How Much Does an Estate Appraisal Cost in the Atlanta Metro Area?
When a loved one passes, dealing with the legal and financial complexities of an estate can feel overwhelming. One key step in the probate process is obtaining a real estate appraisal to determine the fair market value of the property as of the date of death. If you’re navigating estate settlement in the Atlanta area, understanding what an estate appraisal entails—and how much it typically costs—can help you make informed decisions during a difficult time.
What Is an Estate Appraisal?
An estate appraisal, also called a date of death appraisal, is a formal valuation of a property conducted by a licensed real estate appraiser. This type of appraisal is often required by:
Probate courts
Estate attorneys
CPAs handling estate taxes
Executors or personal representatives
Heirs or beneficiaries
Unlike appraisals used for mortgage lending, estate appraisals are non-lender assignments with a different scope of work. They can be retrospective (valuing the property as of a past date) or current, depending on the situation.
How Much Do Estate Appraisals Cost in Atlanta?
Estate appraisal fees vary depending on several factors:
Property size and complexity
Location within the metro area
Whether the appraisal is current or retrospective
Turnaround time (rush orders may cost more)
In the Atlanta metropolitan area, typical pricing for a standard single-family estate appraisal falls between $400 and $600. More complex properties—such as those with acreage, unique features, or multiple buildings—may cost $700 or more.
If the property needs multiple effective dates (such as both date of death and current market value), this usually involves separate assignments and fees.
You can learn more about our appraisal pricing and services here.
Why Choose a Specialist in Non-Lender Estate Appraisals?
Not all appraisers are familiar with the unique requirements of probate, estate tax filings, or IRS documentation. At REI Valuations, we specialize in non-lender appraisal work, which means:
No bank red tape
Reports designed for legal and tax professionals
Clear, defensible valuation logic
Respectful handling of sensitive, time-critical cases
We’ve assisted families, attorneys, and estate executors throughout Atlanta—including in Fulton, Dekalb, Cobb, and Gwinnett Counties—with accurate and timely appraisals.
Need an Estate Appraisal in Atlanta?
If you’re settling an estate and need an appraisal for probate, IRS reporting, or to assist with selling inherited property, we can help.
Request an estate appraisal today
Or call us directly to speak with a licensed appraiser who understands the sensitivity and importance of this work.
We’ll guide you through the process and deliver a report you—and the court—can rely on.
How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost — And What Do Appraisers Actually Look For?
When you’re preparing to get your home appraised, the first question most homeowners ask is:
“How much is this going to cost me?”
And the second is:
“What exactly does the appraiser look for?”
This guide breaks down both — so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost?
The cost of a home appraisal typically ranges from $350 to $600 in the Atlanta area, but it depends on a few factors:
Property size and complexity — Larger or custom homes take longer to evaluate.
Purpose of the appraisal — Divorce, estate, FSBO, or pre-listing appraisals may have different fee structures.
Turnaround time — Need it in 48 hours? You’ll likely pay a rush fee.
Location — Travel distance and market variability can affect pricing.
At REI Valuations, most of our appraisal assignments fall within the $400–$500 range depending on complexity.
For more details, check out our previous blog:
How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost in Atlanta?
What Do Appraisers Look for During a Home Appraisal?
Appraisers aren’t guessing — they’re following a standardized process to determine fair market value. Here’s what they evaluate:
1.
The Home’s Condition
We inspect the structure, materials, and quality — from roof to foundation. Key things we look at:
Signs of deferred maintenance (peeling paint, cracked windows, leaks)
Quality of finishes (countertops, flooring, cabinetry)
Age and condition of HVAC, roof, and major systems
2.
Functional Layout
We don’t just count bedrooms — we look at how the space flows. A functional layout with a centralized living area, private bedrooms, and a standard floor plan typically supports higher value.
3.
Square Footage (GLA)
Gross Living Area (GLA) is a major factor in valuation. Finished basements may not count the same as above-grade living areas.
4.
Upgrades and Renovations
Renovated kitchens, bathrooms, or energy-efficient systems can increase marketability — but not always dollar-for-dollar.
5.
Comparable Sales (Comps)
We analyze recent, nearby sales of similar homes — adjusting for size, condition, and features — to determine a fair and unbiased opinion of value.
Want a deeper breakdown?
Here’s what to expect during your appraisal walkthrough.
Can You Influence the Appraisal?
You can’t change the market — but you can help the process go smoothly:
Have a clean, accessible property.
Provide a list of improvements made with dates and costs.
Be present to answer questions (but don’t hover).
Related Resources
Need a Professional Appraisal?
Whether you’re going through a divorce, settling an estate, planning a sale, or appealing taxes — we provide independent, impartial appraisals trusted by homeowners across Atlanta.
Local.
Accurate.
Unbiased.
Wondering what appraisers actually look for?
Thinking of Selling Your Home FSBO in Atlanta? Here’s Why You Still Need a Professional Appraisal—Especially in Today’s Market
Selling your home For Sale by Owner (FSBO) in Atlanta can seem like a great way to save on commission—but in today’s real estate market, it’s riskier than ever to price your home without solid data behind you.
With interest rates still high, homes sitting on the market longer, and buyers becoming more selective, having an independent appraisal from a licensed real estate appraiser isn’t just helpful—it can make the entire selling process smoother and more successful.
Why FSBO Sellers Should Consider an Appraisal—Even When They’re Doing Their Homework
When you sell FSBO, you take on many roles: marketer, negotiator, and yes—even pricing strategist. Many FSBO sellers do their research, study comparable sales, and sometimes even consult with local real estate agents for a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).
A professional appraisal doesn’t replace that effort—it complements it.
As licensed appraisers here in Atlanta, we dig deeper by providing:
An unbiased, certified report that buyers and lenders recognize.
Detailed adjustments for location, upgrades, and unique property features.
Local expertise on market trends, neighborhood dynamics, and buyer expectations.
In short, your CMA and your own market research set the stage—but an appraisal helps confirm that your asking price is truly defensible in the current Atlanta market.
Why It Matters Even More in Today’s Atlanta Market
The real estate landscape across metro Atlanta—from Decatur to Buckhead to East Point—has shifted:
Interest rates remain elevated. Buyers are more cautious and quick to question pricing.
Homes are taking longer to sell. Overpricing can make your listing stale, leading to stressful price reductions.
Buyers expect proof of value. A certified appraisal gives you documentation to back up your price, helping avoid last-minute negotiations or failed contracts.
Having a professional, local appraisal on hand gives you and your potential buyers peace of mind—making your FSBO listing stand out in a crowded market.
Local Expertise You Can Rely On
We’re licensed real estate appraisers who know the Atlanta market inside and out—from neighborhood schools to upcoming developments.
By pairing your pricing strategy and CMA with an independent appraisal, you can confidently set a price that’s competitive, realistic, and supported by data.
Ready to list your home FSBO in Atlanta?
Request your professional FSBO appraisal today and sell smarter, not harder.
Contact us here or call us to get started.
If you’re ready to get started, you can request your Pre Listing appraisal here!
Why You Need a Licensed Appraiser for Probate & Estate Appraisals in Atlanta, Georgia !
If you’ve recently lost a loved one and find yourself managing their estate, you might hear the term “probate appraisal” or “estate appraisal.”
For many families in Atlanta, Georgia, this process can feel confusing and overwhelming — especially while you’re still grieving.
As a licensed real estate appraiser in Atlanta, I’d like to break down what probate and estate appraisals are, why they matter, and how they help ensure fairness and peace of mind for everyone involved.
What is a Probate Appraisal?
When someone passes away, their assets — including real estate — often must go through probate, a legal process where the court verifies the will and oversees the distribution of the estate.
Part of this process requires knowing the fair market value of any real estate owned at the date of death.
That’s where a licensed appraiser comes in: we provide an independent, unbiased estate appraisal that meets court requirements and IRS guidelines.
Why an Estate Appraisal is So Important in Atlanta
Atlanta’s real estate market can change quickly. Home values fluctuate from neighborhood to neighborhood — from Buckhead and Midtown to East Point or Decatur.
Having a current, well-documented estate appraisal helps:
Prevent disputes among heirs
Satisfy the probate court
Ensure accurate estate tax reporting
Guide fair distribution or sale of property
Without it, the estate could be undervalued or overvalued — leading to tax problems or family conflict.
What Does a Licensed Appraiser Do for Probate?
A licensed appraiser in Georgia is trained to:
Inspect the property
Research recent comparable sales in Atlanta and surrounding areas
Analyze market trends
Produce a detailed, defensible appraisal report
This isn’t the same as a real estate agent’s estimate. Courts, attorneys, and the IRS typically require a formal appraisal by a licensed appraiser.
When Should You Order a Probate or Estate Appraisal?
Ideally, as soon as probate begins — especially if:
The property will be sold to settle debts or divide assets
You need to establish the value as of the date of death
The estate may be subject to federal or Georgia estate taxes
Getting the appraisal early can save time, avoid legal delays, and help you plan confidently.
Local Expertise Matters
As a licensed appraiser serving Atlanta, Georgia, I understand the unique factors that influence home values here:
School districts
Neighborhood development
Historic vs. newer homes
Atlanta’s rapidly changing market trends
This local knowledge ensures the appraisal reflects the true market value — not just a generic estimate.
Final Thoughts
If you’re navigating probate or handling an estate in Atlanta, Georgia, an experienced licensed appraiser can make the process smoother, fairer, and more transparent.
Whether it’s your family home, a rental property, or multiple properties, having a professional probate appraisal ensures everyone involved has a clear picture — and helps you move forward with confidence.
Ready to get started?
If you have questions — or need a licensed appraiser to help with your probate or estate appraisal in Atlanta — reach out today .
I’m here to help guide you through the process and make it as stress-free as possible.
If you’re ready to get started, you can request your Probate appraisal here!