·         Buying Property:

It is a good idea to contact an appraiser BEFORE you buy property. Buyers often allow emotions to influence their decisions when buying property for lifestyle or investment. An appraiser can provide an unbiased opinion of value and prevent paying an inflated price.

·         Selling Property:

An appraiser researches the market area in which your property is located and can determine a value before you place it on the market for sale. Real estate brokers often will suggest a value, which makes their job easier. Remember, you can always reduce the price for a willing buyer, but it is very difficult to raise the price after negotiations have started. 

·         Mortgage Application:

A Mortgage Lender is required to ensure that the property is sufficient collateral for the mortgage they are issuing. We work with many large national and local lenders who issue mortgages on both residential and commercial properties.

·         Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI):

PMI protects a lender against loss on homes purchased with a down payment of less than 20 percent. An appraisal can be submitted to the mortgage company to show that the value of the home has increased over time and now the equity represents 20% or more sufficient to allow the removal of the PMI.

·         Dissolution:

An appraisal is often needed to help settle disputes regarding the value of a home during settlement proceedings in a divorce or other partnership breakup.

·         Estate Settlement:

Accountants and/or the IRS may require an appraisal to value property in an estate, as of the date of death, to allow for settlement of the estate.

·         Real Estate Tax Reduction:

If an owner disputes the assessed valuation of their property an appraisal can be used to show a lower value and potentially reduce the real estate taxes.