Divorce Appraisals in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Divide the Property.
When a marriage ends, untangling emotions is one part — untangling property value is another.
One of the most contested and critical issues in a divorce is who gets what — especially when real estate is involved. Whether it’s the marital home, a rental property, or vacant land, getting an accurate, unbiased appraisal can make or break the settlement.
So, how does the divorce process work when it comes to real estate appraisals?
Why a Divorce Appraisal Is Different from a Regular Appraisal
Unlike a typical home appraisal done for a lender, a divorce appraisal is often required for legal and court-related purposes. The stakes are high. This valuation may directly impact:
Equity division
Buyout amounts
Property sale decisions
Tax implications
Alimony or asset equalization
That’s why judges, mediators, and attorneys often request a certified appraisal that can hold up under scrutiny — even in court.
How the Process Works: Step-by-Step
Here’s how we handle divorce appraisals at REI Valuations & Advisory:
1. Intake & Scope Definition
We clarify who the report is for (one party or both), what the effective date should be (e.g., current, filing date, or date of separation), and whether the home is being kept or sold.
2. Site Visit
We conduct a full interior and exterior inspection — measuring the home according to ANSI standards, documenting condition, upgrades, and marketability.
3. Market Research & Valuation
We perform a deep sales comparison analysis using the most recent and relevant data, tailored to the home’s unique features and the local Atlanta metro market.
4. Report Delivery
We issue a USPAP-compliant, defensible report that meets the standards required for mediation, court proceedings, or settlement negotiations.
Attorneys who need defensible, certified values to support their client’s case
Spouses buying out the other’s interest
Mediators facilitating property division
Courts requiring impartial third-party valuations
Agents who need a rock-solid number for listing or purchase
REI Valuations & Advisory is a certified residential appraisal firm serving the entire Atlanta metropolitan area — including Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Cobb, and surrounding counties. We are:
State-certified & USPAP-compliant
Experienced in court-related valuation work
Known for our discretion, professionalism, and speed
Focused on non-lender assignments like divorce, probate, tax appeal, and litigation
We understand the emotional and financial complexity of divorce. We approach every appraisal with objectivity, clarity, and care — so that you or your client can move forward with confidence.
Don’t Let Uncertainty Cost You in Court
The difference between a vague Zestimate and a proper divorce appraisal could cost you tens of thousands of dollars in missed equity, overpayment, or prolonged legal battles.
If you’re in the middle of a divorce — or advising someone who is — make sure real estate isn’t the wild card.
Schedule your confidential consultation today
Serving all of Metro Atlanta | Certified Residential Appraisers
Contact Link: https://www.rei-valuations.com/home or Call 4046923878
November 18 2025
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?
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
2025 Guide to Home & Land Appraisals in Metro Atlanta: What You Need to Know
If you’re a homeowner, attorney, investor, or executor in the Atlanta metro area, understanding how home and land appraisals work in 2025 can save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re going through a divorce, settling an estate, appealing property taxes, or simply planning a sale, a professional appraisal is your key to clarity and confidence. Here’s everything you need to know about how appraisals work, how much they cost, why the price varies, and what to expect from the process.
A home appraisal is an independent, third-party opinion of value, based on detailed analysis of the property, comparable sales, and local market trends. In the greater Atlanta area, this includes counties like Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, DeKalb, Douglas, and beyond. A typical appraisal includes a property inspection, market research, adjustments for features and condition, and a written report that states the appraiser’s final opinion of value.
The process typically looks like this: (1) the client initiates the request and receives a letter of engagement, (2) the appraiser conducts background research, (3) an on-site inspection is performed (including photos, measurements, and notes), (4) comparable sales are analyzed and adjusted, (5) the report is written and delivered, and (6) follow-up questions, if any, are addressed.
Why appraisal costs vary in Atlanta
Appraisal fees in metro Atlanta can vary significantly based on several factors. While most standard residential appraisals range from $400 to $750, more complex assignments may fall outside that range.
Here are some of the key factors that drive cost variation in Atlanta home appraisals:
Property size and complexity: Larger homes with more square footage, multiple floors, or outbuildings take more time to measure, inspect, and adjust for. Complex layouts or unique features (like basements, additions, or accessory dwelling units) also add to the workload.
Location and accessibility: If the property is in a remote or rural area, or in a gated community with limited access, travel time and coordination can increase the overall cost. Properties with difficult terrain or no paved access may also require extra effort.
Type of report and level of detail: A full narrative appraisal for legal or litigation purposes requires more explanation, support, and documentation than a restricted-use report or basic summary form. The more detailed and comprehensive the report, the higher the fee.
Legal or expert witness involvement: If the appraiser may be asked to testify in court, sit for a deposition, or defend the appraisal under cross-examination, the assignment typically includes expert witness fees, preparation time, and added liability considerations.
Additional services: Services like property measurement sketches, floor plans, consultations, multiple value scenarios, or site revisits may incur additional fees depending on the assignment.
Divorce is one of the most common reasons people request an appraisal in metro Atlanta. When real estate is part of marital assets, a clear, impartial valuation helps attorneys and spouses make informed decisions—whether it’s for buyouts, asset division, or court proceedings.
Divorce appraisals are often retrospective, meaning they value the property as of the date of separation or filing—not today. This requires historical data, old sales, and market trend analysis, which increases the complexity and cost. In many cases, both parties may agree to use one neutral appraiser, or each side may retain their own.
If litigation is involved, the appraiser may need to testify as an expert witness. This includes preparing exhibits, attending depositions, or explaining the valuation methodology under oath. Not all appraisers offer this level of service, so it’s important to work with one experienced in family law and court-ready reporting.
Unlike residential homes, land requires a different appraisal approach. There are no bedrooms or bathrooms—just raw acreage, zoning codes, utility access, topography, and development potential. Whether you’re buying a vacant lot, subdividing land, or investing in future development, land valuation hinges on factors like:
Estate, probate, and IRS-related appraisals
If you’re handling the estate of a loved one, you may be required to obtain a “date of death” appraisal for estate tax, probate court, or financial planning. These retrospective valuations are based on the market value as of the decedent’s date of passing, not the current market.
IRS Form 706 and Form 709 often require credible appraisal documentation to support real property valuations used in estate tax or gift tax calculations. These appraisals must follow USPAP standards and include specific disclosures and certifications.
Probate attorneys often rely on our appraisals to settle real estate values for asset distribution, trust funding, or court filings. We also provide services to estate planners who want to establish stepped-up basis or document gift transfers among family members.
Expert witness and litigation support
In cases where valuation is contested—such as divorce, partnership disputes, tax appeals, or condemnation—the appraiser may need to serve as an expert witness. This involves more than just writing a report. It includes preparing for deposition, answering discovery, producing supplemental exhibits, and testifying in court if needed.
Expert witness assignments carry a higher fee structure due to the added risk, time, and liability. When real estate values are under legal dispute, credibility and professionalism matter more than ever. We support both attorneys and private parties in navigating these high-stakes scenarios with clear, defensible valuations.
Home measurement and floor plan services
In addition to full appraisals, we offer standalone home measurement and floor plan services for agents, homeowners, and investors who need accurate square footage or marketing materials. Whether you’re verifying a home’s GLA (Gross Living Area), preparing for MLS listing, or disputing a tax assessment, having a professional measurement sketch ensures you’re not underreporting or overstating a property’s size.
All measurements are conducted using ANSI-compliant methods, and sketches are delivered in both digital and PDF format. This service is especially useful when tax records are outdated or inconsistent with actual property dimensions.
What to expect when ordering an appraisal
Here’s what clients can typically expect when working with us in 2025:
Transparent pricing based on urgency, complexity, location, and assignment type
A formal letter of engagement outlining scope, cost, and timeline
On-site inspection with photos and measurements
Delivery of a USPAP-compliant report via email or secure portal
Optional add-ons like floor plans, surveys, or expert testimony prep
Responsive support if clarification or revisions are needed
Most reports are completed within 5–7 business days, but urgent cases or litigation timelines can be expedited when necessary.
Get clarity with confidence
If you’re facing a major life event—divorce, estate settlement, tax filing, litigation, or selling your home—don’t guess on value. A professional appraisal offers certainty, peace of mind, and a credible foundation for decision-making.
We proudly serve the entire Atlanta metro area, including Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, DeKalb, Douglas, and surrounding counties. Whether you need a single-family appraisal, land valuation, expert witness report, or property measurement, we’re here to help.
Reach out today for a free consultation or to request a quote.
Phone: 4046923878
October 2025