Why Get an Appraisal?

Understanding the Value of a Professional Appraisal

A home appraisal provides an independent, expert opinion of a property’s market value. Whether you’re buying, selling, refinancing, or handling legal matters, an appraisal is a key tool to make informed decisions.

Reasons to Get an Appraisal

• Buying a Home: Ensure you’re paying a fair price based on current market data.

• Selling Your Property: Price your home competitively to attract buyers and avoid surprises.

• Refinancing: Confirm your home’s value to qualify for better loan terms.

• Estate Planning: Determine the value of property for inheritance or tax purposes.

• Divorce Settlements: Provide an objective valuation to support fair division of assets.

• Property Tax Appeals: Challenge an assessed value that seems too high.

• Investment Decisions: Understand the potential return on rental or flip properties.

Benefits of a Professional Appraisal

• Unbiased and Independent: Unlike online estimates or agent opinions, appraisals are objective.

• Comprehensive Reporting: Includes detailed property inspection, market analysis, and value explanation.

• Credibility: Lenders, attorneys, and courts rely on professional appraisals.

• Peace of Mind: Helps you make confident financial decisions.

The Three Approaches to Value

How Appraisers Determine Property Value

Appraisers use three primary methods to estimate the market value of a property. Each approach provides a unique perspective and helps ensure a well-rounded valuation.

Sales Comparison Approach

• Compares the subject property to recently sold similar homes (comparable sales or “comps”)

• Adjusts for differences in size, condition, location, and features

• Most commonly used for residential appraisals

• Reflects current market trends and buyer preferences

• Estimates the cost to replace the property with a similar one, minus depreciation

• Considers land value plus the current cost of construction

• Useful for new or unique properties without many comparable sales

• Helps lenders and insurers understand replacement cost

• Based on the income a property generates (typically used for rental or investment properties)

• Calculates value using potential rental income and expenses

• Common for investment and commercial properties

• Assists investors in evaluating property profitability

Cost Approach

Income Approach

Why Use Multiple Approaches?

Combining these approaches provides a more accurate and reliable appraisal by considering different market factors and property characteristics.

Appraiser Jargon Explained

Appraisal

A professional, unbiased estimate of a property’s market value.

GLA (Gross Living Area)

The total finished, heated, above-ground living space of a home. Does not include garages, porches, or unfinished basements.

USPAP

Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice — the ethical and performance standards appraisers follow nationwide.

Comparable Sales (Comps)

Recently sold properties similar to the subject property, used to help determine market value.

Market Value

The most probable price a property should bring in a competitive and open market.

Adjustment

A dollar amount added or subtracted to comparable sales prices to account for differences from the subject property.

FHA Appraisal

An appraisal performed according to Federal Housing Administration guidelines, which includes additional safety and condition checks.

Tax Assessment

A value assigned by the county tax assessor used to calculate property taxes. This is often different from market value.

PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance)

Insurance that protects lenders if a borrower defaults. PMI is usually required if the down payment is less than 20%.

Common Terms You’ll Hear from Your Appraiser

Understanding appraisal terminology can make the process clearer and less confusing. Here are some key terms explained in plain language: