Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions about appraisals, answered clearly.

What is a real estate appraisal?

An appraisal is a professional, unbiased estimate of a property's market value, typically used for legal, financial or decision‑making purposes.

How long does an appraisal take?

The onsite inspection usually takes 30–60 minutes. The full report is typically delivered within 2–3 business days, depending on complexity.

How much does an appraisal cost?

Fees vary based on the property type and complexity. Most standard residential appraisals range from $450 to $650.

What’s included in a divorce appraisal?

It includes a full analysis of the property's market value as of a specific date, using comparable sales and accepted industry methodology. It can be court‑ready if needed.

What is a “date of death” or estate appraisal?

An estate appraisal determines the fair market value of a property as of the decedent’s date of death, often required for probate or trust settlement.

Will the appraiser come inside the home?

Yes. For most full appraisals the appraiser will inspect both the interior and exterior. In some cases, exterior‑only appraisals are allowed.

Can I be present during the appraisal?

Yes. Many homeowners or parties are present during the inspection, and it can be helpful if you have documentation or recent updates to share.

How far back do you go for comparable sales?

Typically, we analyse sales from the past 3–6 months within close proximity. If there are no recent comps, we may expand the date or distance range slightly.

How long is an appraisal report valid?

There’s no fixed expiration, but most appraisals are considered valid for 6–12 months unless the market changes significantly.

Do you share the report with anyone else?

No. The appraisal report is confidential and only shared with the client or those authorised by the client.