Full Service Real Estate Appraisers Over 50 Years Combined Experience

The IRS requires an independent valuation as of the date of a homeowner’s death & sometimes 6 months after. Taxes are owed on any increase in value between the “stepped up basis” determined by the appraisal & when the property sells.

For purchase or refinance, lenders require an appraisal. Most lenders use appraisers from pre-approved lists. Recent requirements are that the water heater be double-strapped, and the home have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

For FHA loans, appraisals require photos of attics and crawl spaces. Utilities must be turned on, and no peeling paint is allowed on homes constructed before 1978. All systems in the home must be working. For example, any garage door opener must be operational.

Private Mortgage Insurance is required when you mortgage a home with a down payment of 10% or less. When your equity increases and the principal mortgage balance is 80% or less of total home value, you can apply to remove PMI. That requires an independent appraisal.