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
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?
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
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.
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.
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 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.
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:
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
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
Your Go-To Appraisal Experts in Atlanta: Comprehensive Valuation Services by REI Valuations.
At REI Valuations, we specialize in accurate, defensible real estate valuations for homeowners, attorneys, investors, and real estate professionals across Metro Atlanta. Whether you’re involved in a legal matter, a property transaction, or an investment decision, we offer specialized appraisals tailored to your exact needs. Here’s a breakdown of the many services we provide — and why they matter.
Property Tax Appeal Appraisals
If your tax assessment feels inflated, we provide certified appraisal reports to support your appeal and potentially lower your property taxes. Our reports are defensible, data-driven, and tailored to meet your county’s appeal standards.
Building a new home or investment property? We provide as-is, as-complete, and hypothetical condition appraisals to help with builder financing, investor projections, or resale planning.
Investment Appraisals (Flips & Rentals)
We offer specialized valuations and consulting for flippers, landlords, and investors. Whether you’re analyzing ARV, BRRRR strategy, cash-out refinance, or portfolio value — we help quantify the upside (and risks).
Whether you’re planning ahead or managing a loved one’s estate, we provide date-of-death appraisals and retrospective valuations for IRS, CPA, or legal documentation — fully USPAP-compliant.
Need an accurate sketch of your home’s gross living area (GLA)? Our ANSI-aligned home measurement services are ideal for agents, FSBO sellers, and homeowners wanting accurate square footage data before listing.
We handle divorce appraisals with professionalism and sensitivity. Our neutral, third-party valuations help ensure equitable property division — whether through attorneys, mediation, or court.
Before you hit the market, we help determine the real market value of your home — not just what online estimates say. This helps you price strategically and avoid costly days on market.
Filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13? You’ll likely need a certified appraisal of your real property. We provide valuations that meet trustee and court documentation requirements.
Also known as retrospective appraisals, these determine market value as of a prior date — often required by the IRS for estate settlement and capital gains tax basis. A critical service for heirs and executors.
Expert Witness Testimony & Litigation Support
Need someone to stand behind their value in court? We’re qualified to provide expert witness services in legal disputes involving value, damages, equitable distribution, partition, and more.
Flip & Rent Investment Consultations
Not just appraisers — we’re advisors too. We offer investor consultations to help you analyze renovation potential, ARV, income cap rates, or hold/sell decisions on single-family and small multifamily properties.
Forensic Appraisals (Deed Fraud, Title Fraud, etc.)
If you suspect fraud or title misrepresentation, we provide forensic valuation support to attorneys and property owners — including historical valuations and credibility analysis of opposing reports.
We offer as-is and “quick sale” valuations to assist with REO dispositions, foreclosure defense, short sale negotiations, and distressed asset planning.
Immigration Sponsorship Appraisals
For USCIS Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), we provide home appraisals that verify the sponsor’s real estate assets. Our reports meet immigration attorney and USCIS documentation requirements.
Want to eliminate your Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)? We provide appraisals to help you prove to your lender that your loan-to-value (LTV) has dropped below the required threshold.
Buying a home without a lender or just want a second opinion? Our pre-purchase appraisals help buyers make confident, data-backed offers — especially in competitive markets.
If you’re moving for work or relocating across state lines, we can provide appraisals for corporate buyouts, relocation reimbursements, and decision-making support during time-sensitive moves.
Real Estate Consulting Services
Need objective guidance that goes beyond a traditional appraisal? We offer hourly consulting on market trends, land value analysis, price negotiation strategy, and development feasibility.
Why Clients Across Atlanta Trust REI Valuations
Whether you’re facing a legal issue, a major life event, or an investment decision, our firm offers clear, accurate, and defensible appraisals — backed by experience, professionalism, and integrity.
Certified, Local Expertise
USPAP-Compliant Reports
Fast Turnaround Times
Trusted by Attorneys, CPAs, and Homeowners
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re appealing taxes, planning a flip, or preparing for court — we’ve got you covered.
→ Request Your Appraisal Today
September 25, 2025
What Is a Home Appraisal? How It Works, What to Expect, and Why It Matters !
If you’re asking “What is a home appraisal?” — you’re not alone.
It’s one of the most searched real estate questions online, especially among homeowners, buyers, and sellers who want to understand how property values are determined.
This blog explains exactly what a home appraisal is, how it works, and what to expect when an appraiser visits your house — including whether or not they go inside. Whether you’re preparing to sell, settle an estate, navigate a divorce, or appeal your property taxes, this guide gives you the insight you need.
A home appraisal is a professional, unbiased estimate of a property’s fair market value, conducted by a state-licensed or certified appraiser.
It’s based on:
The property’s condition, size, and layout
Location and neighborhood characteristics
Comparable recent sales (also called “comps”)
Market trends in your area
Most commonly, appraisals are used in mortgage transactions — but they’re also critical in:
If you’re searching for “what is an appraisal of a house?” or “what does a home appraiser do?” — the short answer is: they protect you from overpaying, underpricing, or misjudging a home’s true worth.
Yes — in a full residential appraisal, the appraiser typically enters the home and completes a detailed interior and exterior inspection.
Here’s what they’ll look at:
Square footage (based on ANSI measurement standards)
Room count and layout
Condition of kitchen, bathrooms, roof, HVAC, and flooring
Renovations or deferred maintenance
Quality of materials (granite countertops, custom trim, etc.)
Site features (garage, basement, patio, etc.)
Functional obsolescence (awkward layouts, odd conversions)
The inspection helps answer the question, “Do appraisers look inside the house?” — and the answer is yes, unless a desktop or drive-by appraisal is being done for limited purposes.
How Does a Home Appraisal Work?
Understanding how a home appraisal works can reduce stress and prepare you for what’s ahead.
Here’s a simplified breakdown:
The Appraiser Is Hired
A client (lender, attorney, homeowner, or investor) engages an appraiser to complete a report with a defined scope and intended use.The Property Is Inspected
The appraiser visits the home, takes notes and photos, and gathers key property characteristics.Comps Are Selected
Using local MLS data, public records, and appraisal tools, the appraiser identifies recent comparable home sales (similar size, location, and condition).Adjustments Are Made
The appraiser adjusts for differences between the subject and comps — such as size, garage count, age, condition, or features — to estimate a credible market value.The Report Is Delivered
A detailed PDF appraisal report is generated, containing property data, market analysis, comp adjustments, maps, photos, and the appraiser’s final opinion of value.
What’s the Difference Between Real Estate Consulting and a Home Appraisal?
This is a great question — and it comes up a lot when people search for “real estate consulting”.
A real estate consultant may offer market insights or general advice, but not a legally defensible valuation.
A home appraisal, on the other hand, is a USPAP-compliant, unbiased report that can be used in court, tax disputes, divorce settlements, and more.
If you’re facing a legal, financial, or tax-related event, you need a licensed appraiser, not a consultant.
When Do You Need a Home Appraisal?
There are many situations where getting a home appraisal is not just helpful — it’s essential. If you’re going through a divorce, you’ll need an appraisal to ensure the real estate is fairly divided between both parties. If you’re dealing with a probate case or settling an estate, an appraisal is often required to determine the home’s fair market value as of the date of death. This helps with IRS reporting and ensures heirs receive an accurate accounting of the estate.
If you’re selling your home without a realtor — known as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) — an appraisal can help you price the home correctly from the start. For property tax appeals, an appraisal provides credible evidence if you believe the county has over-assessed your property. Investors often request appraisals to validate values on rental properties, confirm after-repair values (ARVs), or analyze a property’s cash flow potential. Lastly, cash buyers often order appraisals as a second opinion to ensure they’re not overpaying on off-market deals.
In all of these cases, a professional appraisal brings peace of mind, legal credibility, and a stronger foundation for smart real estate decisions.
Final Thoughts: Why Appraisals Matter
A home appraisal isn’t just a number — it’s a decision-making tool.
When you hire a licensed appraiser, you’re getting a professional who is legally and ethically bound to deliver a credible, impartial opinion of value, free from outside influence.
Whether you’re working with a divorce attorney, executor, realtor, or just exploring your options — an appraisal gives you the clarity and leverage you need to move forward with confidence.
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We specialize in non-lender home appraisals across the Atlanta metro area, including:
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