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.
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 »
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
Not All Appraisals Are Created Equal — Here’s How We Handle Each Type
Real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all. Neither are appraisals.
Whether you’re going through a divorce, settling an estate, navigating bankruptcy, or preparing to list a property, the type of appraisal you need depends entirely on your situation. And if you want to get it right the first time — especially when legal or financial implications are involved — you need more than just an appraiser. You need one who understands the assignment type, the local market, and what’s at stake.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common appraisal assignments we handle at REI Valuations — and how we tailor each one to meet your needs.
Whether for internal family use or estate tax filings, estate appraisals often hinge on a retrospective “date of death” value. We dig deep into historical market data, zoning overlays, and condition adjustments to build a court-defensible report — so your CPA or attorney isn’t left guessing.
Probate court requires clear, impartial valuation — especially when multiple heirs are involved. We deliver certified, USPAP-compliant reports designed to stand up in court, with explanations your legal team can actually use.
Divorce is already complicated. We simplify the real estate side by providing neutral, independent valuations that help both parties and their attorneys understand what’s fair — without inflaming the conflict.
IRS Appraisals (Gift Tax, Step-Up Basis, etc.)
When the IRS is involved, documentation matters. We produce formal appraisal reports that meet the stringent requirements for gift tax, estate tax, or basis step-up valuations. These aren’t Zillow screenshots — they’re defensible, well-supported reports with full certifications.
Whether required by the court or part of your financial disclosure, we provide real-time fair market valuations that reflect the property’s condition and marketability — not inflated listings or investor hype.
Immigration & USCIS Appraisals
When your immigration process hinges on proving your net worth or assets, a certified real estate appraisal can make all the difference. We understand USCIS guidelines and produce appraisals suitable for submission with your application.
Listing too high? You risk sitting on the market. Too low? You leave money on the table. Our pre-listing valuations help homeowners and agents price properties confidently, backed by detailed comp analysis and market trends.
Before you buy, know what you’re walking into. We provide investor-style due diligence for buyers — especially helpful in private deals or FSBO transactions where no formal valuation exists.
Investment Property Appraisals
Rentals, flips, BRRRR — we work with investors every week to analyze ARV, cap rates, and market trajectory. Whether you’re looking to refinance, reposition, or divest, we help you make numbers-based decisions with confidence.
Every neighborhood is its own ecosystem.
An appraiser who understands zoning overlays in Cobb County, new development trends in Gwinnett, and investor behavior in Fulton is going to serve you better than a generalist flying in from out of town.
We’re based right here in the Atlanta region. We know what homes are worth — because we see them, value them, and inspect them every week. From Fulton to Forsyth, Douglas to DeKalb, this is our backyard.
Get a Valuation Built for Your Situation
No matter your reason — legal, financial, or personal — you need a valuation that’s credible, compliant, and customized to your needs.
Certified, USPAP-compliant reports
Built for attorneys, CPAs, investors, and homeowners
Ready to move forward with clarity?
Looking for an Appraiser Near You? Here’s What to Know About Local Land and Home Valuations
When you search for “appraiser near me” or “land appraiser near me,” it usually means you’re making an important decision — and you want trusted, local expertise to guide it.
Whether you’re buying land, selling a home, appealing taxes, planning an estate, or dividing property in a divorce, having the right appraiser in your corner can make a major difference.
So let’s break it down:
What Are You Really Looking For When You Google “Appraiser Near Me”?
You’re not just looking for anyone with a license — you’re looking for:
Local market knowledge — someone who knows the neighborhood and land values block by block.
Unbiased third-party support — an appraiser who’s not working for the buyer or seller, but for the truth.
Experience with your type of property — whether that’s raw land, residential homes, rental properties, or something more unique.
Clear, defensible reports — whether for court, IRS, tax appeal boards, or buyers and sellers.
At REI Valuations & Advisory, that’s what we deliver — every time.
We Specialize in Local Land and Home Appraisals
We’re one of the few independent firms in the Atlanta area that specializes in both:
If you’re evaluating land for a future build, or need a defensible value for a probate or legal situation, we can help.
We proudly serve clients across the greater Atlanta region, including:
…and surrounding cities and towns throughout North Georgia
If you’re not sure whether you’re in our service area, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to confirm.
Why “Near Me” Still Matters in Appraisal Work
In an age of digital everything, geography still matters — especially in real estate.
Valuations can vary dramatically just across neighborhood lines, zoning districts, or school zones. Online tools like Zestimate or Redfin can’t capture those nuances — but a qualified local appraiser can.
We bring boots-on-the-ground knowledge, combined with the latest market data, to help you make confident, well-informed decisions.
Need an Appraiser Near You? Let’s Talk.
Whether you’re dealing with a unique parcel of land, a family estate, a pending legal matter, or just need peace of mind — we’re here to help.
REI Valuations & Advisory offers fast, professional service with a clear, client-focused process from start to finish.
Serving Metro Atlanta and Surrounding Counties
Email: reivaluations@gmail.com
October 19 1:30pm
Do Home Appraisers Go Inside? What You Need to Know About Appraisals, Costs, and Expert Services in Atlanta.
If you’re navigating a property transfer, estate settlement, divorce, tax matter, or preparing to sell an investment home, chances are you’ll need a credible, professional home appraisal. But what exactly does that process involve? Does a home appraiser go inside the property? How much does it cost? And what if you need a valuation that stands up in court?
At REI Valuations & Advisory, we specialize in non-lender residential appraisals for homeowners, attorneys, investors, and fiduciaries across the Atlanta metropolitan area. Let’s walk you through some of the most common questions we hear and how we can help.
A home appraisal is a professional opinion of value performed by a state-licensed real estate appraiser. Unlike a Zestimate or an agent’s CMA, an appraisal is an independent, USPAP-compliant analysis that factors in market data, property condition, legal rights, and more. It’s the gold standard for credible valuations, especially when legal, financial, or tax decisions are involved.
Yes — in most cases, a home appraisal requires an interior inspection. While some desktop or exterior-only appraisals exist, a full interior inspection provides the most accurate valuation. This includes measuring the home’s square footage, noting the layout, condition, upgrades, and any deferred maintenance.
At REI Valuations, we conduct detailed walk-throughs, take measurements, photos, and document features that affect marketability — whether it’s a dated kitchen or luxury bathroom remodel. We also offer home measurement-only services when you just need an accurate sketch or GLA (gross living area) verification.
What Are Home Appraisal Costs in Atlanta?
The cost of a home appraisal varies depending on complexity, property type, intended use, and turnaround time. For example:
Standard homeowner appraisals (pre-listing, FSBO, estate planning): $450–$900
Complex or multi-family properties: $500–$750
Urgent / expedited requests: Additional fees may apply
Expert witness assignments (divorce, litigation): $450–$1,200+
We provide tiered pricing and custom quotes based on each assignment’s scope. No lender overlays. No hidden fees.
Atlanta Estate Tax Appraisers & Probate Valuations
Estate and probate appraisals are a core focus of our practice. If you’re settling an estate or filing IRS Form 706 or 709, you’ll need a retrospective appraisal — often dated back to the date of death. These must be USPAP-compliant, defensible, and properly documented.
We’ve worked with CPAs, fiduciaries, and probate attorneys throughout Atlanta to provide estate tax valuations that meet IRS standards and timelines. We also serve as expert witnesses if values are ever questioned.
Expert Witness Appraiser & Litigation Support
In complex legal matters — like divorce disputes, partnership dissolutions, or zoning challenges — having an expert witness appraiser is critical. Our team at REI Valuations is experienced in providing written reports, courtroom testimony, and rebuttals when valuation disputes arise.
We don’t just appraise — we consult, defend, and explain. When necessary, we’ll walk your attorney through every comp, adjustment, and method used in the appraisal, whether it’s Sales Comparison, Cost, or Income Approach.
Real Estate Consulting for Investors
We also work with real estate investors who want more than just a number. Whether you’re flipping a house, renting a duplex, or developing land, we provide strategic insights like:
As-is vs. after-repair values
Income approach analysis for rental properties
Zoning and land-use studies
Feasibility consulting for value-add projects
Our goal is to give you an honest, market-based valuation that helps you make smarter investment decisions.
Does Every Appraisal Include an Interior Walkthrough?
Most do — but not always. Here’s how we break it down:
Full Appraisal (Interior + Exterior) – Standard for most private uses
Desktop Appraisal – No inspection, based solely on public data (limited use)
Drive-by / Exterior-Only – Visual exterior assessment only (limited credibility)
Measurement-Only – For square footage verification without value opinion
If you’re unsure what type you need, we’ll help you figure it out during the intake process.
Why REI Valuations & Advisory?
We’re not a mass-volume lender shop. We specialize in non-lender, legal-grade, private-use appraisals. Our appraisers are Atlanta-based, state-licensed professionals with deep market knowledge, sharp analytical skills, and courtroom experience. We’re committed to independent, credible, and unbiased valuation work, tailored to your exact use case.
We proudly serve:
Need an Appraisal? Let’s Talk.
Whether you’re dealing with probate, divorce, estate tax, or simply planning to sell your home or investment property, we’re here to help. Call us, text us, or request a quote today.
Email: reivaluations@gmail.com
October 15, 2025 6:00pm
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
Your 2025 Guide to Home Appraisals, IRS Valuations, and Real Estate Consulting in Atlanta
When it comes to understanding property values—whether you’re settling an estate, planning for divorce, appealing property taxes, or preparing to buy or sell—working with a qualified residential real estate appraiser is essential. At REI Valuations, we provide expert, court-defensible reports for a wide range of valuation needs across Atlanta, Georgia.
In this guide, we’ll break down key services like date of death and IRS appraisals, investment property valuations, expert witness testimony, and consulting for investors—while also covering the average cost of home appraisals in 2025 and what to expect when working with a local appraisal company near you.
What Is a Date of Death or IRS Appraisal?
A Date of Death Appraisal is a formal residential valuation used to establish the fair market value of a property as of the date someone passed away. These reports are commonly required for:
We prepare both retrospective and current fair market valuations, with careful attention to IRS guidelines and USPAP compliance. These are also known as IRS appraisals or estate appraisals, and they’re crucial for avoiding tax penalties or future disputes.
Learn more about probate and estate appraisals in Atlanta.
Investment Property Appraisals & Real Estate Consulting
If you’re a real estate investor, whether flipping, renting, or holding, getting an accurate valuation can mean the difference between profit and loss. Our investment property appraisals help with:
In addition to valuations, we offer real estate consulting services that include:
These services are designed for investors who want more than a number—they want a roadmap.
How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost in 2025?
The average cost of a home appraisal in 2025 depends on the complexity, purpose, and property type. Here’s what you can typically expect in the Atlanta metro area:
A standard single-family home appraisal usually ranges from $450 to $650.
Divorce appraisals often cost between $500 and $750, depending on report detail and complexity.
Probate or estate appraisals generally fall between $500 and $850, especially if IRS compliance or retrospective valuation is needed.
Tax appeal appraisals are usually around $400 to $700, based on county requirements.
Investment property appraisals may run from $550 to $950, particularly if multiple units or income analysis is involved.
Expert witness and testimony services are available upon request and quoted individually depending on the scope of the case.
Expert Witness Testimony & Forensic Appraisals
Need a valuation expert witness for court or arbitration? Our appraisers are trained to provide clear, unbiased, and well-supported opinions for:
We also provide forensic appraisal services for cases involving suspected deed fraud, misrepresentation of value, or improper transfers. All reports are built with expert-level narrative analysis, charts, and supporting documentation.
Explore expert witness and litigation support services.
Divorce, Probate, and Local Residential Appraisals in Atlanta
We specialize in high-sensitivity valuation services including:
Divorce appraisals: Clear, third-party valuations for equitable division
Probate appraisals: IRS and court-compliant valuations for estate settlement
Pre-listing and FSBO appraisals: Set the right price before you list
PMI removal appraisals: Eliminate unnecessary mortgage insurance
As a local appraisal company in Atlanta, our deep market knowledge ensures you get a realistic, supportable value based on the latest market trends—not just a number spit out by a national firm.
We’re not just appraisers—we’re valuation experts who serve homeowners, attorneys, investors, and financial professionals across the Atlanta metro area. When you search for a “valuation company near me,” we aim to be the local expert you can trust for:
We handle all types of non-lender residential appraisals—whether for legal, financial, or strategic planning purposes.
Whether you need a Date of Death Appraisal, a divorce valuation, or a consultation on your next flip or rental, our team at REI Valuations is ready to help.
Serving all of Atlanta, GA and surrounding counties
Call us at 4046923878
Request your home appraisal now
September 30th 2025