Reasons to get an appraisal from A. M. Appraisals

To many, an appraisal just looks like one more thing on the break-sheet for a home purchase or refinance. And even though there are a developing number of automated home valuation systems that might seem less expensive than an appraisal, most lenders still call for a local expert because the stakes are incredibly high. You might believe that securing a mortgage is the only basis for getting an appraisal, but there are other situations when the services of a certified, independent real estate professional could be helpful.

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Dispute your tax assessment in Lexington County

It's probable you're paying too much in property taxes if you reside in an area where property values have depreciated. Property taxes are based upon a previous assessment of your real estate, so if prices have declined in your area, you can challenge your assessment and save money. An appraisal from A. M. Appraisals is your best evidence when building your case. We can assist you in disputing your tax assessment.

Get rid of PMI to lower your mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an added insurance policy that most lenders ask home buyers to purchase when the amount being loaned to the buyer is more than 80% of the actual value of the property. Seeing that extra payment is usually bundled into the monthly mortgage payment, it is often forgotten. PMI isn't required when the remainder of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - goes below the 80% level, making this very unfavorable. In fact, the Homeowners Protection Act (HPA) of 1998 was implemented by the United States Congress requiring lenders to do away with the PMI installments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met.

A. M. Appraisals will produce a statement regarding the value of your home, and the cost of the home valuation can usually be regained in just a few months because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

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Get a clear valuation on a home for divorce settlements

A divorce is often complicated by the difficult decision of who keeps the home, and it can be an especially traumatic occurrence for both parties. Regardless of the situation, it's a good idea to order an appraisal from A. M. Appraisals so both parties are entirely aware of the true market value of their property.

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

Ascertain an accurate and fair valuation for estate liquidation

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

Most Americans do not have dedicated estate planners or executors to take care of these matters, unlike many wealthy individuals. 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 essential importance to ensuring disputing parties leave knowing they've received a fair deal.

Relocate to or from Lexington County through an employee relocation program

We know the stress involved with an employee relocation. That's why we take great care in establishing a convenient appointment time for the appraisal inspection. During our detailed inspection, we encourage relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive features of their property, as well as information regarding any recent sales or listings in their area that they want considered.

Sell your home promptly — at an accurate price

Whether you want to sell your home on your own or use the assistance of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal will help you make a better educated decision regarding your asking price. An appraiser has no vested interest in what amount the house sells for, apart from real estate agents. Our fees rest on our efforts to complete the appraisal report and not a percentage of the sales price.

On a daily basis, we examine the difference in value things like an additional bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. Obtaining a professional appraisal is a reliable way to determine what improvements will add value and what an appropriate sales price is for your home so you don't come up short or have your house on the market an unnecessarily long time, because we're experts in knowing how long properties stay on the market.

Let A. M. Appraisals help you sell your home quickly at the right price

Do you need some extra cash?

We can determine the value of your property so that the bank or mortgage company of your choice will know how much money to loan you. This is typically an essential step in the loan process.

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