Preparing for a Home Appraisal: A Guide for Homeowners
If you’re selling, refinancing, or navigating a home equity process, an appraisal is a must. While appraisers are trained to remain unbiased and follow strict guidelines, there are some steps you can take as a homeowner to prepare for a home appraisal — and help ensure the that your home is presented in the best […]
How Much Does an ADU Increase Property Value?
On average, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) can increase property value by 20-30%. That means if your home is valued at $500,000, adding an ADU could increase its value by $100,000 to $150,000. ADUs — such as granny flats, in-law suits, or backyard cottages — provide much-needed space and flexibility for today’s changing family dynamics, making […]
Why Speed Matters in Property Valuations & How It Benefits You
Imagine this: You’re in the middle of a messy divorce, settling a loved one’s estate, or moving to a new home. You’ve got attorneys, paperwork, and endless phone calls to juggle—and now, you’re being told you need a property valuation. You’re stressed and on a tight deadline with no time to waste. Now imagine you […]
Eminent Domain & the Role of Real Estate Valuations
As a homeowner, the idea of losing your property to eminent domain can be unsettling. Many property owners are left wondering if the compensation they receive is truly fair—or if they have any options to fight the process. In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of eminent domain and why an independent real […]
What to Expect for Real Estate in 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, a mix of evolving economic factors, shifting demographics, and changing consumer behaviors will continue to define the real estate market. Let’s explore key 2025 real estate trends to watch and what you can expect in the housing market over the next year. Rising Home Sales The housing market will stay […]
How Often Should I Get a Property Valuation?
How frequently you may need a property valuation report depends on the type of property. In general, here are some property valuation guidelines. Residential: Every 1-3 years Commercial: Every 1-2 years Agricultural: Every 1-5 years, depending on the nature of the property However, if you’re actively buying, selling, refinancing, or going through any type of […]
Understanding Your Real Estate Valuation Options
When you think of a real estate appraisal, what words come to mind? “Time consuming” and “expensive” are likely toward the top of the list for many. Appraisals can take a long time — 3+ weeks in many cases. This isn’t ideal in many situations where time is often of the essence, such as during […]
Benefits of Putting a House in a Trust
As you consider long-term estate planning, understanding the benefits of putting your house in a trust is essential. A trust can provide peace of mind, protect your assets, and simplify the property ownership transition to beneficiaries. Let’s break down how a trust works and why it’s important. What Is a Trust and How Does It […]
Date of Death and Alternate Valuation Date: What to Know
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy. On top of the emotional toll, there are many financial and legal matters to sort out. Knowing your options can help ease the burden during a tough time. One major part of settling an estate is figuring out how much your loved one’s property […]
Valuing Property in a Divorce: What to Know
Divorce is an emotional and challenging time, often marked by difficult decisions and complex negotiations. One of the most significant assets to address is your family home or other real estate properties and investments. These assets carry not only significant financial value but also deep emotional ties, making the valuation process a critical—and often contentious—aspect […]