Steve Laas

Principal, Real Property TaxIndirect Tax

Austin

Office

Austin
100 Congress Avenue
Suite 1900
Austin, TX 78701
512.476.0022

Expertise

Indirect Tax

Overview

Steve Laas is a Principal in Ryan’s Real Property Tax practice, specializing in property tax consulting for owners of commercial real estate nationwide. He advises clients on complex valuation matters, helping them manage risk, control costs, and navigate the evolving property tax landscape with confidence. His expertise spans valuation appeals, negotiation, litigation support, due diligence, personal property compliance, and property tax exemptions.

With deep experience across diverse asset classes, including semiconductor manufacturing facilities and corporate campuses, Steve brings rigorous analysis and practical strategy to every engagement. He is known for his disciplined approach, strong technical foundation, and ability to advocate effectively on behalf of clients in high-stakes tax matters. By combining valuation expertise with market insight, Steve helps organizations protect asset value and achieve sustainable property tax outcomes.

Education and Qualifications

Master of Arts, Land Economics and Real Estate, Texas A&M University

Bachelor of Science, Agricultural Economics, Texas A&M University

Licensed Senior Property Tax Consultant, State of Texas

MAI Designee and Member, Appraisal Institute

Experience and Achievements

Principal, Real Property Tax, Ryan, Austin office

  • Advises commercial real estate owners nationwide on valuation appeals, negotiation strategy, and litigation support

  • Provides due diligence and exemption analysis to support acquisitions, development, and portfolio management decisions

  • Leads complex valuation engagements involving specialized and high-value assets

Partner, Morrison & Head, LP

  • Led nationwide property tax consulting engagements

  • Specialized in valuation appeals for complex commercial real estate assets

Director, Duff & Phelps

  • Advised clients on valuation and property tax matters across multiple asset classes

Director, Deloitte Tax

  • Managed property tax consulting engagements within the Property Tax Services practice

Apartment Broker, CB Richard Ellis

Partner; Commercial Real Estate Appraiser, Frederick & Hornsby, Inc.

Commercial Real Estate Appraiser, Southwest Property Consultants

Member, Real Estate Council of Austin

Member, Texas Association of Property Tax Professionals

Former President, Texas Association of Property Tax Professionals