Why obtain an appraisal from Acton Appraisals?

To a lot of us, an appraisal is simply one more thing in the long list of items for a home sale or refinance. And while there are a multiplying number of automated home valuation processes that may appear less expensive than an appraisal, almost all lenders still want a local expert because the stakes are very high. But is getting a mortgage the only reason to acquire an appraisal? Are there other situations when the services of a certified, independent real estate professional could come in handy? Absolutely.

When you're planning on any transaction where the value of your real estate is in question, contact Acton Appraisals. Just click here

Dispute your tax assessment in Douglas County

If you reside in an area where the value of property has declined, it's possible you're paying too much in property taxes. An appraisal from Acton Appraisals is your best evidence when building your case. At Acton Appraisals, we're qualified to assist you in challenging your tax assessment.

Acton Appraisals can help you get rid of PMI to lower your mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an additional insurance policy that nearly all lenders ask homebuyers to purchase when the amount being loaned to the home owner is more than 80% of the actual value of the real estate. This extra payment is often folded into the monthly mortgage payment and is promptly forgotten. This is unfavorable because PMI becomes unnecessary when the remaining balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - dips below the 80% mark. In fact, the Homeowners Protection Act (HPA) of 1998 was approved by the United States Congress that requires lenders to do away with the PMI installments when the balance is paid down to 78% of the original value.

If you'd like to do away with PMI, Acton Appraisals can give you a statement regarding the value of your home. The cost of the home valuation can usually be offset in a short amount of time because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

Settling a divorce with less stress

A divorce is a particularly daunting ordeal for the parties involved, and it is often further complicated by the burdensome decision of who keeps the home. Regardless of the situation, it's a good idea to get an appraisal from Acton Appraisals so both parties are entirely aware of the true market value of their house.

If the parties want to sell the home, they'll have a clearer picture of what price to set. And on the flip side, if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've gotten a fair evaluation.

Fair and accurate estate liquidation with Acton AppraisalsSettling an estate

The loss of a loved one is a difficult time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often entails an appraisal to establish Market Value for the real estate involved. The ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) binds us with confidentiality, guaranteeing the utmost degree of discretion.

Most Americans do not have dedicated estate planners or executors to take care of these matters, unlike wealthy individuals. And seeing that a home or other property often makes up an unequal share of the total estate value, knowing the true value of the real estate at hand is of essential importance to ensuring disputing parties walk away knowing they've received an honest deal.

Acton Appraisals can assist you in relocating to or from Douglas County

We are familiar with the headaches involved with an employee relocation. That's why we take great care in organizing a convenient appointment time for the appraisal inspection. During our thorough process, we recommend relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive attributes of their property, as well as information regarding any current sales or listings in their neighborhood that they want considered.

Sell your home quickly at the right price

Whether you choose to sell your home on your own or with the help of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal can help you make a better educated decision regarding your selling price. An appraiser has no vested interest in what amount the house sells for, which is different than the interest of real estate agents. Our fees are calculated on our efforts to finish the appraisal report and and aren't related to the sales price.

On a daily basis, we examine the difference in value things like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. And we're experts in knowing how long homes stay on the market. So, obtaining a professional appraisal is a trusted way to determine what improvements will add value and what an applicable sales price is for your home so you don't come up short or have your house on the market for an extended amount of time.