David Howard

Overview

David Howard is a Principal in Ryan’s Complex Property Tax practice and is based in the Firm’s Vancouver office. With nearly three decades of experience in commercial real estate valuation, assessment review, and property tax appeals, he advises clients on complex property assessment matters across British Columbia. David specializes in retail, office, industrial, and multifamily residential properties, helping organizations manage property tax exposure and navigate complex valuation and appeal processes with clarity and confidence.

An accredited member of the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AACI), David brings extensive expertise in assessment negotiations, appeal hearings, rental arbitrations, lease fee appraisals, and leasehold valuations. He is regularly retained as an expert witness before the Property Assessment Appeal Board, where he provides evidence on assessed value, equity, and related matters. Throughout his career, David has advised on high-profile projects involving municipal acquisitions, redevelopment initiatives, payment-in-lieu-of-tax consulting, and complex industrial valuation disputes. Known for his disciplined analytical approach and practical problem-solving skills, David combines technical valuation expertise with strong advocacy to deliver measurable outcomes for clients across a wide range of commercial real estate matters.

Education and Qualifications

Bachelor of Arts in Urban Geography, Carleton University

Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute (AACI), Appraisal Institute of Canada

Experience and Achievements

Principal, Property Tax Complex, Ryan, Vancouver office

• Advises clients on complex property assessment review and property tax appeal matters

• Provides valuation analysis, appeal strategy, and expert advisory services across multiple property types

• Supports clients in negotiations, hearings, and regulatory proceedings involving complex assessments

Director, Realty Tax Consulting, Altus Group

• Specialized in property assessment appeals, appeal hearings, and expert witness testimony

• Led engagements involving rental arbitrations, lease fee appraisals, and leasehold valuations

• Advised clients on complex commercial real estate valuation matters across British Columbia

Senior Director, Altus Group

• Directed complex property tax consulting engagements and strategic client initiatives

Real Estate Appraiser, BC Assessment

• Conducted valuation and assessment analysis across commercial property portfolios

• Developed foundational expertise in property assessment administration and valuation methodologies