The Blog

Flipping houses can be a rewarding way to build wealth, but when it comes to selling the property or refinancing, the appraisal can make or break your return. For real estate investors, navigating an investment property appraisal on a recently renovated home presents unique challenges that go far beyond cosmetic improvements. From skepticism over inflated values to a lack of …

In divorce and estate cases, the real estate appraisal report can have a direct impact on outcomes related to asset division, taxation, and settlement negotiations. For family law attorneys, knowing what to look for in an appraisal report is essential, not only to protect your client’s interests, but also to ensure the valuation holds up to legal scrutiny. Here’s what …

Inheriting a home can be both a gift and a responsibility. While the emotional weight of handling a loved one’s estate is difficult, the legal and financial decisions involved can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding property value. At the center of this process is something called a probate appraisal. Whether you’re the executor, a beneficiary, or …

A low home appraisal can throw a wrench into even the smoothest real estate deal. Whether you’re trying to sell your home, refinance your mortgage, or close on a purchase, the appraised value has the power to make or break the transaction. And when that number comes in lower than expected, it can feel frustrating and confusing, especially if market …

In 2025, sustainability can be a defining factor in how real estate is valued. As buyers place greater importance on energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, appraisers are increasingly factoring green features into a the home appraisal value. A home appraisal today doesn’t just assess square footage and location. It also considers upgrades like solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems, smart thermostats, …

When it comes to buying, selling, or refinancing a home, the appraisal is one of the most critical steps in the process. A home appraisal determines the fair market value of your property and can directly impact your financing, sale price, or equity position. Whether you’re a homeowner preparing for the appraiser’s visit or a buyer wanting to better understand …

In 2025, the housing market continues to spark debate: Are home appraisal prices still overinflated, or is the market simply adjusting after years of turbulence? With mortgage rates remaining elevated and housing supply still constrained, many buyers and sellers are left wondering if property valuations are reflecting true market conditions,  or if appraisals risk being too high or too low. …

Since 2020, remote work has shifted from a temporary solution to a permanent fixture in the American workplace. What began as a pandemic-driven necessity has fundamentally altered where people choose to live — and how much those homes are worth. As remote and hybrid work trends continue into 2025, the divide between suburban and urban home appraisal values has become …

Over the last decade, platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have transformed the way homeowners think about property ownership. What once were strictly primary residences are now potential income generators. But how do short-term rentals impact home appraisals? Can rental income boost your property value, and if so, how do appraisers calculate it? Whether you’re a homeowner considering listing your home …

In a competitive seller’s market, where bidding wars and above-asking-price offers are the norm, it’s easy to assume every home will appraise at or above the agreed purchase price. But even in strong markets, low home appraisals happen—and when they do, they can jeopardize the entire deal. So, why do low appraisals occur when home prices are soaring, and what …