days after receiving the appraisal value," said Sullivan.

The process is deadline driven, so don't wait to file. Make sure you check all three boxes on how you plan to argue. You can decide later on your method. Next, go to the Bexar County Appraisal District website and make sure all the information on your home is correct.

"The age, does it have a pool or covered patio and do you have a view?", said Sullivan.

The next step is vital.

"Get a free estimate and bring in as much evidence of work that needs to be done in your home," said Sullivan.

That could include the cost to repaint your home, foundation repairs and the price for a new roof. The Tysons took photos of their home, and even their neighbors homes for proof as to why their home appraisal should be lowered.

"Pictures, pictures, pictures tell the story better than anyone," said Sullivan. "The appraisal district board really appreciates the photos to go along with your story."

The Tysons also recommend you have a script with you to read during the hearing process.

"You will get nervous with everyone in the hearing," said Estelle Tyson.

Don't go into the hearing angry and blaming people, recommend the Tysons. Respect and patience goes along way. The Tysons' new appraisal came in with an increase of $15,000.

Will they protest it?

"Of course we'll fight it," said Estelle Tyson. "Yes."