2026 IRS-Qualified Appraisals in Georgia: What Heirs & CPAs Need to Know About Step-Up Valuations
Inheriting a property in Georgia can be a blessing — or a tax trap — depending on how you handle the real estate’s valuation.
In 2026, the IRS is tightening review protocols for estate filings, especially when it comes to step-up in basis valuations. If you’re filing IRS Form 706 or 1041, or advising someone who is, you need an IRS-qualified real estate appraisal — and it needs to be done right the first time.
Recently, we helped a CPA and her client in Atlanta resolve a date of death valuation discrepancy that could’ve cost the estate over $15,000 in excess capital gains. The mistake? They used a sale price instead of the fair market value on the actual date of death. A licensed retrospective appraisal corrected the record — and avoided the audit.
Let’s walk through how to make sure you don’t make that mistake.
Step-by-Step: How to Ensure Your Appraisal Meets IRS Guidelines
Step 1: Understand What the IRS Actually Requires
According to the IRS’s estate and gift tax rules (IRS Pub. 559), a real estate appraisal must:
Be performed by a qualified appraiser
Follow USPAP standards
Reflect the property’s value on the date of death
Include comparable sales, adjustments, and defensible methodology
Be clearly documented and submitted with Form 706 or 1041 if applicable
CMAs, Zestimates, and agent estimates do not qualify.
You need a formal, signed, IRS-qualified appraisal report.
Step 2: Make Sure It’s a Retrospective Appraisal
The appraisal must be dated as of the day your loved one passed — not the date of the report, not the sales date, not “today.”
This is called a retrospective effective date, and it’s critical.
If your report doesn’t show that? The IRS could toss it out — or worse, flag the filing.
Step 3: Find a Local, IRS-Qualified Appraiser Near You
Searches like:
“IRS-qualified appraisal near me”
“Georgia estate tax appraisal”
“real estate appraisal IRS qualified Atlanta”
…are how most clients find us.
We serve the entire Atlanta metro and surrounding counties with licensed, retrospective appraisals for estate and probate purposes. Every report we deliver is built to hold up under IRS review and professional scrutiny.
Step 4: Document Everything for Your CPA or Attorney
We include:
A PDF copy of your report for legal/tax purposes
A simplified value summary
A signed certification from your appraiser
Support for any follow-up your CPA or attorney may need
No last-minute scrambling. No confusing paperwork. No mistakes.
Pro Tip for Heirs, Executors, and CPAs
If you’re filing Form 706 or handling asset distributions, don’t wait until tax season peaks.
We only take a limited number of estate appraisals each month to ensure turnaround time stays fast and accurate.
Here’s What’s Included When You Work With REI Valuations
✔ Licensed Georgia Appraiser (IRS-qualified)
✔ Retrospective date of death valuation
✔ USPAP-compliant methodology
✔ Court- and IRS-acceptable report format
✔ Clean documentation for tax filings
✔ Delivery within 5–7 business days
✔ Free upgrade to 3-day priority turnaround if you mention this blog ($75 value)
Filing Estate Taxes in Georgia? Don’t Risk the IRS Kicking Back Your Report.
We specialize in IRS-qualified estate and probate appraisals across Georgia.
Secure your licensed appraisal today — and file with confidence.
Only 3 estate appraisal slots left this week.
Request yours before calendars fill up.
Request Your Date of Death Appraisal Now
January 6th 2026 9:51am
Georgia Heirs & CPAs: 2026 IRS Step-Up Rules Are Stricter — Don’t File Estate Taxes Without This Appraisal
Don’t Let the IRS Question Your Step-Up: How to Get the Right Date of Death Appraisal the First Time
In 2026, IRS scrutiny around estate tax filings is up — especially in Georgia, where property values surged and step-up basis claims are under the microscope.
We’ve seen heirs and CPAs risk major penalties (or worse, audit flags) because they used the wrong home value — or submitted a CMA instead of a licensed retrospective appraisal.
If you’re handling an estate, managing Form 706/1041, or advising a client on capital gains exposure, here’s what you need to know now — before tax season hits full swing.
Most heirs don’t realize this, but the IRS doesn’t just accept a home’s value — they scrutinize it. Especially when there’s a step-up in basis involved and a significant estate tax implication on the line.
We recently worked with a client in the Atlanta metro whose accountant was about to report the property value using the sales price — months after the owner passed.
That would’ve cost the estate over $27,000 in additional capital gains taxes.
Why? Because the sales price wasn’t the fair market value on the date of death — and that’s what the IRS legally requires.
Let’s break down what you need to know so you don’t make the same mistake.
The 3 Things the IRS Is Really Looking For in a Date of Death Appraisal
1. A Retrospective “Effective Date”
The appraisal must state the home’s value as of the date your loved one passed — not the listing date, the sale date, or the date you file taxes.
If your report doesn’t clearly reflect a retrospective effective date, the IRS may reject it or kick it back for clarification — delaying your estate distribution or filing.
2. A USPAP-Compliant, Licensed Appraisal — Not a CMA or Estimate
IRS examiners don’t accept:
Real estate agent CMAs
Zestimate screenshots
Online calculator tools
“Verbal estimates” from friends or agents
They want a licensed, written appraisal with market comps, adjustments, and defensible methodology.
3. A Report That Can Be Understood By the IRS (Not Just You)
It’s not enough for you to know what your home is worth. The IRS auditor — who’s never seen your home — needs to understand:
Why it was valued the way it was
How the comps were chosen
Whether the condition of the home was factored in
Why any adjustments were made
A licensed appraiser will explain this in a narrative format that passes scrutiny — and protects your numbers.
Common IRS Mistakes We See Heirs Make
Submitting a sales price instead of a date-of-death FMV
Using an estimate from a realtor (even a good one)
Not getting an appraisal until after the estate is already filed
Forgetting to factor in condition (like damage or repairs needed at death)
Not documenting the appraiser’s license and compliance
How We Help You Get It Right the First Time
At REI Valuations, we specialize in IRS-compliant Date of Death Appraisals designed to protect estates, avoid IRS kickbacks, and support step-up in basis filings with confidence.
When you order from us, you get:
BONUS: Mention this blog and get a free upgrade to 3-day priority delivery ($75 value)
Limited Appraisal Slots Available This Week
We only take on a limited number of date of death appraisals per week to ensure turnaround and quality.
👉 Request Your Date of Death Appraisal Now
January 5 2026 1:05pm
5 IRS Mistakes That Can Blow Up a Step-Up in Basis Valuation (And How to Avoid Them)
This Isn’t Just About Getting the Value Right. It’s About Not Getting Audited.
Most heirs — and even some tax professionals — think a “date of death” appraisal is just a formality.
You slap a value on the inherited property, claim your step-up in basis, and move on.
But if that value triggers red flags at the IRS?
You're not just amending a return.
You're explaining the entire basis calculation under audit… with penalties on the table.
We’ve seen it happen. And we know exactly where things go wrong — and how to stop it before it does.
Here Are the 5 Mistakes That Trip Up Most Step-Up Appraisals
1. Using a Real Estate Agent’s CMA Instead of a Licensed Appraisal
The IRS doesn’t accept guesswork.
CMA = Comparative Market Analysis. Not compliant. Not USPAP-standard. Not defensible.
One estate we worked on had an agent estimate of $385,000.
Our licensed appraisal? $451,000 — based on proper comps, adjustments, and market timing.
That $66,000 difference meant a much bigger step-up (and massive long-term tax savings).
2. Choosing the Wrong “Effective Date” of Value
The IRS wants the FMV on the actual date of death — not the filing date, not the estate sale closing date.
We see heirs accidentally use:
The date the will was probated
The day the house was listed
Or worse — a random estimate months later
Solution: Get a retrospective appraisal with the effective date locked in to the decedent’s death.
3. Using the Sales Price as the Step-Up Basis
Just because the home sold for $500,000 doesn’t mean that was its FMV at the time of death.
Markets shift. Interest rates move. Supply and demand change.
In one case, a property sold for $500K… but had a date-of-death FMV of $535K.
Reporting $500K left $35,000 on the table in future capital gains.
4. Failing to Document Property Condition
The IRS doesn’t just want value — it wants supporting evidence.
That means:
Interior photos (not just exterior)
Descriptions of repairs/upgrades
Commentary on deferred maintenance
Why it matters:
If the property had issues, your appraiser needs to reflect those in value — or the IRS will assume otherwise.
We've had cases where the appraised value came in lower than expected — saving the estate on taxes because the home had structural issues.
5. Waiting Too Long and Losing Records
We’ve had heirs come to us 18 months after death, asking for a valuation — with no photos, no walkthrough access, and no context.
Reconstructing FMV becomes much harder — and far riskier — when:
The property has been renovated
It’s been rented or sold
There’s no documentation from the time of death
Best practice: Order the appraisal within 30–90 days of death, even if the estate won’t file for months.
What a Proper Step-Up Appraisal Should Include
A real IRS-ready Date of Death Appraisal from REI Valuations includes:
Retrospective value as of the exact date of death
USPAP-compliant, defensible methodology
Photographic and market evidence
PDF + electronic delivery for CPA/attorney use
Optional affidavit/certification language if needed
For CPAs, Attorneys, and Heirs Who Can’t Afford a Mistake
We specialize in court-accepted, IRS-compliant, and timely date of death appraisals across Georgia.
Includes full licensed appraisal report
Bonus: Property profile PDF to share with your tax preparer
Priority 72-hour delivery available
Only 3 open appraisal slots left this week
January 4 2026
7 Key Things Attorneys & Divorcing Spouses Need to Know About Divorce Appraisals
When couples decide to divorce, one of the most critical and often misunderstood components of property division is real estate valuation. Accurate, unbiased appraisals are essential — not just to divide assets fairly, but to avoid delays, disputes, and costly litigation.
Here are 7 important considerations to keep in mind when ordering or evaluating a real estate appraisal in a divorce:
1. Hire a Qualified, Neutral Appraiser
In divorce proceedings, the valuation must be performed by a licensed or certified real estate appraiser who is neutral and independent of both parties. Reports must comply with USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) and be defensible in court. R.E.I Valuations
Best practice: Avoid online estimates or non‑appraisal opinions — those won’t hold up in mediation or trial.
2. The Appraisal Effective Date Matters
The appraisal should reflect the most relevant valuation date for equitable division. In many cases, this is the current market date — but depending on the timing of separation agreements or equitable division laws in your state, the effective date could vary.
Tip for attorneys: Discuss applicable state rules with your counsel before ordering the report.
3. Online Estimates & AVMs Are Not Sufficient
Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) like Zillow or Redfin estimates are based on algorithms and lack documented market analysis, property condition evaluation, and credible adjustments. These tools may be useful for preliminary research, but they’re not appropriate as evidence in divorce court. R.E.I Valuations
4. Reports Should Be Clear, Detailed & Defensible
A quality divorce appraisal will include:
Recent comparable sales
Photographs and detailed property descriptions
Adjustments for condition, upgrades, and unique features
A clear explanation of valuation logic
This level of documentation makes the appraiser’s opinion easier for attorneys, mediators, and judges to understand and accept.
5. Consider Property Condition & Unique Circumstances
An appraisal must reflect more than just square footage or location — it should consider:
Deferred maintenance
Functional obsolescence
Local market trends
Unique features that affect resale
Why this matters: The condition plays directly into marketability and fair market value, which affects the outcome of property division. R.E.I Valuations
6. Local Market Experience Is Invaluable
Real estate markets vary widely — even within the same metro area. Appraisers with deep local expertise can better identify appropriate comps, understand neighborhood trends, and explain their conclusions in a way that stands up to scrutiny in mediation or in court.
Pro tip: Ask about the appraiser’s experience with divorce appraisals and local case history.
7. Communicate Clearly With Your Appraiser
Open lines of communication before the appraisal engagement can save time and reduce conflict later. Key points to cover include:
The specific legal purpose of the appraisal
The expected report format
Any court or mediator deadlines
Clear expectations up front help avoid disputes over scope, timing, or report content.
Closing Thought: The Right Appraisal Makes a Big Difference
Dividing marital property is emotionally and financially complex. A well‑supported, defensible appraisal reduces disagreements, speeds up settlement, and gives all parties confidence that the outcome is fair.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in neutral, court‑ready divorce appraisals that hold up in mediation and litigation. If you’re navigating property division in Atlanta or the surrounding area, we’re here to help.
December 29 2025
Real Estate Appraiser Near Me – Fast, Reliable, & Local to Atlanta.
When you’re searching for a real estate appraiser near me, you want someone local, experienced, and dependable. At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in providing certified residential appraisal services across the Atlanta metropolitan area — and we’re just one call away.
Whether you’re a homeowner, real estate agent, attorney, or CPA, our valuation services are designed to give you fast, accurate answers you can trust — all delivered with white-glove professionalism and next-level service.
Why Choose a Local Appraiser Near You?
Hiring a local real estate appraiser matters. Here’s why:
We know your market. From Buckhead to Fayetteville, Marietta to Decatur, we understand the hyperlocal trends and price shifts unique to every Atlanta neighborhood and surrounding county.
We’re one call away. Our streamlined process ensures you get a quote, inspection date, and report delivery — fast. No waiting. No games.
We’re certified, licensed, and qualified. All of our appraisals comply with USPAP standards and are backed by years of experience and market knowledge.
So if you’re searching for “home appraiser near me”, “real estate appraisal company in Atlanta”, or “certified appraiser near me”, you’re in the right place.
Who We Serve
We proudly provide residential appraisal services for:
Homeowners needing pre-listing, pre-purchase, refinance, or insurance valuations
Real Estate Agents who want credible valuations to support client pricing strategies
Attorneys managing divorce, estate, probate, bankruptcy, or litigation cases
Executors and Trustees involved in date-of-death, trust, or inheritance valuations
Investors and Flippers evaluating ARV, rehab projects, or cash-out refinance decisions
Where We Serve: Greater Atlanta Coverage
We cover the entire Atlanta metropolitan area, including but not limited to:
No matter where you’re located in metro Atlanta, you can count on REI Valuations for a fast, accurate, and compliant appraisal.
Our Most Requested Appraisal Services
If it involves the value of a home, we’ve likely done it — and we can do it for you.
Why Clients Trust REI Valuations
Quick Turnaround Times – We know time is of the essence, especially in legal or financial matters.
Straightforward Pricing – Transparent flat-fee pricing. No surprises.
One-on-One Service – No call centers. No delays. Just you and a licensed appraiser.
Credible, Defensible Reports – We don’t just deliver a number — we deliver a narrative backed by market logic.
If you’re searching for a “real estate appraiser near me in Atlanta”, don’t leave your valuation to chance. Tap into a trusted local expert who understands your market and your needs.
Same-week appointments available
Local. Certified. One Call Away.
December 14 2025
Divorce Appraisals in Atlanta — Certified, Neutral, and On Time !
Dividing a home during divorce is emotional.
Dividing the equity shouldn’t be.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in providing court-ready divorce appraisals for homeowners and attorneys throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area. Our certified appraisals are neutral, USPAP-compliant, and trusted by judges, mediators, and family law attorneys.
Whether you’re working toward settlement or preparing for court, an accurate, professional appraisal can be the difference between resolution and conflict.
Why You Need a Divorce Appraisal
Divorce appraisals are not just about the number — they’re about peace of mind and financial fairness. Here’s why our clients turn to us:
Unbiased Fair Market Value — remove guesswork and emotion from equity decisions
Court-Ready Documentation — fully USPAP-compliant reports that hold up in mediation or trial
Supports Refinance or Buyout Decisions — when one spouse keeps the home
Retrospective Valuations — we can appraise the property as of the date of separation, not just today
Prepares You for Negotiation — attorneys and mediators often rely on the appraiser’s opinion to guide settlement terms
Avoids Zillow Errors & Inflated Estimates — don’t rely on online guesstimates in legal matters
Homeowners going through divorce
Attorneys and family law firms
Mediators and court-appointed representatives
Financial advisors and real estate professionals assisting with settlements
When Should You Get the Appraisal?
As early as possible. Especially if:
A court date is approaching
You need to establish value on the date of separation
One party wants to keep the home
There is disagreement about condition, renovations, or market trends
The earlier you get a professional, independent appraisal, the smoother the process tends to be.
Initial Intake Call or Online Request
Letter of Engagement Signed (Payment Secures Date)
Inspection or Third-Party Verification (as needed)
Research, Market Analysis, and Valuation
Delivery of Certified Appraisal (PDF)
Optional Court or Attorney Support (Upon Request)
All of our reports are delivered on time, with confidentiality, and clear, court-defensible analysis.
We provide divorce appraisals throughout the Atlanta metro area, including:
Q: Can I order the appraisal myself, or does my attorney have to?
A: Either party can initiate the appraisal. We often work with one or both parties, depending on how the divorce is structured.
Q: Can you appraise the home as of the date of separation?
A: Yes, we offer retrospective appraisals using historical data and MLS support.
Q: Will the court accept your appraisal?
A: Our reports are fully USPAP-compliant and meet legal standards for court use in Georgia.
Q: What if we don’t agree on the value?
A: In some cases, both parties obtain their own appraisals. We remain neutral and do not advocate for either side.
Don’t Wait — Deadlines Don’t Wait for You
Divorce is stressful enough. Waiting until the last minute to get an appraisal can cost you time, money, and legal footing.
We book on a rolling basis — and court season fills up fast.
Call today or request your appraisal online to lock in a valuation date before your deadline passes.
We guarantee fast turnaround times for verified divorce cases.
Need a Divorce Appraisal in Atlanta?
Get a certified, neutral appraisal that protects your equity and stands up in court.
Serving Atlanta & surrounding counties
Limited calendar availability — book before court deadlines.
Confidential. Professional. On time.
Request Your Divorce Appraisal Now
December 12 2025
Need a Divorce or Probate Appraisal in Atlanta? We’ve Got You Covered.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in delivering high-quality, court-compliant real estate appraisals across the Atlanta metropolitan area—serving homeowners, attorneys, CPAs, and real estate professionals with accurate and supportable valuation services for life’s most sensitive transitions.
Whether you’re navigating a divorce, handling an estate or probate, or need a date-of-death appraisal to settle tax and inheritance matters, our team brings clarity, compliance, and compassion to the process.
When Accuracy Isn’t Optional — It’s Essential
Dividing marital property fairly requires more than a Zestimate. Judges, mediators, and attorneys rely on defensible, third-party appraisals to guide fair settlements. We deliver USPAP-compliant reports that can withstand scrutiny—whether you’re working with an attorney, mediating directly, or preparing for court.
Executors, heirs, and estate attorneys count on accurate valuations to file tax returns, distribute assets, and resolve disputes. We provide retrospective date-of-death appraisals and current fair market value reports that meet IRS standards and simplify the process during a difficult time.
Pre-Listing or Pre-Purchase? We’ve Got That Too.
Planning to sell or buy? Get a pre-listing appraisal before putting your home on the market—or a pre-purchase appraisal before you submit your offer. We help FSBO sellers price strategically and buyers avoid overpaying. It’s about protecting your equity.
Certified & Licensed in Georgia
Court-Tested, IRS-Ready Reports
USPAP-Compliant and Defensible
Local Expertise: Atlanta Metro, Cobb, Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Fayette, Henry + More
Schedule Today — Limited Availability This Month
We’re currently booking out 5–7 days in advance, and Q4 is peak season for estate and tax appraisals. Don’t risk delays, penalties, or missed deadlines.
Guarantee: If your appraisal isn’t delivered on time, you get $50 off your final balance.
Bonus: Mention this blog and get a free 10-minute phone consult before booking—no strings attached.
December 10 2025
Need a Year-End Valuation in Atlanta? Work With Certified Local Appraisers Who Know Your Market.
As we approach the end of the year, many Atlanta homeowners, attorneys, real estate agents, and investors find themselves needing a supportable, certified appraisal — and fast. Whether it’s for legal filings, financial reporting, tax planning, or real estate investment decisions, REI Valuations & Advisory is here to provide accurate, defensible valuations backed by deep expertise in the Atlanta metro market.
We are licensed and certified appraisers, fully compliant with USPAP standards, and we serve the entire Atlanta area — including Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, Clayton, Henry, and surrounding counties. If you’re looking for a valuation that holds weight with attorneys, courts, tax professionals, or relocation firms, our team delivers with speed, precision, and professionalism.
What Kind of Year-End Valuations Do We Provide?
In a divorce, equitable division of property often depends on a clear and impartial appraisal. We provide certified divorce valuations that are fully supportable for mediation, court proceedings, and attorney documentation.
We work directly with family law attorneys and both parties involved.
Reports include detailed comp analysis, adjustment grids, and commentary.
We ensure that your home’s fair market value is represented accurately, without bias.
If you’re going through a divorce at year-end, timing is key. Courts and attorneys often need valuations dated on or before Dec. 31 for legal compliance.
2. Probate, Estate, and Date of Death Appraisals
If you’ve recently lost a loved one, we understand that you’re managing both emotional and legal responsibilities. A date of death (DOD) appraisal is often required to establish the property’s value as of the date the decedent passed, whether for:
Estate settlement and probate court filings
IRS reporting and step-up in basis
Heir distribution and asset documentation
Our team specializes in retrospective valuations, using historical sales data to determine accurate value as of the specific date required. We also assist CPAs, financial advisors, and estate attorneys with certified reports suitable for federal and state use.
Filing for bankruptcy involves full disclosure of assets — and that includes your real property. We offer supportable appraisals for Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 filings, working directly with clients or attorneys to meet court submission deadlines.
Reports meet trustee and court documentation standards
Neutral, third-party values (not inflated by emotion or assumptions)
Fast turnaround to meet filing schedules
4. Employment & Relocation Appraisals
Are you relocating for a job or transferring with a company before year-end? A relocation appraisal can help establish the fair market value of your home for:
Employee relocation programs
Internal buyout offers
Pre-sale planning and budgeting
We understand the urgency these moves require, especially before Q4 closes out. Our team delivers ERC 2010-compliant relocation reports upon request, in addition to standard summary format reports.
5. Investor-Focused: Flip, BRRRR, and Rental Property Valuations
Investors: if you’re preparing for year-end capital events, balance sheet updates, or 1031 exchanges, you need supportable valuations for your rental or flip portfolio. We provide:
Whether you’re locking in year-end profits, planning a refinance, or preparing for tax season, our investor-focused valuations help you make confident decisions.
6. Home Measurement Services (ANSI-Compliant)
In 2023 and beyond, accurate home measurements have never been more important. We offer home measurement reports that comply with ANSI Z765-2021 standards, which are now required by most lenders and are increasingly used in FSBO and agent-listing scenarios.
Ideal for listing agents, FSBO sellers, or homeowners disputing square footage
Professional sketches with gross living area clearly delineated
Can be bundled with a valuation if needed
7. Forensic & Retrospective Appraisals
Need to know what the value was on a prior date? Whether it’s for legal, tax, or dispute resolution purposes, we provide retrospective appraisals that hold up under scrutiny.
Common uses include:
IRS step-up basis
Tax appeals
Legal disputes
Portfolio reviews
We reconstruct market conditions, comparable sales, and valuation methodology as of the requested effective date.
Who We Serve Across the Atlanta Metro Area
We’re not just another appraisal company — we’re a specialized valuation firm built to support a range of real estate participants across Atlanta. We regularly work with:
Homeowners needing clarity for personal, legal, or financial reasons
Attorneys (family law, probate, bankruptcy) requiring defensible, court-ready reports
CPAs and financial advisors navigating IRS reporting or year-end filings
Real estate agents and brokers who need objective data for pricing or deal negotiation
Investors seeking BRRRR, flip, or rental valuations
Executors and fiduciaries responsible for estate and trust administration
Why Now Is the Time to Book Your Appraisal
Many legal and financial events require a valuation tied to a specific year-end date — typically December 31st or prior. Appraisals often take 5 to 7 business days, and court submissions, attorney deadlines, or CPA documentation follow closely behind.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Our year-end calendar is quickly filling up — especially for divorce, estate, and tax-related assignments.
Getting a certified appraisal from REI Valuations is simple:
Request a quote or schedule a consultation:
https://www.rei-valuations.com/home-appraisal-requestWe’ll confirm the intended use and effective date.
(e.g., “As of December 31, 2025” for year-end tax filings)We deliver your report within 5–7 business days, ready to be submitted to courts, attorneys, CPAs, or internal stakeholders.
Limited Year-End Availability — Schedule Now
We are only accepting appraisal requests through December 27th, 2025.
After that, our calendar closes for the holidays and we won’t be able to guarantee delivery before January 1st.
If your attorney, tax advisor, or financial planner needs a year-end value — or if you’re planning a transition before the new year — now is the time to lock in your spot.
Don’t wait. Click below to schedule your appraisal or consultation now.
Request a Year-End Appraisal Now »
December 7 2025
...
Why You Need a Divorce Appraisal to Protect Your Equity During a Property Division.
Divorce is never easy—but ensuring you receive your fair share of the home’s equity shouldn’t be another battle. Whether you’re working through an amicable separation or preparing for court proceedings, having an accurate, impartial home appraisal is one of the most important steps you can take during your divorce.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in divorce appraisal services across the Atlanta metropolitan area. We provide detailed, defensible valuations that can help settle disputes, support negotiations, and guide attorneys, mediators, and judges toward equitable property division.
Because in Georgia, real estate is often one of the largest marital assets—and if the value is off by even 5–10%, you could be walking away from thousands in equity. Zillow estimates, online guesses, and agent CMA reports simply don’t hold up when hard numbers are required in court or mediation. A certified appraiser offers a legally recognized opinion of value that can stand up to scrutiny.
We understand the emotional and financial stress that comes with divorce. That’s why we operate with professionalism, speed, and confidentiality—often delivering appraisals within days, not weeks.
Our divorce appraisal services help ensure that you receive what you’re entitled to—nothing more, nothing less.
Don’t rely on assumptions. Rely on actual value.
Request yours before our calendar fills up: Schedule Your Divorce Appraisal Now
December 5 2025
Maximize Your Home Sale: Why a Pre-Listing Appraisal is the Smartest First Move.
Before you list your home for sale in the Atlanta metro area, here’s a question worth asking:
Do you really know what your home is worth?
For homeowners preparing to sell one of their biggest assets, the stakes are high. Price your home too low—and you leave equity on the table. Price it too high—and it might sit on the market, leading to painful price reductions or lowball offers.
That’s where a pre-listing appraisal comes in—and why it’s one of the most valuable tools you can use before you hit the market.
Appraisers + Agents + Owners = The Right Price, The Right Strategy
A pre-listing appraisal isn’t just for agents. It’s a collaborative tool that empowers everyone involved—especially homeowners.
Homeowners gain clarity and confidence knowing the true market value of their home before they list.
Agents use the appraisal to set realistic pricing strategies, justify the list price to buyers, and avoid surprises during negotiations.
Appraisers bring an unbiased, data-backed perspective, independent of emotion or commission.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we work closely with both agents and sellers to make sure the valuation is supported, defensible, and timely. We understand the nuances of the Atlanta metro market—from Buckhead to Decatur, Marietta to McDonough—and we tailor our valuations accordingly.
Protect Your Equity. Maximize Your Opportunity.
Your home is likely your largest financial asset. A pre-listing appraisal helps ensure you’re not just pricing to sell—but pricing to win.
Get a realistic, third-party valuation
Avoid overpricing or underpricing traps
Sell with confidence backed by data
Protect your equity and peace of mind
Whether you’re working with a top-tier agent or selling FSBO, an independent appraisal ensures you’re walking into the process with your eyes wide open.
Based in Atlanta. Focused on You.
We’re a licensed real estate appraisal company serving homeowners across the Atlanta metropolitan area, specializing in non-lender appraisals for life events like divorce, estate planning, tax appeals—and yes, pre-listing preparation.
If you’re thinking about selling your home this season, don’t guess. Start with a valuation you can trust.
Full and Restricted-Use Reports Available
Get your pre-listing appraisal today
Let’s make sure your home sells for what it’s really worth.
November 25 2025
How to Find the Right Real Estate Appraiser in Atlanta — And Why Our Licensed Firm Is Built for It.
When you’re dealing with a complex real estate situation, the last thing you want is confusion about value. Whether you’re navigating probate, settling a divorce, preparing for bankruptcy, or supporting an immigration application, a reliable real estate appraiser can make or break the process.
But how do you find the right appraiser in a city as sprawling as Atlanta?
Let’s break it down.
What to Look for in a Real Estate Appraiser (Especially in Metro Atlanta)
Finding the right appraiser isn’t just about checking for a license (though that’s a must). It’s about choosing someone who:
Specializes in your unique situation (not just cookie-cutter lender appraisals)
Understands the local market — not just the city, but the nuances across Cobb, Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Clayton, Henry, and surrounding counties
Can explain value in plain English to attorneys, judges, CPAs, or government agencies when needed
Delivers fast, credible results backed by data and certification
Who We Are: Your Atlanta-Based Real Estate Valuation Partner
We’re a licensed real estate valuation company based in the Atlanta metropolitan area, and we specialize in helping homeowners, families, attorneys, and professionals navigate life’s most important (and often most stressful) property moments.
We provide certified real estate appraisals for:
These aren’t just one-size-fits-all appraisals — they are specialized valuation services tailored to the legal and financial realities of your situation. And we do them every week throughout the Atlanta metro.
Serving the Entire Atlanta Metro Area
We proudly serve all of Metro Atlanta, including:
Fulton
Cobb
DeKalb
Gwinnett
Clayton
Henry
Fayette
Rockdale
And surrounding counties
If it’s in the Atlanta metro, we’re likely already appraising there this week.
Free Situation Guides — Because Real Estate Isn’t Always Simple
Not sure what kind of appraisal you need? Wondering what documents are required? Need to explain the process to your attorney or loved ones?
We’ve created free, downloadable situation guides that walk you through:
Real estate problems don’t solve themselves — and vague, outdated, or biased valuations only make things worse.
If you’re dealing with any real estate matter where value plays a central role, let’s talk.
We’re licensed
We’re local
We specialize in life’s most complex valuation needs
And we’re here to help
Call us or request a quote now
Backed by experience, data, and integrity
November 23 2025
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.