Why Home Appraisals Matter in Divorce — And How to Protect Your Equity.
Divorce is rarely simple — and when real estate is involved, it adds another layer of complexity. One of the most important questions in any divorce involving a home is:
“What’s the house actually worth?”
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in court-related divorce appraisals that provide an independent, defensible opinion of value — so that property division is based on facts, not guesswork.
Why a Divorce Appraisal Matters
Dividing the equity in a home often represents the largest financial decision in a divorce. Whether one party is buying out the other, or the home is being sold and proceeds split, the number everyone starts from is the appraised value.
Avoid overpaying or undervaluing the property
Support your attorney or mediator with reliable documentation
Reduce conflict by relying on a third-party, impartial valuation
Ensure the appraisal meets court standards for use in proceedings
What Makes a Divorce Appraisal Different?
Not all appraisals are created equal.
In a divorce, you need an appraisal that is:
Impartial — no bias toward either party
USPAP-compliant — upholding the highest standards of ethics and credibility
Defensible — clear enough for attorneys, judges, or mediators to understand and use in decision-making
Flexible in date — sometimes appraisals must reflect current value or a retrospective date (such as date of separation)
We tailor our divorce appraisals to meet the needs of your unique situation — whether you’re working through attorneys, mediation, or private negotiation.
How We Support Divorce Clients
At REI Valuations, we’ve helped countless clients navigate home valuation during divorce. Our process is:
Private and professional — we respect the sensitivity of every situation
Clear and fast — you’ll receive a quote, timeline, and engagement letter upfront
Court-ready — every report is designed to meet legal standards and withstand scrutiny
Supportive — we communicate clearly and can coordinate with attorneys if needed
If you’re in the middle of a divorce or just preparing for next steps, a trusted, independent appraisal can give you the clarity and leverage you need to make smart decisions.
Reach out today for a confidential quote or to ask questions about the process.
Call or text us directly: 4046923878
Need clarity before you split the equity? Request a confidential divorce appraisal today.
New: Free Appraisal Guides for High-Stakes Situations
Get free, expert-backed guidance for divorce, probate, tax appeal, and more — before you ever spend a dollar.
If you’re dealing with a situation like divorce, estate settlement, tax appeal, or bankruptcy — chances are it’s your first time. But for us, it’s what we do every single day.
We’ve helped homeowners, attorneys, CPAs, and families across Georgia navigate some of the most sensitive and high-stakes valuation situations you can face — from dividing assets in a divorce to supporting IRS filings, probate, or relocation buyouts.
Most people just want to know where to start.
They want to avoid mistakes.
They want to make the right decision — before they commit.
A free one-page guide for each major appraisal situation.
No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear, expert-backed guidance you can actually use — in plain English.
These guides are the exact same frameworks we use every day with:
Now they’re yours — completely free.
Each guide includes:
And they’re tailored to your situation — not just a generic real estate article.
Not sure what kind of appraisal you even need?
That’s normal.
We’ve helped hundreds of clients who felt the exact same way. These guides are a zero-pressure way to get answers before you make a move — and to feel confident that you’re taking the right first step.
Visit our Free Appraisal Guides hub here:
https://www.rei-valuations.com/free-guides
November 6 2025
Date of Death Appraisals in Atlanta: What They Are, Why You Need One, and How We Help.
When a loved one passes away and leaves behind real estate, one of the most important — yet overlooked — steps in the estate process is getting a Date of Death Appraisal.
This isn’t just about knowing what the property is worth. It’s about protecting your family’s financial future, staying compliant with IRS guidelines, and potentially saving tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in capital gains taxes.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in retrospective date of death appraisals that establish the proper step-up in basis — so you can move forward with confidence, clarity, and tax compliance.
What Is a Date of Death Appraisal?
It’s typically used for:
The IRS requires a “qualified appraisal” to substantiate the fair market value of inherited property. That means it must be performed by a licensed real estate appraiser — and it must comply with USPAP standards and IRS Publication 561.
The Problem Most Families Face
Grieving families often delay or skip this critical step — not realizing that failing to get a professional valuation can lead to:
You may be asking:
“Can we just use a Zestimate or tax assessor’s number?”
“What if we plan to sell the house soon anyway?”
Here’s the truth:
Without a certified retrospective appraisal, you may be setting your family up for tax liability, legal delays, or equity loss.
The Solution: Our IRS-Compliant Date of Death Appraisal Service
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we provide full-service, court‑ and IRS‑ready Date of Death Appraisals across the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
Certified Retrospective Valuation – Based on the exact date of death, with full support documentation and sales comps from that time period.
Step-Up Basis Support – Establish the updated cost basis so you can eliminate unnecessary capital gains tax when the property is sold.
IRS & CPA Coordination – Our reports are built for accountants, probate attorneys, and IRS documentation.
Family Clarity & Confidence – We help eliminate guesswork, remove emotional decision-making, and give all heirs a clear, unbiased value to work from.
Fast Turnaround Times – We understand time-sensitive estate cases and keep you informed from intake to delivery.
Fully USPAP & IRS Compliant – No cut corners. Every report is produced to meet the highest valuation standards, suitable for tax reporting or legal proceedings.
We regularly work with:
If you’re navigating probate or preparing to sell an inherited property, this appraisal is your foundation.
Real Example: Tax-Free Equity After 40+ Years of Ownership
We recently assisted a retired CPA whose family inherited a home purchased in the early 1980s. By establishing the step-up basis through our Date of Death Appraisal, they were able to avoid hundreds of thousands in taxable gains — and sell the home with zero capital gains tax.
Our appraisal wasn’t just a number — it was the difference between financial stress and tax-free equity.
Call to Action: Get the Clarity You Need
Don’t leave your family’s finances to chance.
Contact us today to request a Date of Death Appraisal, or learn more about how this one step can eliminate future tax issues, legal delays, and costly mistakes.
Request Your Date of Death Appraisal
Let REI Valuations & Advisory be your guide through the estate process — with accuracy, professionalism, and peace of mind every step of the way.
November 4th 2025
Do Appraisers Go Inside the Home? What You Need to Know About Interior Inspections, Measurements & Expert Valuations in Atlanta.
Do appraisers actually come inside the home?
The short answer: Yes, they usually do.
But let’s break it down.
Why Appraisers Typically Go Inside the Home
In most appraisal assignments—whether for divorce, estate settlement, property tax appeal, or pre-listing—a full interior and exterior inspection is required to provide an accurate, credible valuation.
Appraisers evaluate:
Interior condition, finishes & upgrades
Room count & functional layout
Signs of deferred maintenance
Updates (kitchens, baths, flooring, systems)
Square footage (gross living area)
While drive-by or desktop appraisals exist, those are usually limited-use and not suitable for legal, IRS, or high-stakes valuation purposes.
Do Appraisers Measure the Home Too?
Yes—certified appraisers provide professional home measurement services, especially for clients who need:
Accurate square footage for listing
Verification against county records
Pre-sale documentation for FSBO or agents
Evidence for property tax disputes
Our Home Measurement Services use ANSI-compliant standards and laser tools to ensure reliable results, often bundled with or separate from full appraisal reports.
When You Need an Expert Witness Appraiser
We’re often called upon as expert witness appraisers in divorce cases, estate disputes, or litigation involving property value. These assignments require:
Defensible, court-ready reports
USPAP-compliant methodology
Familiarity with Georgia court systems
Ability to testify confidently and credibly
Whether you’re working with an attorney or preparing for trial, we deliver impartial, expert valuations designed to hold up under scrutiny.
Need a date-of-death appraisal for estate settlement or IRS Form 706?
Our certified appraisers specialize in Atlanta estate appraisals, providing:
Appraisal Cost: What to Expect
Pricing varies depending on the assignment type, property size, and urgency.
Typical costs:
We always offer transparent, flat-fee pricing—no surprises, no hidden costs.
If you’re searching for a “home appraiser near me,” or wondering if appraisers enter the property—know that a quality appraisal starts with a full interior inspection and precise measurements.
Whether you need a trusted valuation for court, taxes, listing prep, or peace of mind—REI Valuations & Advisory is here to help.
Serving Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, and the greater Atlanta area.
Request an Appraisal or Home Measurement Now
October 31, 2025
Not All Appraisals Are Created Equal — Here’s How We Handle Each Type
Real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all. Neither are appraisals.
Whether you’re going through a divorce, settling an estate, navigating bankruptcy, or preparing to list a property, the type of appraisal you need depends entirely on your situation. And if you want to get it right the first time — especially when legal or financial implications are involved — you need more than just an appraiser. You need one who understands the assignment type, the local market, and what’s at stake.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common appraisal assignments we handle at REI Valuations — and how we tailor each one to meet your needs.
Whether for internal family use or estate tax filings, estate appraisals often hinge on a retrospective “date of death” value. We dig deep into historical market data, zoning overlays, and condition adjustments to build a court-defensible report — so your CPA or attorney isn’t left guessing.
Probate court requires clear, impartial valuation — especially when multiple heirs are involved. We deliver certified, USPAP-compliant reports designed to stand up in court, with explanations your legal team can actually use.
Divorce is already complicated. We simplify the real estate side by providing neutral, independent valuations that help both parties and their attorneys understand what’s fair — without inflaming the conflict.
IRS Appraisals (Gift Tax, Step-Up Basis, etc.)
When the IRS is involved, documentation matters. We produce formal appraisal reports that meet the stringent requirements for gift tax, estate tax, or basis step-up valuations. These aren’t Zillow screenshots — they’re defensible, well-supported reports with full certifications.
Whether required by the court or part of your financial disclosure, we provide real-time fair market valuations that reflect the property’s condition and marketability — not inflated listings or investor hype.
Immigration & USCIS Appraisals
When your immigration process hinges on proving your net worth or assets, a certified real estate appraisal can make all the difference. We understand USCIS guidelines and produce appraisals suitable for submission with your application.
Listing too high? You risk sitting on the market. Too low? You leave money on the table. Our pre-listing valuations help homeowners and agents price properties confidently, backed by detailed comp analysis and market trends.
Before you buy, know what you’re walking into. We provide investor-style due diligence for buyers — especially helpful in private deals or FSBO transactions where no formal valuation exists.
Investment Property Appraisals
Rentals, flips, BRRRR — we work with investors every week to analyze ARV, cap rates, and market trajectory. Whether you’re looking to refinance, reposition, or divest, we help you make numbers-based decisions with confidence.
Every neighborhood is its own ecosystem.
An appraiser who understands zoning overlays in Cobb County, new development trends in Gwinnett, and investor behavior in Fulton is going to serve you better than a generalist flying in from out of town.
We’re based right here in the Atlanta region. We know what homes are worth — because we see them, value them, and inspect them every week. From Fulton to Forsyth, Douglas to DeKalb, this is our backyard.
Get a Valuation Built for Your Situation
No matter your reason — legal, financial, or personal — you need a valuation that’s credible, compliant, and customized to your needs.
Certified, USPAP-compliant reports
Built for attorneys, CPAs, investors, and homeowners
Ready to move forward with clarity?
Looking for an Appraiser Near You? Here’s What to Know About Local Land and Home Valuations
When you search for “appraiser near me” or “land appraiser near me,” it usually means you’re making an important decision — and you want trusted, local expertise to guide it.
Whether you’re buying land, selling a home, appealing taxes, planning an estate, or dividing property in a divorce, having the right appraiser in your corner can make a major difference.
So let’s break it down:
What Are You Really Looking For When You Google “Appraiser Near Me”?
You’re not just looking for anyone with a license — you’re looking for:
Local market knowledge — someone who knows the neighborhood and land values block by block.
Unbiased third-party support — an appraiser who’s not working for the buyer or seller, but for the truth.
Experience with your type of property — whether that’s raw land, residential homes, rental properties, or something more unique.
Clear, defensible reports — whether for court, IRS, tax appeal boards, or buyers and sellers.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, that’s what we deliver — every time.
We Specialize in Local Land and Home Appraisals
We’re one of the few independent firms in the Atlanta area that specializes in both:
If you’re evaluating land for a future build, or need a defensible value for a probate or legal situation, we can help.
We proudly serve clients across the greater Atlanta region, including:
…and surrounding cities and towns throughout North Georgia
If you’re not sure whether you’re in our service area, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to confirm.
Why “Near Me” Still Matters in Appraisal Work
In an age of digital everything, geography still matters — especially in real estate.
Valuations can vary dramatically just across neighborhood lines, zoning districts, or school zones. Online tools like Zestimate or Redfin can’t capture those nuances — but a qualified local appraiser can.
We bring boots-on-the-ground knowledge, combined with the latest market data, to help you make confident, well-informed decisions.
Need an Appraiser Near You? Let’s Talk.
Whether you’re dealing with a unique parcel of land, a family estate, a pending legal matter, or just need peace of mind — we’re here to help.
REI Valuations & Advisory offers fast, professional service with a clear, client-focused process from start to finish.
Serving Metro Atlanta and Surrounding Counties
Email: reivaluations@gmail.com
October 19 1:30pm
Understanding Date of Death, IRS, Probate, and Divorce Appraisals in 2025.
Whether you’re navigating estate planning, finalizing a divorce, or settling a loved one’s estate, a real estate appraisal often becomes a critical step in the legal and financial process. In 2025, the demand for credible, court-ready appraisals continues to grow — especially in matters involving the IRS, probate court, and domestic legal proceedings.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common types of legal-oriented appraisals:
Probate and estate appraisals for inheritance or trust distribution
How the process works, what to expect, and how much they typically cost
What Is a Date of Death Appraisal?
A Date of Death appraisal estimates the fair market value of real estate as of the exact date a property owner passed away. This valuation is used for:
This is a retrospective appraisal — meaning it values the property as it existed in the past, not today. The effective date may be months or even years prior to the actual appraisal inspection.
Common scenarios where DOD appraisals are needed:
What Is an IRS Estate or Probate Appraisal?
An IRS estate appraisal must meet strict standards of independence, accuracy, and credibility. It should be conducted by a state-licensed or certified real estate appraiser and developed in compliance with USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice).
Probate and estate appraisals help:
Determine how much each heir is entitled to
Establish fair market value for estate inventories
Resolve disputes over inherited property
Report to probate court or estate attorneys
The IRS and probate courts require a well-documented, supportable opinion of value, typically using the Sales Comparison Approach, and, in some cases, the Cost Approach if improvements are relatively new or unique.
A divorce appraisal is used to equitably divide real property during a separation or divorce. In 2025, courts and attorneys rely heavily on neutral, third-party valuations to avoid disputes and delays.
Key features of a divorce appraisal:
May be retrospective (date of separation) or current market value
Must remain impartial and unbiased
Often reviewed by attorneys or presented in court
Can involve expert witness testimony if contested
Divorcing couples typically need one of the following:
A joint appraisal (agreed upon by both parties)
Two competing appraisals (one from each side)
A court-appointed appraisal as a tie-breaker
How Much Do These Appraisals Cost in 2025?
In 2025, specialized legal-oriented appraisals are more complex than standard lender reports — and priced accordingly. At REI Valuations & Advisory, our typical pricing for non-lending residential assignments is:
All of our valuations are USPAP-compliant, court-defensible, and tailored for attorneys, CPAs, fiduciaries, and homeowners navigating sensitive legal matters.
We keep the process simple, professional, and fully documented:
Initial Consultation
We’ll discuss your needs, deadline, and whether the appraisal is for IRS, probate, divorce, or another legal purpose.Property Inspection
A physical walkthrough of the home, including photos, measurements, and condition notes.Data Research & Valuation Development
We analyze recent comparable sales, market trends, land value, and depreciation if applicable. If the valuation is retrospective, we analyze data as of the effective date requested.Report Delivery
You receive a PDF copy of the full appraisal report, formatted to meet your intended use. We can also provide multiple copies or submit directly to your attorney or CPA if needed.Follow-Up Support
We remain available to explain findings, assist with legal review, or provide expert witness support if the matter goes to court.
Whether you’re settling an estate, resolving a divorce, or filing with the IRS, an inaccurate or biased valuation can lead to thousands in overpaid taxes, delayed court proceedings, or costly disputes.
A credible, impartial appraisal protects all parties — and stands up under scrutiny.
Need Help with a Legal-Oriented Appraisal in Georgia?
We specialize in non-lending, court-related appraisals across the Atlanta metro area and surrounding counties — including:
Whether you’re an executor, family member, attorney, or CPA, we’re here to provide reliable, court-defensible appraisal services you can trust.
October 12, 2025 5:00PM
Professional Home Measurement Services in Atlanta and Surrounding Counties.
Get Accurate, Professional Home Measurement Services Near You
Whether you’re a homeowner preparing to sell, a real estate agent listing a property, or an investor double-checking property specs — knowing your home’s true square footage is essential. At REI Valuations & Advisory, we provide certified home measurement services in Atlanta, Georgia, and throughout the surrounding metro counties, helping you avoid costly errors and valuation disputes.
What Are Home Measurement Services?
Home measurement services involve a licensed professional physically measuring the exterior and/or interior of a property using industry-standard methods, such as ANSI guidelines or appraiser-based methodology. The result is a precise sketch and verified square footage that can be used for:
Our measurement reports include:
Exterior perimeter measurements (detached homes)
Interior dimensions (townhomes, condos)
Floorplan sketches
Gross Living Area (GLA) breakdowns
Non-GLA areas (garage, porches, basements)
Clear labeling and square footage by level
Why Accurate Home Measurements Matter
Too often, MLS listings rely on outdated or inaccurate tax records. Overstated square footage can lead to legal liability, while understated GLA can leave money on the table when selling.
As licensed appraisers, we don’t just measure — we apply professional judgment based on market norms and compliance standards. You’ll walk away with a defensible, third-party measurement that can be used confidently in any transaction.
Home Measurement Services in Atlanta Metro — Areas We Serve
We proudly serve homeowners, agents, and attorneys throughout the greater Atlanta region. If you’re searching for home measurement services near me, we’re your go-to source in:
Fulton County (Atlanta, South Fulton, Sandy Springs, College Park)
Gwinnett County (Duluth, Norcross, Lawrenceville, Snellville)
How to Schedule a Home Measurement
We offer flexible appointments and quick turnaround for urgent listing deadlines. Our process is simple:
Initial Call – We learn your needs, property type, and timeline.
On-Site Visit – We conduct the measurement in person using laser tools and best practices.
Report Delivery – Within 24–48 hours, you’ll receive a PDF sketch and full GLA breakdown.
Whether you’re listing a home FSBO, preparing for a tax appeal, or want a neutral third-party square footage report, we can help.
Request a Home Measurement Today
If you need home measurement services in Atlanta, Georgia, or in Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb, DeKalb, Henry, or Paulding County, reach out today.
We’re fast, accurate, and independent — because your square footage shouldn’t be a guessing game.
Call now 4046923878 or
October 8th 2025