Finding the Right Appraiser For Your Estate Liquidation Sale
An appraiser isn't an inspector, but the right appraiser should understand the general condition of the estate. They know how to accurately value a property based on its condition, foundation, and other key features. A fair and accurate assessment is essential to any successful liquidation sale — and to keeping buyers happy.
Hiring an Appraiser
Screening several potential appraisers, asking the right questions, and checking credentials will make sure you hire the right one. Here are a few tips to make the choice as smooth as possible.
1. Experience
If you're selling a single-family home in a small suburban neighborhood, an appraiser who specializes in condos may not be the right fit. You need someone with real experience appraising your type of property.
2. Recommendations
Do your research before choosing. A good place to start is asking local real estate agents for recommendations — an appraisal is typically part of the estate liquidation process, so agents know the local appraiser landscape, who will take good care of you, and who to stay away from.
3. Ask the right questions
Know which questions to ask based on your estate's needs. If you need a value for a property tax appeal, for example, you need a consumer-based appraiser. Someone familiar with your county's methodology understands how to factor in neighborhood variables and environmental factors that influence values in your area.
4. Talk to several appraisers
You want someone competent and capable of valuing your estate accurately. Discuss pricing, training, licenses and certifications. Conversations with several appraisers make it much easier to tell who is right for the job and who to pass on.
5. Confirm credentials
The Appraisal Subcommittee's National Registry exists for a reason — you can confirm an appraiser's license or certification there, filtering by name, license number, or location. Licensing history is also available through the Maryland Office of Real Estate Appraisers.
You want someone with experience, a good reputation, a personable manner and openness to your questions, and credentials you can verify. When the time comes to choose an appraiser for your estate liquidation sale, take it from us — years of watching this process play out — you'll be glad you took the steps to hire the right one.
For more information on Sanford & Son's services, or a free estimate, call us at 443-223-8036.