Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a real estate appraisal?

A real estate appraisal is an unbiased professional opinion of a property’s value. It is typically required for purposes such as buying or selling a home, refinancing, or obtaining a mortgage. The appraiser evaluates the property based on various factors including its size, location, condition, and comparable property sales.

Appraisals are often needed to determine a property's fair market value for transactions like buying or selling a home, securing a mortgage, or refinancing. Lenders use appraisals to ensure that the property is worth the amount being loaned.

The process of performing the appraisal typically takes a few hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property. After the inspection, it usually takes a few days to compile the data and generate the final appraisal report.

During the inspection, the appraiser will visit your property and assess its condition, size, layout, and features. They will also look at comparable properties in the area to determine market value. You don't need to do anything special, but having the property accessible and clean can help the process go smoothly.

The appraiser considers multiple factors when determining value, including the home’s condition, location, size, age, and amenities. They also review recent sales of comparable properties (comps) in the area, and may account for market trends, local demand, and economic conditions.

A home appraisal is an evaluation of a property’s market value, while a home inspection is a detailed review of the property's condition. An inspection focuses on structural, mechanical, and safety concerns, but it doesn't determine market value. Both are important, but they serve different purposes.

No, appraisers are required to be impartial and base their evaluations solely on facts and data. However, providing accurate and helpful information, such as recent renovations, upgrades, or repairs, can assist the appraiser in making a more informed assessment.

If your appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price or loan amount, it may affect your ability to secure financing. In such cases, you may need to renegotiate the price with the seller, come up with a larger down payment, or challenge the appraisal with the lender if there are valid concerns.

The cost of an appraisal can vary based on the size, location, and complexity of the property, as well as the type of appraisal needed. On average, a residential appraisal can range from $400 to $600+, though fees may vary. It’s always a good idea to request a quote before scheduling an appointment.

While the appraiser will handle the majority of the work, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

• Ensure the property is accessible (e.g., unlock gates, provide access to attics or basements).
• Make sure the property is clean and well-maintained.
• Provide the appraiser with any information about recent renovations or upgrades.
• Have a list of comparable homes in the area, if available, to share with the appraiser.

No, appraisals are typically valid for a specific purpose and are not transferable. If you are using an appraisal for a different transaction (e.g., refinancing or a different sale), a new appraisal will generally be required.

Market value is determined by analyzing the sale prices of comparable properties (comps) in the area. The appraiser will also consider factors such as the condition of the home, its location, the current real estate market, and any unique features or improvements.

Typically, you will receive your appraisal report within 3 to 7 business days after the inspection. However, depending on the complexity of the property and market conditions, it may take longer. If you have an urgent need, you can ask for expedited services.

If you disagree with the appraisal, you can ask for a reconsideration of value. You’ll need to provide supporting evidence, such as recent comparable sales or details about the property that may have been overlooked. Your lender can then review this information and decide whether to adjust the valuation.

We provide appraisals for a variety of residential properties, including single-family homes, condos, manufactured homes, new construction, vacant land,  and more. If you’re unsure whether we can appraise your property type, feel free to contact us for clarification.

Currently, we specialize in residential appraisals, but if you're looking for commercial or investment property appraisals, we can recommend trusted professionals who specialize in that area.

Simply give us a call or shoot us an email. We will discuss your needs, schedule an inspection, and guide you through the process to ensure everything goes smoothly.

We provide appraisal services in or around York County, SC. We are licensed in SC as well as NC. If you're in York, Chester, or Lancaster County in SC or Mecklenburg or Gaston County in NC, we are happy to assist with your real estate appraisal needs.