Everyone knows that when you purchase a home one of the things that has to be done is an appraisal. You need to make sure you are not paying too much for a home and the bank or mortgage company needs to be sure the price is in line with the value of the property. But did you know there are other important reasons that a licensed and certified real estate professional might be needed?
PURCHASE OF A HOME
When you are looking at homes and getting ready to make that all important offer on your dream home you can give yourself great satisfaction and peace of mind by knowing in advance the value of the property. You can get an objective opinion by using a professional appraiser. A state-licensed apprasier has the experience and training to evaluate the property and give you the information you need to make an informed offer to purchase.
REFINANCING YOUR HOME OR GETTING A HOME EQUITY LOAN
If you need to refinance your home or get a home equity loan for whatever reason it will require an appraisal. Knowing in advance what your property is worth and how much equity you have can help in your decision to consolidate bills, pay college expenses or whatever needs you might have.
PRIVATE MOTGAGE INSURANCE (PMI) REMOVAL
Did you know that the supplemental insurance that you had to pay if you borrowed more than 80% of the value of your home can be removed after the remaining balance you owe falls below that 80% level?
The US Congress passed the Homeowners Protection Act of 1998 that requires lenders to remove the PMI payments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met. We offer a special service to home owners who think they have met the 80% loan-to-value level. For a small fee we can provide you with a statement that you can give to your mortgage company showing the value of your home. Money well spent when your house payments are reduced each month.
DIVORCE SETTLEMENT
When a divorce is looming it can be quite traumatic. It may become necessary to find out the value of the home. Whether the two parties need to sell and split the assets or one party wishes to "buyout" the other's interests, knowing the value of the property by getting an appraisal can help both parties feel better about the transaction.
ESTATE LIQUIDATION
When settling the estate due to the loss of a loved one it often becomes necessary to establish the fair market value of the residential property. The USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) has a provision that binds the appraiser with confidentiality so you can feel confindent of our discretion. When the home or property is the bulk of the estate it is very important to know that true value by getting an appraisal. That way everyone involved will know that final dispensation was handled fairly and equitably.
RELOCATION
When you have to move for your job or other reasons relocating is a difficult task. We go out of our way to set up a convenient time for your appraisal. We encourage you to tell us of any improvements or special features of your home so we can be sure to include those in our appraisal. Be sure to let us know of any listings or sales in your neighborhood that should be considered as well.
HOME IMPROVEMENTS ADD VALUE
When you contemplate selling your home you need to have an accurate idea of what the fair market value of the property is. You may be considering doing some improvements to maximize your investment. Some improvements, such as remodeling the kitchen or bath may increase the value more than others. Before you invest any more money it is a good idea to get an appraisal and discus the value you might add versus what you could expect to get out of the remodel. We can help you decide how to get the best return on your investment.
SELLING A HOME
By using a professinal appraiser to find out the fair market value of your home is a smart idea even before you consider listing with a real estate agent or putting up a for sale sign on your own. An state-licensed appraiser has no vested interest in the outcome of the appraisal, unlike a real estate agent. Our fees are according to the work we do, not the selling price of the home, so you can be assured the appraisal is fair and accurate. Arming yourself with the true market value of your home is a wise decision as you consider the sale of your home.