What is an appraiser?

An appraiser identifies and provides a value for a piece of property. The report created by a certified real estate appraiser is called an appraisal, and is used to provide real estate valuation in a variety of situations.

Why should I have an appraisal done?

Appraisals are done for many reasons, and can range from estate planning to buying a home to determining value for insurance or tax purposes. The most important factor to be concerned with is choosing an experienced, knowledgeable appraiser for your appraisal.

Why choose a professional appraiser?

Professional, quality appraisals can’t be done in 10 minutes or less, and they are not free. Like any other product or service, you get what you pay for.

How should I choose the right appraiser?

So how do you determine who is a good appraiser? The following link will address five areas to question when looking for an appraiser. Click here to learn more.

What type of appraisal do I need?

It depends on how you plan to use the appraisal after it is performed. Are you planning to file for bankruptcy? Have you inherited land that you want to sell? When you work with one of our expert appraisers, you’ll decide together what property appraisal best suits your needs.

Where can I find a professional appraiser in Georgia?

If you are located in the Atlanta metropolitan area, contact us to be matched with a state certified appraisal expert who can support you in the appraisal process. If you are located outside Atlanta, visit the Association of Georgia Real Estate Appraisers to find a reliable professional in your area.

 

What are some questions to ask potential appraisers?

  • Ask the appraiser about his or her appraisal education, professional designations, and how they qualified for those designations.
  • Ask for references/recommendations from current and former clients.
  • Ask how the appraiser’s experience and/or expertise relates to the particular appraisal you need performed.
  • Ask if they belong to a professional appraisal society and if that society teaches, tests, and accredits.
  • If they belong to a professional society, ask if that society has a mandatory reaccreditation program to ensure their education and knowledge are current.
  • Ask what continuing education the appraiser has undertaken to keep up-to-date in the field.
  • Ask if the appraisal report you will receive is USPAP compliant (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice).
  • Make sure all your fee-related questions are answered before you sign an agreement.
  • Make sure the appraiser explains exactly what your appraisal report will include.