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?