Atlanta’s Trusted Appraisal Services — From Divorce & Date of Death to Step-Up Basis & Immigration Valuations.
When life events call for clarity, accuracy, and fast turnaround, the right real estate appraiser makes all the difference.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in delivering timely, court-compliant appraisals for homeowners, attorneys, CPAs, and real estate professionals across the Atlanta metropolitan area — from Alpharetta to Decatur, Marietta to McDonough, and everywhere in between.
What Types of Appraisal Services Do We Offer?
1. Date of Death Appraisals (Step-Up Basis)
Losing a loved one is difficult enough — navigating tax implications shouldn’t be. We provide IRS-compliant retrospective appraisals for estate and inheritance purposes, helping heirs establish an accurate step-up basis on inherited property. This is essential for reducing capital gains when selling the home later.
Whether the passing occurred recently or years ago, we can backdate valuations to the required “date of death,” giving attorneys and CPAs the data they need to file confidently.
2. Divorce Appraisals Near You
Dividing real property during a divorce demands objectivity and accuracy. We deliver neutral, well-supported appraisals that hold up under legal scrutiny — ideal for mediation, court hearings, or attorney negotiations. We serve clients throughout Atlanta, Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, Clayton, Henry, and surrounding counties.
3. Immigration Sponsorship Appraisals
If you’re sponsoring a family member or filing immigration documents that require a property asset valuation, we provide compliant appraisals that meet USCIS requirements. These reports are often needed as part of Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) or when demonstrating real estate holdings.
4. Expert Witness Appraisal Services
Sometimes, a written report isn’t enough. We also offer expert witness testimony in litigation matters — from divorce to tax disputes to estate challenges. Our certified appraiser is prepared to defend the value with clarity, confidence, and professionalism in depositions, hearings, or courtrooms.
Whether you’re listing a property, challenging square footage discrepancies, or updating tax records, our ANSI-compliant home measurement services ensure accuracy. We use advanced tools to measure GLA (gross living area), finished basements, ADUs, and more — especially useful for real estate agents and FSBO sellers.
Appraisal Costs: What Should You Expect?
Appraisal fees vary depending on the property type, complexity, and intended use. However, our typical appraisal costs range from:
We offer transparent pricing, flat-fee quotes, and tiered service options — including restricted-use reports when full appraisals aren’t needed.
Areas We Serve Across Metro Atlanta:
If you’re searching for a “real estate appraiser near me” — we’ve got you covered. We proudly serve:
We also provide remote consulting and PDF-based report delivery for clients outside the metro who need our expertise.
Act Now — Limited Appraisal Slots Available Weekly
Whether you’re facing a legal deadline, prepping for a tax season filing, or simply need peace of mind — don’t wait. We only accept a limited number of appraisal assignments each week to ensure fast delivery and white-glove service.
Spots fill fast — especially during Q4 tax prep and year-end probate filings.
Book your appraisal consultation today and receive a customized quote within 24 hours.
Request Your Appraisal Quote Now
Lock in your slot before Friday at noon to guarantee next-week delivery.
Availability is first-come, first-served — don’t risk missing your deadline.
November 13 2025
Why a Professional Appraisal Is Critical — No Matter the Circumstance.
In real estate, decisions rarely come without emotion, urgency, or complexity.
Whether you’re settling a loved one’s estate, navigating a divorce, reviewing an investment property, or sponsoring a family member’s immigration case — accurate property valuation is not optional. It’s foundational.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in delivering impartial, legally-defensible appraisals tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Here’s how we help you move forward with confidence — no matter the situation:
Date-of-Death Appraisals (Step-Up Basis)
When someone passes away, the IRS requires a fair market value as of the date of death to establish a new tax basis. This affects future capital gains taxes and inheritance planning. We provide USPAP-compliant retrospective valuations that can stand up to scrutiny from attorneys, CPAs, and the IRS.
Expert Witness & Forensic Appraisals
Litigation demands clarity. We offer expert witness testimony, detailed forensic appraisal analysis, and court-ready reports for legal disputes — including divorce, partition suits, and appraisal rebuttals. Our reports are crafted to withstand depositions and cross-examination.
Certain immigration cases — especially those involving family sponsorships or I-864 Affidavits of Support — require proof of asset value. We provide affordable, fast-turnaround appraisals that meet USCIS documentation standards.
Investment Property Valuations
Whether you’re buying, selling, or analyzing an income property, we provide unbiased value opinions to guide your acquisition strategy, tax planning, or dispute resolution. Our appraisals often include rental analysis and market trend insights.
Why Appraisals Matter — Beyond the Transaction
Real estate is one of the most significant financial and legal assets most people will ever touch. And yet, people make six-figure decisions based on:
An appraisal gives you clarity — a grounded, third-party opinion of value that’s independent of pressure, bias, or emotion. Whether you’re:
At REI Valuations, we’re more than just a number on a report. We help homeowners, attorneys, CPAs, and investors make sound decisions with confidence — backed by experience, ethics, and evidence.
If you’re navigating a complex real estate situation, reach out today. Let’s make sure you’ve got the clarity you need to move forward.
Request a consultation or appraisal quote today at www.rei-valuations.com/home-appraisal-request
November 11 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.
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
What Is a Home Appraisal — And Why the Right Appraiser Matters for Expert Witness, Land, and Estate Valuations in Atlanta.
When most people think of a home appraisal, they picture someone walking through a property with a clipboard, jotting down square footage and sales comps. But in today’s real estate landscape — especially here in the Atlanta metro — appraisal services go far beyond basic valuation. Whether you’re facing legal proceedings, settling an estate, splitting property in a divorce, or evaluating land for development, choosing the right appraiser is critical.
A home appraisal is a professional, unbiased opinion of value — typically used to inform financial, legal, or transactional decisions. Licensed and certified appraisers analyze local market data, recent comparable sales, physical property characteristics, zoning, and more to produce a detailed written report. But not all appraisals are created equal.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in non-lending, high-stakes valuations where accuracy, compliance, and clarity are essential.
Expert Witness Appraiser Services: When You Need Valuation to Stand Up in Court
Legal cases — from divorce and probate to tax appeals and bankruptcy — often require an expert witness appraiser who can not only develop a credible opinion of value, but also defend it under oath.
As experienced expert witness appraisers, we are frequently retained for:
Divorce litigation (equitable distribution of marital real estate)
Probate court (date of death valuations for heirs)
IRS audits (retrospective estate tax appraisals)
Property tax appeals and disputes with county assessors
Our reports are built to withstand cross-examination — and we offer courtroom testimony and deposition services when needed.
Atlanta Estate Tax Appraisers: Retrospective Valuations for IRS and Legal Use
If you’ve been named the executor or trustee of an estate in Georgia, you’ll likely need a retrospective date-of-death appraisal to establish the fair market value of the property for tax purposes.
As Atlanta estate tax appraisers, we prepare USPAP-compliant reports that align with IRS standards and Georgia probate court requirements. Our estate appraisals include:
Date-of-death effective value
Market-supported adjustments
Clear, defensible narratives
Compliance with 26 CFR § 20.2031-1(b)
We work closely with attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries to deliver appraisals tailored for IRS filings, asset division, or litigation.
Home Measurement Services Near You: Square Footage Clarity You Can Trust
Accurate square footage is the foundation of property value — but MLS data and tax records are often wrong. Our home measurement services provide precise, ANSI-compliant measurements you can rely on for:
Pre-listing accuracy
FSBO marketing
GLA disputes with assessors
Design, renovation, or zoning applications
If you’re searching for “home measurement services near me”, we offer next-day scheduling in Fulton, Cobb, DeKalb, Gwinnett, and surrounding counties.
Land Appraisers Near Me: Know What Your Dirt Is Worth
Vacant land is one of the trickiest property types to value — and it requires a specialized skillset. Whether you’re:
Selling or purchasing a raw parcel
Estimating land value for estate or tax purposes
Evaluating development potential
Disputing county-assessed land value
We offer detailed land appraisals that consider zoning, utility access, topography, setbacks, flood zones, and infrastructure. So if you’ve been Googling “land appraiser near me”, we’ve got you covered.
Real Estate Consulting: Not Just an Appraisal — A Strategy
Many of our clients don’t just want a number — they want guidance. That’s where our real estate consulting services come in. We help homeowners, investors, attorneys, and estate administrators:
Understand value trends
Navigate zoning or highest and best use issues
Plan sale, partition, or tax strategies
Avoid common pitfalls in complex real estate matters
We’re not real estate agents or advocates — we’re impartial valuation experts who help you make smarter, more informed decisions.
Appraiser Near Me? Choose Local Expertise That Goes Beyond the Report
Whether you’re looking for an appraiser near you to handle a complex legal matter, a straightforward home measurement, or a land value opinion, the right professional makes all the difference.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we serve clients across the Atlanta metro, including:
Our reports are clear, compliant, and court-ready — and our process is built around service, speed, and precision.
Need an appraisal or consultation?
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or request a quote. Whether it’s for estate, divorce, tax, land, or measurement purposes — we’re here to help.
Request a Home Appraisal in Atlanta »
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
Certified & Licensed Real Estate Appraisers in Atlanta: Serving the Metro Area with Professional Valuation Services.
When searching for a certified real estate appraiser near you in the Atlanta metropolitan area, it’s important to find a professional who is not only licensed but also understands the complexity and nuance of each unique assignment type. At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in delivering accurate, impartial, and court-ready valuation services throughout Atlanta and the surrounding counties.
Why Working with a Certified or Licensed Appraiser Matters
Whether you’re a homeowner, attorney, executor, or investor, hiring a licensed real estate appraiser in Georgia ensures that your property valuation is:
Accepted by courts, tax authorities, and government agencies
Based on local market expertise and deep knowledge of Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods and submarkets
Our team is state-certified, and we stay up to date with the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board’s latest licensing standards and compliance requirements.
Real Estate Appraisal Services We Offer in Metro Atlanta
We don’t just provide appraisals — we solve problems. Our real estate valuation services are custom-tailored to your situation. Common assignment types include:
Accurate, impartial valuations built for equitable distribution in contested or uncontested divorce cases.
Date-of-death appraisals for estate settlement, inheritance, or IRS tax purposes. We work closely with estate attorneys and personal representatives.
Set the right asking price before listing your home — whether you’re working with an agent or selling by owner (FSBO).
Property Tax Appeal Appraisals
Challenge a high property tax assessment with an independent valuation that meets county appeal standards.
Get a defensible property value for bankruptcy filings — we provide reports used by trustees, courts, and attorneys.
Home Measurement / ANSI-Compliant Sketches
Ensure accurate square footage with our professional measurement services, following the ANSI Z765-2021 standard.
Land Appraisals & Investor Reports
We also offer vacant land appraisals and ARV market analysis reports for flippers, landlords, and builders.
We proudly serve the entire Atlanta metro area, including:
Why Clients Choose REI Valuations & Advisory
Need a Certified Appraiser in Atlanta?
If you’re looking for a licensed or certified real estate appraiser near Atlanta, we’re here to help. From family law and estate cases to tax appeals and investment analysis — we deliver valuation clarity when it matters most.
Call us now or request a quote online:
www.rei-valuations.com/home-appraisal-request
October 28 2025 8:00pm
Searching for a Property Appraiser Near You? Here’s How to Find the Right Fit for Your Needs
Whether you’re preparing to sell, settling an estate, appealing your property taxes, or simply curious about your home’s value — at some point, you’ve probably typed “property appraisers near me” into a search bar. And you’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners, investors, and attorneys across Georgia are looking for credible, local experts who can deliver more than just a number — they want clarity, professionalism, and a valuation that holds up under pressure.
But here’s the thing: not all appraisers are the same.
And not every appraisal is created equal.
What Should You Look for in a Local Appraiser?
When searching for a licensed or certified real estate appraiser in your area, you want someone who:
Our Approach: Tailored Appraisal Services Built Around Your Situation
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all reports. Every assignment starts with a short conversation to understand your goals — whether you’re a homeowner, attorney, investor, or executor.
We offer:
Residential Home Appraisals for divorce, estate, pre-sale, tax appeal, or refinancing.
Land Appraisals for investors, builders, and property owners evaluating raw or improved parcels.
Court-Ready Reports for legal proceedings requiring detailed valuation support.
And because we’re based right here in the Atlanta metro, we know this market like the back of our hand. We serve Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Cobb, Clayton, Henry, and surrounding counties — and we’ve appraised everything from in-town bungalows to rural acreage.
Looking for a Certified Appraiser in Your Area?
You don’t have to guess your home’s value. And you don’t have to settle for a national company that outsources your assignment.
Let’s talk about your situation — and we’ll tell you exactly what type of appraisal makes sense.
Call or text us directly, or
Submit your request at www.rei-valuations.com/home-appraisal-request
We respond fast, work locally, and treat every client with care.
Octobor 26 8:00pm
Divorce Appraisals in 2025: Fast, Fair, and Focused on Your Outcome.
When you’re going through a divorce, time and clarity matter.
Emotions are high. Decisions are complex. And getting the right valuation can be the difference between prolonged conflict — and a smoother path forward.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in divorce appraisals built specifically for legal clarity, fairness, and fast resolution. Our process is streamlined, our reports are court-ready, and our entire focus is on helping you move forward with minimum stress and maximum confidence.
Why Divorce Appraisals Require a Specialized Approach
Not all appraisals are created equal. Divorce cases require:
Clear, defensible reporting that can stand up in court or mediation
Defined value dates — often retrospective (past) or current fair market value
Fast turnaround, without sacrificing accuracy or professionalism
That’s why you don’t want a generalist. You need an appraiser who understands the process and the stakes.
What Makes Our Divorce Appraisals Different
At REI Valuations & Advisory, divorce appraisals are not just a service we offer — they’re a specialty we’ve built systems around. Here’s what you can expect:
Quick Turnaround: Most reports are delivered within 3–5 business days
Low Friction: Clear pricing, online booking, and minimal back-and-forth
Designed Around Your “Dream Outcome”
What every client wants is simple:
That’s exactly what we focus on. We don’t just deliver appraisals. We deliver clarity — so that emotions don’t cloud facts, and decisions don’t stall because of uncertainty.
We remove the guesswork. So your attorney doesn’t have to.
Built for 2025: Fast. Private. Reliable.
We’ve designed our entire process around today’s realities:
No wasted time. No unclear fees. No outdated methods.
Serving the Atlanta Metro and Beyond
We proudly serve the Atlanta metro area and surrounding counties, and we’re trusted by:
Whether you’re the petitioner, respondent, or legal counsel — if you need a fair and defensible home valuation for divorce purposes, we’re here to help.
Ready to Get the Clarity You Need?
Your next step is simple. Click below to request your divorce appraisal — or call/text us directly if you have questions about your unique situation. We’re here to help you move forward, not get stuck.
October 24 7:00pm
7 Key Things CPAs Need to Know About Step-Up in Basis Valuations for Estate Tax Filings.
When preparing estate tax filings, CPAs are often responsible for coordinating real estate valuations that support the stepped-up basis of inherited property. Accurate and well-supported valuations are essential — not only to avoid audit delays but also to ensure clients are in the best possible tax position.
Here are 7 important considerations to keep in mind when ordering real estate appraisals for estate and tax purposes:
1. Ensure the Appraisal Meets IRS Standards
For IRS purposes, valuations should be performed by a licensed or certified real estate appraiser and must comply with USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice). This ensures that the report includes the proper certifications, methodology, and documentation expected in tax-related filings.
Best practice: Always confirm the appraiser is familiar with estate and retrospective reporting standards.
2. The Effective Date Must Reflect the Date of Death
For step-up in basis purposes, the valuation must estimate the property’s fair market value as of the decedent’s date of death — not the current date. This is known as a retrospective appraisal.
Example: If the decedent passed away in October 2022, the appraisal must analyze market data relevant to that specific point in time.
3. Online Estimates and AVMs Are Not Sufficient
While tools like Zillow or Redfin provide general estimates, they do not meet the documentation or credibility standards required for IRS reporting. They cannot account for condition, market nuances, or retrospective dates.
Important note: AVMs are helpful for rough planning but shouldn’t be used for official filings.
4. Appraisals Should Clearly Support the Reported Value
When the IRS reviews an estate filing, they expect a real property valuation that is well-documented, clearly explained, and supported by market data. A high-quality report will include comparable sales, adjustments, and commentary that make the opinion of value easy to follow.
Best practice: Look for reports that are transparent in their analysis and include all necessary exhibits, especially when attached to IRS Form 706 or 1041.
5. Each Property Should Be Evaluated Independently
If the estate includes multiple real properties, each one should be evaluated on its own merits. This ensures accuracy and helps provide a clear, supportable basis for each asset in the estate.
Efficiency tip: Coordinating all properties with one qualified firm can streamline the process and improve consistency.
6. Property Condition and Unique Features Matter
An accurate valuation must consider more than square footage and location. It should reflect the property’s physical condition, updates or repairs needed, and any unique features that affect marketability or value.
Why it matters: An objective analysis helps ensure the step-up value aligns with fair market expectations and avoids over- or under-valuation.
7. Local Market Experience Is Incredibly Valuable
Every market is different — from neighborhood trends to buyer behavior. Appraisers with local expertise can better identify appropriate comparable sales, make informed adjustments, and explain their conclusions in a way that stands up to scrutiny.
Professional tip: Ask whether the appraiser specializes in your market area and has experience with retrospective and estate-related work.
Closing Thought: Partnering with the Right Appraiser Adds Value
As a CPA, the goal is to provide accurate, defensible filings that protect your clients. A well-supported appraisal is a key piece of that puzzle — especially when dealing with stepped-up basis valuations.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in providing clear, compliant, and timely appraisals for estate tax, probate, and retrospective reporting across the Atlanta metro. If you’re looking for a local appraisal partner who understands the unique needs of CPAs and fiduciaries, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to assist.
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