Appraisals

Selling and refinancing your house at a fair value depends on getting an accurate appraisal of what your property is worth. Whether you are in the market to buy a house, thinking about refinancing, or just curious about your home’s value, you should look to an experienced appraiser. If you are buying or refinancing a home, your lender will select an appraiser for you. Appraisers are licensed or certified by the state and certify that their documentations comply with the Code of Appraisal Practice of the Appraisal Institute.

Knight Appraisal has the experience you can trust. You’ll find friendly customer service, in-depth knowledge of the industry, innovative technology and a commitment to quality and professional service. We are a leading provider of real estate valuations for the mortgage-lending marketplace in the what? area. With over how many? years of experience in the business, we have a proven track record of reducing lenders time, efforts and costs in managing the appraisal process.

Our service areas include:

Auburn, Opelika, Alexander City, Lake Harding, Lake Martin

Here are some of the top Questions Asked

Q : What is the role of the appraiser?

A : The appraiser will come to your property to make an inspection. He or she then determines the value and prepares a report. If contracted by your lender, the report will then be sent to the lender. From this, the lender makes a determination if the appraised value of the property is adequate collateral for the loan.

Q : What will the appraiser look at during the inspection?

A : The appraiser will make note of the overall condition of both the interior and exterior of the property and take measurements and photographs. When preparing the report, he adds value for any updates you’ve made or remodeling and subtracts value for things like worn floor coverings, peeling paint and things that are in need of obvious repair. He then compares your property to other similar, recently sold properties in the same or similar neighborhoods and then makes a comparison. Variables like location, age, condition, landscaping, view, square footage, and any amenities like a pool or spa, and garages are all taken into consideration.

Q : What should I do to prepare for an appraisal?

A : Preparing the property for an appraisal will guarantee your property receives the most accurate value.

1. 1. Get your documents together. Prepare to provide the appraiser with any of the agreements the property has with the surrounding properties, such as agreements for a driveway, shared rights for a dock or waterfront property and any property restrictions such as a conservation deed.
2. If the property is a condominium or part of co-op or homeowners association provide the appraiser with a list of collective expenses and upkeep fees.
3. Roll up you sleeves and finish those repairs! If you’ve been putting off replacing torn screens or patching up holes in walls, now’s the time to do it. The property should be cleaned and the landscaping tended to so that things are in tip-top condition before the appraiser arrives.
4. Are there any enhancements that might not be obvious during the inspection? Have you installed an underground sprinkler system or added specialty insulation? Or was your home built from green building materials? These are things you’ll want to be sure and point out to your appraiser.