What is a home appraisal?

A home appraisal is an unbiased professional opinion of a property's market value. As a licensed appraiser, I conduct a thorough inspection of your property and analyze recent sales of comparable homes in your area, current market trends, and the condition and features of your home.

Why would I need an appraisal?

Common situations include estate settlements, divorce proceedings, tax appeals, removing PMI, pre-listing evaluations, estate planning, trust transfers, and settling disputes between parties.

What's the difference between an appraisal and a home inspection?

A home inspection identifies defects and needed repairs, while an appraisal determines the market value of the property based on condition, location, and comparable sales.

How is an appraisal different from a CMA or Zillow estimate?

An appraisal is performed by a licensed professional who physically inspects the property and applies recognized valuation methods. CMAs and online algorithms (like Zillow) do not include professional interior inspections or meet industry standards for legal/official use.

What happens during the appraisal inspection?

The appraiser examines the interior and exterior, measures the home, takes photographs, notes the quality of construction, and documents upgrades. The process typically takes 30-60 minutes.

How long does the appraisal process take?

The inspection takes 30-60 minutes. You can typically expect to receive the completed appraisal report within 3-7 business days after the inspection.

How should I prepare for the appraisal?

Ensure all areas are accessible (attic, basement, garage), clean/declutter, and prepare a list of recent improvements, upgrades, and relevant documents like floor plans or permits.

Do I need to be home during the appraisal?

You don't necessarily need to be present, but someone must be available to provide access. Most homeowners prefer to be present initially to unlock doors and answer questions.

What factors affect my home's appraised value?

Key factors include location, size (square footage), lot size, age, condition, updates/remodels, quality of construction, and recent sales prices of similar homes (comparables).

What are 'comparable sales' and how are they selected?

Comparables are recently sold properties similar in size, condition, and location. Adjustments are made for differences between your home and these 'comps' to arrive at an accurate value.

What is a date of death appraisal?

A date of death appraisal establishes the fair market value of a property as of the date the owner passed away, essential for estate taxes and establishing stepped-up basis for heirs.

Why do I need an appraisal for an estate?

They are required for tax returns, help ensure fair distribution among heirs, provide documentation for probate court, and protect executors from liability.

How soon after death should I order an estate appraisal?

It is best to order it sooner to accurately assess condition, though it can be conducted months or even years later using retrospective data.

What if the property condition has changed since the date of death?

The appraiser will use photos, family descriptions, and public records to determine the property's condition specifically on the date of death.

How does a divorce appraisal work?

It provides an independent, unbiased valuation of the marital home so assets can be divided equitably in mediation or court proceedings.

Who orders and pays for the divorce appraisal?

Ideally, it is ordered jointly and the cost is split. Arrangements vary, but the appraiser remains neutral regardless of who pays.

What if we disagree about the appraised value?

Parties can discuss concerns with the appraiser, obtain a second appraisal for comparison, or have a court order an additional independent valuation.

Can the appraisal be used in court?

Yes, appraisals from licensed appraisers that comply with USPAP standards are regularly used as evidence in divorce proceedings.

How much does an appraisal cost?

A typical single-family residential appraisal in the Portland area ranges from $400 to $700, though larger or complex properties may cost more.

Payment is typically due at the time of inspection or shortly before report delivery. Flexible arrangements can be made for estate and divorce cases.

Is the fee negotiable or refundable?

Fees are generally non-negotiable as they are based on the work required. They are typically non-refundable once the appraisal work has begun.

What will the appraisal report include?

It includes a property description, photos, site map, value determination, comparable sales analysis, market trends, and appraiser credentials (usually 20-40+ pages).

How long is the appraisal valid?

It is generally considered reliable for 3-6 months, though it specifically reflects the value as of the 'effective date' stated in the report.

Can I share the appraisal report with others?

As the client, you can share it with attorneys, heirs, or the IRS, but it should not be publicly posted online without consulting the appraiser.

What if I disagree with the appraised value?

Contact the appraiser to discuss concerns. If valid new data is provided, it can be addressed. You also have the right to seek a second opinion.

Do you only appraise properties in Portland?

Primary service areas include Multnomah, Clackamas, and Washington counties in the greater Portland metro area.

How does Portland's unique housing market affect appraisals?

Factors like urban growth boundaries, neighborhood walkability, transit access, and historic preservation all impact local property values.

What are your qualifications?

I am a state-licensed/certified residential appraiser adhering to USPAP standards with extensive experience and annual continuing education.

Are you independent and unbiased?

Yes. Appraisers are legally required to be impartial. Fees are never contingent on the property value conclusion.

What standards do you follow?

I follow the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), which ensures appraisals are credible, reliable, and ethical.

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