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.

And we realized something…

Most people just want to know where to start.

They want to avoid mistakes.

They want to make the right decision — before they commit.

That’s why we built this:

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.

What You’ll Find

Each guide includes:

And they’re tailored to your situation — not just a generic real estate article.

Confused About What You Need?

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


We release a limited number of these guides each month, and several include time-sensitive checklists tied to court dates, tax appeal deadlines, or filing timelines.

If you’re dealing with one of these situations, download the guide that matches your case — and request your appraisal early.

Slots fill quickly during busy seasons, and we only accept a limited number of court-sensitive jobs each quarter.

Explore the Free Guides Now

November 6 2025

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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?

A Date of Death Appraisal is a professional, retrospective valuation of a property based on its market value as of the date the deceased owner passed away.

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:

“Do we really need this?”

“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.

Who We Serve

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

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Do Appraisers Go Inside the Home? What You Need to Know About Interior Inspections, Measurements & Expert Valuations in Atlanta.

If you’re a homeowner in Atlanta—or working with an estate attorney, tax professional, or family law specialist—you may be wondering:

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.

Atlanta Estate Tax Appraisals

Need a date-of-death appraisal for estate settlement or IRS Form 706?

Our certified appraisers specialize in Atlanta estate appraisals, providing:

We serve Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, DeKalb, and surrounding counties—and understand the sensitive nature of estate-related work.

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.

Final Thoughts

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

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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:

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:

Divorce Appraisals

Accurate, impartial valuations built for equitable distribution in contested or uncontested divorce cases.

Probate & Estate Appraisals

Date-of-death appraisals for estate settlement, inheritance, or IRS tax purposes. We work closely with estate attorneys and personal representatives.

Pre-Listing & FSBO Appraisals

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.

Bankruptcy Appraisals

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.

Areas We Serve

We proudly serve the entire Atlanta metro area, including:

We frequently complete assignments in cities like Atlanta, Decatur, Marietta, Smyrna, Sandy Springs, East Point, Alpharetta, College Park, and more.

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


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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:

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.

What Is a Divorce Appraisal?

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:

Pricing varies depending on:

All of our valuations are USPAP-compliant, court-defensible, and tailored for attorneys, CPAs, fiduciaries, and homeowners navigating sensitive legal matters.

What’s the Process?

We keep the process simple, professional, and fully documented:

  1. Initial Consultation
    We’ll discuss your needs, deadline, and whether the appraisal is for IRS, probate, divorce, or another legal purpose.

  2. Property Inspection
    A physical walkthrough of the home, including photos, measurements, and condition notes.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Follow-Up Support
    We remain available to explain findings, assist with legal review, or provide expert witness support if the matter goes to court.

Why These Appraisals Matter

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.

Contact us at : 4046923878

Request an Appraisal Now

October 12, 2025 5:00PM


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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:

How to Schedule a Home Measurement

We offer flexible appointments and quick turnaround for urgent listing deadlines. Our process is simple:

  1. Initial Call – We learn your needs, property type, and timeline.

  2. On-Site Visit – We conduct the measurement in person using laser tools and best practices.

  3. 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

Request a Measurement Online

October 8th 2025

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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.

What is a home appraisal?

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.

Market conditions and appraiser availability: In peak seasons or high-demand areas, fees may be higher due to limited appraiser availability. This is especially true if you’re requesting rush service or a quick turnaround.

Effective date requirements: Retrospective appraisals—such as those needed for divorce, probate, or IRS purposes—often require historical data and a deeper level of research to determine what the property was worth as of a past date. This adds to the complexity and cost.

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 appraisals in 2025

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.

Land appraisals in Atlanta

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:

Land appraisals typically cost less than home appraisals (often in the $300–$500 range for basic lots), but larger tracts or development parcels require deeper research and can exceed $750 depending on scope.

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


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How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost in Atlanta?

Understanding local pricing, what influences it, and how to choose the right appraiser


If you’re preparing for a real estate transaction, dealing with a divorce, handling probate, or even protesting your property taxes, you’ve probably asked yourself:

“How much does a home appraisal cost in Atlanta?”


It’s a fair question—and the answer can vary depending on your situation.

Average Home Appraisal Costs in the Atlanta Metro Area

In the Atlanta metropolitan area, the typical cost for a standard single-family home appraisal ranges from $375 to $700, depending on:


  • Size and complexity of the property

  • Intended use (e.g., divorce, estate, tax appeal, pre-listing, etc.)

  • Location/accessibility (Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Clayton, Gwinnett, etc.)

  • Turnaround time (rush orders cost more)


    For example:


  • A small, typical home in East Point or Forest Park might fall near the lower end of the range.

  • A unique or larger property in Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, or Decatur may require a more in-depth analysis and cost more.

  • Specialized use cases like probate or divorce appraisals often include additional reporting or documentation requirements, which can affect pricing.

Why the Range?

Not all appraisals are created equal. Here’s what might influence your quote:


  1. Property Type: Condos, single-family homes, or multi-family units can require different levels of analysis.

  2. Intended Use: Appraisals for legal purposes (e.g., court testimony, IRS compliance) must meet stricter standards.

  3. Report Format: Some clients request restricted-use reports (like our new [Home Value Audit service]) vs. full narrative appraisals.

  4. Timeframe: If you need a 24- to 48-hour rush, there’s typically a surcharge.


How to Get an Accurate Quote



At REI Valuations, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all pricing. Instead, we offer free consultations to help you understand exactly what type of appraisal you need—and what it should cost—based on your property and your situation.


Whether you’re in Brookhaven, College Park, Marietta, or Lawrenceville, we’re happy to review your needs and provide a transparent quote.

Independent. Impartial. Local.

As certified residential appraisers, we serve the entire Atlanta metro area with independent, unbiased appraisals for:


We bring deep local knowledge, proprietary valuation methods, and fast turnaround times—without cutting corners.


Ready to Know What Your Home Is Really Worth?

Whether you’re in Roswell, South Fulton, Stone Mountain, or Peachtree City, we’re here to help.


Request your home appraisal today or call/text us directly for a custom quote.

404-692-3878


Let’s bring clarity to your next big decision.





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How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost — And What Do Appraisers Actually Look For?

When you’re preparing to get your home appraised, the first question most homeowners ask is:

“How much is this going to cost me?”

And the second is:

“What exactly does the appraiser look for?”

This guide breaks down both — so you know what to expect and how to prepare.

How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost?

The cost of a home appraisal typically ranges from $350 to $600 in the Atlanta area, but it depends on a few factors:

  • Property size and complexity — Larger or custom homes take longer to evaluate.

  • Purpose of the appraisal — Divorce, estate, FSBO, or pre-listing appraisals may have different fee structures.

  • Turnaround time — Need it in 48 hours? You’ll likely pay a rush fee.

  • Location — Travel distance and market variability can affect pricing.

At REI Valuations, most of our appraisal assignments fall within the $400–$500 range depending on complexity.

For more details, check out our previous blog:

How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost in Atlanta?

What Do Appraisers Look for During a Home Appraisal?

Appraisers aren’t guessing — they’re following a standardized process to determine fair market value. Here’s what they evaluate:

1. 

The Home’s Condition

We inspect the structure, materials, and quality — from roof to foundation. Key things we look at:

  • Signs of deferred maintenance (peeling paint, cracked windows, leaks)

  • Quality of finishes (countertops, flooring, cabinetry)

  • Age and condition of HVAC, roof, and major systems

2. 

Functional Layout

We don’t just count bedrooms — we look at how the space flows. A functional layout with a centralized living area, private bedrooms, and a standard floor plan typically supports higher value.

3. 

Square Footage (GLA)

Gross Living Area (GLA) is a major factor in valuation. Finished basements may not count the same as above-grade living areas.

4. 

Upgrades and Renovations

Renovated kitchens, bathrooms, or energy-efficient systems can increase marketability — but not always dollar-for-dollar.

5. 

Comparable Sales (Comps)

We analyze recent, nearby sales of similar homes — adjusting for size, condition, and features — to determine a fair and unbiased opinion of value.

Want a deeper breakdown?

Here’s what to expect during your appraisal walkthrough.

Can You Influence the Appraisal?

You can’t change the market — but you can help the process go smoothly:

  • Have a clean, accessible property.

  • Provide a list of improvements made with dates and costs.

  • Be present to answer questions (but don’t hover).

Related Resources

Need a Professional Appraisal?

Whether you’re going through a divorce, settling an estate, planning a sale, or appealing taxes — we provide independent, impartial appraisals trusted by homeowners across Atlanta.

Local.

Accurate.

Unbiased.

Request your appraisal today

Wondering what appraisers actually look for?

Here’s a full breakdown

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