Do Home Appraisers Go Inside? What You Need to Know About Appraisals, Costs, and Expert Services in Atlanta.
If you’re navigating a property transfer, estate settlement, divorce, tax matter, or preparing to sell an investment home, chances are you’ll need a credible, professional home appraisal. But what exactly does that process involve? Does a home appraiser go inside the property? How much does it cost? And what if you need a valuation that stands up in court?
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in non-lender residential appraisals for homeowners, attorneys, investors, and fiduciaries across the Atlanta metropolitan area. Let’s walk you through some of the most common questions we hear and how we can help.
A home appraisal is a professional opinion of value performed by a state-licensed real estate appraiser. Unlike a Zestimate or an agent’s CMA, an appraisal is an independent, USPAP-compliant analysis that factors in market data, property condition, legal rights, and more. It’s the gold standard for credible valuations, especially when legal, financial, or tax decisions are involved.
Yes — in most cases, a home appraisal requires an interior inspection. While some desktop or exterior-only appraisals exist, a full interior inspection provides the most accurate valuation. This includes measuring the home’s square footage, noting the layout, condition, upgrades, and any deferred maintenance.
At REI Valuations, we conduct detailed walk-throughs, take measurements, photos, and document features that affect marketability — whether it’s a dated kitchen or luxury bathroom remodel. We also offer home measurement-only services when you just need an accurate sketch or GLA (gross living area) verification.
What Are Home Appraisal Costs in Atlanta?
The cost of a home appraisal varies depending on complexity, property type, intended use, and turnaround time. For example:
Standard homeowner appraisals (pre-listing, FSBO, estate planning): $450–$900
Complex or multi-family properties: $500–$750
Urgent / expedited requests: Additional fees may apply
Expert witness assignments (divorce, litigation): $450–$1,200+
We provide tiered pricing and custom quotes based on each assignment’s scope. No lender overlays. No hidden fees.
Atlanta Estate Tax Appraisers & Probate Valuations
Estate and probate appraisals are a core focus of our practice. If you’re settling an estate or filing IRS Form 706 or 709, you’ll need a retrospective appraisal — often dated back to the date of death. These must be USPAP-compliant, defensible, and properly documented.
We’ve worked with CPAs, fiduciaries, and probate attorneys throughout Atlanta to provide estate tax valuations that meet IRS standards and timelines. We also serve as expert witnesses if values are ever questioned.
Expert Witness Appraiser & Litigation Support
In complex legal matters — like divorce disputes, partnership dissolutions, or zoning challenges — having an expert witness appraiser is critical. Our team at REI Valuations is experienced in providing written reports, courtroom testimony, and rebuttals when valuation disputes arise.
We don’t just appraise — we consult, defend, and explain. When necessary, we’ll walk your attorney through every comp, adjustment, and method used in the appraisal, whether it’s Sales Comparison, Cost, or Income Approach.
Real Estate Consulting for Investors
We also work with real estate investors who want more than just a number. Whether you’re flipping a house, renting a duplex, or developing land, we provide strategic insights like:
As-is vs. after-repair values
Income approach analysis for rental properties
Zoning and land-use studies
Feasibility consulting for value-add projects
Our goal is to give you an honest, market-based valuation that helps you make smarter investment decisions.
Does Every Appraisal Include an Interior Walkthrough?
Most do — but not always. Here’s how we break it down:
Full Appraisal (Interior + Exterior) – Standard for most private uses
Desktop Appraisal – No inspection, based solely on public data (limited use)
Drive-by / Exterior-Only – Visual exterior assessment only (limited credibility)
Measurement-Only – For square footage verification without value opinion
If you’re unsure what type you need, we’ll help you figure it out during the intake process.
Why REI Valuations & Advisory?
We’re not a mass-volume lender shop. We specialize in non-lender, legal-grade, private-use appraisals. Our appraisers are Atlanta-based, state-licensed professionals with deep market knowledge, sharp analytical skills, and courtroom experience. We’re committed to independent, credible, and unbiased valuation work, tailored to your exact use case.
We proudly serve:
Need an Appraisal? Let’s Talk.
Whether you’re dealing with probate, divorce, estate tax, or simply planning to sell your home or investment property, we’re here to help. Call us, text us, or request a quote today.
Email: reivaluations@gmail.com
October 15, 2025 6:00pm