Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to real estate, we know there are a lot of moving parts and just as many questions.
Whether you’re buying, selling, refinancing, planning an estate, or navigating a legal matter, understanding how the appraisal process works can make every decision feel more straightforward and less stressful. If you don’t see your question here, we’re always happy to talk through your specific situation.
An appraisal is an unbiased professional opinion of a property’s value. It’s based on market data, property condition, location, and other factors.
Appraisals provide an accurate picture of a property’s worth. They’re used for buying, selling, refinancing, estate planning, divorce settlements, litigation, and tax purposes.
A home inspection looks at the condition of the home, while a CMA estimates value for listing purposes. An appraisal is a licensed, regulated opinion of value that lenders, courts, and government agencies rely on.
It depends. For mortgages or refinancing, the lender hires the appraiser. For personal needs (selling, estate planning, etc.), you can hire an appraiser directly.
Appraisers in WV, PA, and MD must be state-licensed or certified, meet strict education and experience requirements, and complete ongoing continuing education.
Not always, but it can help you set a fair asking price and give buyers confidence in the value.
Lenders want to make sure the property is worth the loan amount. It protects both the bank and the buyer.
Yes! Many sellers order an appraisal to better understand their home’s value before putting it on the market.
Yes, an appraisal helps determine the fair market value of property for legal, financial, and tax purposes.
An appraisal provides a neutral, accurate valuation to ensure fair division of property assets.
Yes. If you feel your property is over-assessed, an appraisal can provide the documentation you need to appeal.
Yes. In addition to residential homes, we provide appraisals for vacant land, farms, commercial and industrial properties.
We consider recent comparable sales, the property condition, size, upgrades, lot, location, and current market trends. In some cases, the cost approach is used. For income producing properties the income approach is examined.
Generally, yes. Updates like kitchens, bathrooms, and major repairs often add value, but not always dollar-for-dollar.
Yes, recent sales of similar properties in your area are one of the most important factors in determining value.
Yes, homeowners are welcome to be present during the inspection. It can be helpful if you want to point out upgrades or provide documents.
If that happens, the buyer and seller may renegotiate, or the buyer may need to bring additional funds to closing.
Yes. If you believe there are errors or missing information, you can request a review and provide additional data.