I am in Houston......one of the strongest markets in the U.S.

I am thinking of buying a vacant lot, but the appraisal in the HCAD records went from 6,000 in 2008 to 5,000 in 2009.

This is fairly close to the inner city, where all land is increasing in value. Houston has not had any serious issues since the late 1980's.

So why would this land lose value ?
Could it only be because of a brownfield or flood plain issue, or is there something else ?

I know we are allowed to protest appraisal values on structures, but to protest $6,000 down to $5,000 (saving $25 in tax) makes little sense.

What am I missing ?