Reasons to order an appraisal

To many, an appraisal is simply one more thing in the long list of items for a home purchase or refinance. And even though there are an increasing number of automated home valuation methods that might seem more practical than an appraisal, practically all lenders still call in a local expert because the stakes are very high. But is obtaining a mortgage the only reason you should get an appraisal? Are there additional cases when the services of a certified, independent real estate professional might come in handy? You bet.

Order appraisals online from First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc. by simply clicking here.

Let First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc. help you dispute your tax assessment in Palm Beach County

It's likely you're paying too much in property taxes if you reside in an area where property values have declined. Ad Valorem taxes are based upon a previous assessment of your real estate, so if values have gone down in your area, you can appeal your assessment and save money. An appraisal from First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc. is your best evidence when building your case. At First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc., we're equipped to assist you in challenging your tax assessment.

Removing PMI will lower your mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an extra insurance plan that many lenders ask home owners to buy when the amount being loaned to the homebuyer is more than 80% of the actual value of the property. This additional payment is often lumped into the monthly mortgage payment and is soon forgotten. This is damaging because PMI is no longer required when the remaining balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - goes below the 80% level. In fact, the United States Congress invoked a law in 1998 (the Homeowners Protection Act of 1998) that requires lenders to remove the PMI installments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met.

If you'd like to get rid of PMI, First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc. will give you a statement regarding the value of your home. The expense of the appraisal can often be offset in just a few months because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

Settling a divorce with less stress

A divorce can be a very traumatic experience for both parties, and it is often further complicated by the burdensome decision of who keeps the property. It's a good idea to order an appraisal from First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc. so both parties are entirely aware of the true market value of their house, regardless of the situation.

The parties will have a clearer picture of what price to set, if they need to sell the home. And if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've gotten a fair assessment.

Accurate and fair estate liquidation

Losing a loved one is a hard time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often requires an appraisal to establish Market Value for the residential property involved. The ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) binds us with confidentiality, ensuring the highest degree of discretion.

Unlike wealthier individuals, most Americans do not have dedicated estate planners or executors to manage these affairs. A home or other property often makes up a disproportionate share of the total estate value, so knowing the true value of the real estate at hand is of vital importance to ensuring disputing parties walk away knowing they've gotten a fair deal.

Let First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc. assist you in relocating to or from Palm Beach County

We are familiar with the headaches associated with an employee relocation. That's why we take great care in organizing an accommodating appointment time for the appraisal inspection. During our thorough process, we encourage employees that are moving to provide remarks on the positive characteristics of their property, as well as information regarding any new sales or listings in their area that they want considered.

Sell your home quickly at the right price with an appraisal from First Choice Appraisal Services, Inc.

A professional appraisal will help you make a more informed decision when determining your asking price, whether you want to sell your home on your own or use the assistance of a real estate agent. An appraiser has no vested interest in what price the house sells for, unlike real estate agents. Our fees depend on our efforts to perform the appraisal report and not a percentage of the sales price.

On a daily basis, we analyze the difference in value things like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. And we're experts in knowing how long homes are on the market. So, seeking 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 an unnecessarily long time.