Reasons to consider an appraisal from Astute Appraisals, Inc.

Each year, thousands of people in Maryland purchase, sell or refinance their home. Many of these transactions include a simple line item for an appraisal. Most lenders still need a local expert because the stakes are incredibly high, even though there are a multiplying number of automated home valuation processes that may appear to be less expensive than an appraisal. Is obtaining a mortgage the only reason to get an appraisal? Are there also times when the services of a licensed, independent real estate professional might be beneficial? Absolutely.

Let Astute Appraisals, Inc. assist you in lowering your mortgage payment

Challenge your tax assessment

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 prices are less than what they used to be in your neighborhood, you can appeal your assessment and save money. An appraisal from Astute Appraisals, Inc. is your best evidence when building your case. We're qualified to assist you in disputing your tax assessment.

PMI removal to lower your mortgage payment

When the amount being loaned to the homebuyeris more than 80% of the actual value of the property, many lenders ask buyers to purchase this added insurance policy. That policy is Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI. Since the additional payment is usually bundled into the monthly mortgage payment, it is often forgotten. This is unfortunate because PMI isn't necessary when the leftover balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - falls below the 80% level. In fact, the Homeowners Protection Act (HPA) of 1998 was passed by the United States Congress that requires lenders to dismiss the PMI payments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met.

If you'd like to get rid of PMI, Astute Appraisals, Inc. can produce a statement regarding the value of your home. The cost of the home valuation can often be recovered in a short amount of time because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

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Divorce settlement with fewer hang-ups

A divorce is often complicated by the difficult decision of who gets the house, and it can be a very traumatic ordeal for both parties. So both parties are fully aware of the true market value of their home, it's a good idea to order an appraisal from Astute Appraisals, Inc., regardless of the situation.

The parties will have a better idea of what price to set, if they wish to sell the home. And if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've received a fair assessment.

Ascertain a fair and accurate 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 entails an appraisal to establish Fair Market Value for the residential property involved. We ensure the utmost degree of discretion, as we're bound with confidentiality by the ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

Unlike wealthier individuals, most Americans do not have dedicated estate planners or executors to manage these matters. And since a home or other property often makes up an unequal share of the total estate value, knowing the true value of the real estate at hand is of significant importance to ensuring disputing parties leave knowing they've gotten a fair deal.

Move to or from Howard County for work

Employee relocation is a stressful event, and we understand. That's why we take great care in setting up an accommodating appointment time for the appraisal inspection. We encourage relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive aspects of their property, as well as information about any new sales or listings in their neighborhood that they want considered during our detailed inspection.

Sell your home promptly — at an accurate price

A professional appraisal can help you make a better educated decision regarding your asking price, whether you decide 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 aren't related to the sales price, but rather they depend on our efforts to finish the appraisal report.

On a daily basis, we determine the difference in value items like an additional bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. And we're experts in knowing how long housesstay on the market. So, obtaining a professional appraisal is a trusted way to decide what improvements will add value and what a suitable sales price is for your home so you don't come up short or have your house on the market an unnecessarily long time.

Let Astute Appraisals, Inc. help you sell your home quickly at the right price