Reasons to order an appraisal from Appraisal First, Inc.

To a lot of us, an appraisal is simply one more thing in the long list of items for a mortgage or refinance. Even though there are a growing number of automated home valuation methods that may seem cheaper than an appraisal, most lenders still want a local expert because the stakes are very high. Is securing a mortgage the only reason to acquire an appraisal? Are there additional times when the services of a certified, independent real estate professional might be helpful? You bet.

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Challenge your tax assessment in Greene County

If you are in an area where the value of property has depreciated, it's possible you're paying too much in property taxes. When building your case, an appraisal from us is your best evidence. We can assist you in challenging your tax assessment.

Remove PMI to lower your mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an additional insurance policy that nearly all lenders ask homeowners to purchase when the amount being loaned to the homeowner is more than 80% of the actual value of the real estate. More often than not, this added payment is folded into the monthly mortgage payment and is soon forgotten. This is unfortunate because PMI is no longer required when the remaining balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - dips below the 80% mark. In fact, the United States Congress invoked a law in 1998 (the Homeowners Protection Act of 1998) that requires lenders to dismiss the PMI installments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met.

If you'd like to eliminate PMI, Appraisal First, Inc. will give you a statement regarding the value of your home. The cost of the home valuation can often be regained in just a few months because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

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Settle a divorce with fewer hang-ups

A divorce can be an especially daunting ordeal for both parties, and it is often even more complicated by the difficult decision of who maintains the property. It's a good idea to get an appraisal from Appraisal First, Inc. so both parties are completely aware of the true market value of their house, regardless of the situation.

If the parties want to sell the home, they'll have a clearer picture of what price to set. And if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've received a fair evaluation.

Ascertain a fair and accurate valuation for estate liquidation

Losing a loved one is a difficult time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often entails an appraisal to establish Fair Market Value for the residential property involved. The ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) binds us with confidentiality, guaranteeing the utmost degree of discretion.

Most Americans don't have dedicated estate planners or executors to manage these affairs, unlike many wealthy individuals. And since a home or other property often makes up an uneven share of the total estate value, understanding the true value of the real estate at hand is of essential importance to ensuring disputing parties leave knowing they've gotten an honest deal.

Relocate to or from Greene County for work

We understand the headaches involved with an employee relocation. That being said, we take great care in setting up an accommodating appointment time for the appraisal inspection. We encourage relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive characteristics of their property, as well as information about any current sales or listings in their neighborhood that they want considered during our detailed inspection.

Sell your home quickly — for the right price

Whether you choose to sell your home on your own or use the assistance of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal can help you make a better educated decision regarding your asking price. Unlike a real estate agent, an appraiser has no vested interest in what price the house sells for. Our fees aren't a percentage of the sales price, but rather they rest on our efforts to finish the appraisal report.

We analyze the difference in value items like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make on a daily basis. And we're experts in knowing how long homesare on the market. So, getting a professional appraisal is a trusted way to decide what improvements will add value and what a suitable sales price is for your home so you don't come up short or have your house on the market an unnecessarily long time.

Let Appraisal First, Inc. help you sell your home quickly at the right price