about aopta - the property tax experts
our mission is to demystify the property tax appeal process for california property owners, offering expert representation to minimize taxes and maximize savings.
WHO WE ARE
AOPTA The Property Tax Experts offers intuitive, robust and fully-integrated property tax appeal and optimization solutions. We’re passionate about saving our clients money on property taxes and solving problems that over-burden property owners. Under the guidance and vision of Anthony O’Connor, Owner and Founder, AOPTA is the first “fintech” property tax appeal firm in California. What sets us apart from the rest is our ability to produce results that matter and deliver customized offerings to our clients, as well as cultivate an internal employment environment for our fantastic team of specialists.
In Spring of 2023, AOPTA developed a Search. Click. Return platform named Ytrepo.com specifically designed to take the complication out of property tax appeal. The portal makes it easy for any Californian to “Search” their property, “Click” to see if they are over-paying on property taxes, file for an appeal and let our team “Return” the property tax over-payments.
MEET our TEAM
Anthony O'Connor
Founder & Owner | AOPTA – The Property Tax Experts
Anthony O’Connor is the founder and owner of AOPTA – The Property Tax Experts, a California-based property tax appeals firm specializing in property tax reduction, assessment appeals, and change-of-ownership valuation. With more than two decades of experience in real estate valuation and property tax law, Anthony leads AOPTA in delivering high-impact results to residential, commercial, and multifamily property owners across California.
Under Anthony’s leadership, AOPTA has secured millions in property tax refunds, roll corrections, and assessment reductions under Proposition 8 and Proposition 13. He is especially adept at complex change-of-ownership cases, reassessments, and Prop 19 applications. His strategic insight and dedication help clients navigate California’s property tax system and maximize savings.
Known for his integrity, technical acuity, and client-centric approach, Anthony combines deep knowledge of market valuation, tax law, and appeals procedures. He heads the AOPTA team with the mission of making property tax appeals transparent, just, and accessible for all property owners in California.
Carl Galvez
Operations Manager
As Operations Manager, Carl Galvez ensures that AOPTA’s property tax appeals workflow is seamless, accurate, and client-focused. He coordinates all internal operations including document management, client communications, case tracking, and quality control. Carl’s systems-driven mindset helps streamline the appeals process from initial intake through appeal filing and follow-up.
By overseeing data verification, report scheduling, and internal audits, Carl plays a critical role in maintaining AOPTA’s reputation for reliability, professionalism, and responsiveness. His work helps free the legal and valuation teams to focus on applying technical expertise to each client’s case.
Marlon Llanes, J.D.
Change of Ownership Specialist
Marlon Llanes brings a sharp legal mind and analytical focus to resolving property tax reassessments triggered by complex change-of-ownership events. A graduate of UCLA (Psychology) and Loyola Law School (Juris Doctor), his legal education enhances his capacity to interpret title chains, transfer documents, and assessor records with precision.
Although Marlon does not practice law in California, he uses his legal training to specialize in reassessments tied to parent-child transfers, trust distributions, estate settlements, and entity restructures. He helps clients who face reassessment under Prop 19, change-of-ownership rules, or exclusions understand their path and defend their interests.
Known for clarity, thoroughness, and strategic thinking, Marlon is trusted by both property owners and attorneys. His role strengthens AOPTA’s ability to interpret the most technical tax law issues and integrate them into robust appeals strategies.
Francisco Ursulo
Licensed Real Estate Broker | Senior Valuation Analyst
Francisco Ursulo is a licensed real estate broker and senior valuation analyst serving the Southern California property market. Since 2014, he has specialized in Broker Price Opinions (BPOs), real estate valuation, and market analysis for residential and multifamily properties. His data-driven evaluations support lenders, asset managers, investors, and property owners in property tax appeals and valuation review.
With deep knowledge of local market trends, property analytics, and regulatory standards, Francisco delivers fair, unbiased opinions of value that align with industry best practices and assessment guidelines. His dedication to detail ensures that each report is credible, defensible, and optimized for appeals.
Whether assisting with portfolio management, pre-listing valuations, or tax appeal support, Francisco’s integrity and precision make him an integral part of AOPTA’s valuation services. His work helps strengthen case arguments and supports optimized outcomes for clients.