How to Find Real Estate Appraisal Information Resources

What does a real estate appraiser do?A real estate appraiser simply determines the value of property. They decide the market value, generally of a home, for the purposes of buying and selling. A real estate appraiser must be legally certified to evaluate property as much of the process involves both federal and/ or state regulations. Here are some steps to find appropriate resource information.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Local and long-distance telephone services
• Internet access
• Pen, paper and pencil
• Telephone book

Find Real Estate Appraisal Resource Information

1. Determine your needs. There are many different types of appraisals and a city or county tax assessor office might be a good place to start. Know you will have to prepare a bit before an appraisal can actually take place. Be informed about issues such as: surveys, purchase property information (generally three years back), property and maintenance agreement documents and tax bills.
2. Contact your county or city services. Most appraisal information can be found on county web sites or even at your own city hall. If you go online to your city web site, you can generally find good resources by typing in “real estate appraisal” directly into the search field.
3. Find a Home Owner’s Association. Real estate developers create these types of associations for the sole purpose of community access. Home Owner Association members sometimes share expenses between themselves to lower or defer certain home-related costs. If the association does not have what you need, go to homeowners directly.
4. Use a telephone book. Many real estate appraisal services may not charge for initial consultations. You can also try to contact a real estate agent directly. The Yellow Pages will have a large array of resources and information.
5. Contact a lender. Many credit unions, banks or other lenders have their own directories. The best way to get fast information is to go to your own member services.

Tips & Warnings

• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a good resource for finding appraisal information. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is another good resource, as well.
• Check newspaper classifieds.
• Call your local newspaper. Many reporters will gladly share information with you.
• Beware of solicitors.