profile picture

Why obtain an appraisal from Mike Fowler Appraisals?

To many, an appraisal is simply one more thing in the long list of items for a home purchase or refinance. And even though there are a growing number of automated home valuation methods that might seem more cost-effective than an appraisal, practically all lenders still need a local expert because the stakes are very high. But is obtaining a mortgage the only basis for getting an appraisal? Are there additional instances when the services of a licensed, independent real estate professional could come in handy? Of course.

For real estate appraisals in Wynne and Cross County, it's easiest when your order online from Mike Fowler Appraisals, just click here.

Let Mike Fowler Appraisals help you dispute your tax assessment in Cross County

It's possible you're paying too much in property taxes if you reside in an area where property values have declined. Ad Valorem taxes are determined by a previous assessment of your home, so if values have declined in your neighborhood, you can appeal your assessment and save money. An appraisal from Mike Fowler Appraisals is your best evidence when building your case. We're qualified to assist you in challenging your tax assessment.

Let Mike Fowler Appraisals help you lower your mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an added insurance policy that nearly all lenders ask home owners to buy when the amount being loaned to the home owner is more than 80% of the actual value of the property. This extra payment is often bundled into the monthly mortgage payment and is quickly forgotten. PMI isn't necessary when the remainder of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - falls below the 80% level, making this very unfavorable. In fact, the United States Congress passed a law in 1998 (the Homeowners Protection Act of 1998) that requires lenders to dismiss the PMI installments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met.

Mike Fowler Appraisals will provide you with a statement regarding the value of your home, and the cost of the home valuation can often be offset in a short amount of time because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

Settling a divorce with less stress

A divorce is often complicated by the troublesome decision of who maintains the home, and it can be a particularly heartbreaking experience for both parties. So both parties are fully aware of the true market value of their house, it's a good idea to order an appraisal from Mike Fowler Appraisals, regardless of the circumstances.

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

Fair and accurate estate liquidation

The death of a loved one is a hard 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, ensuring the utmost degree of discretion.

Unlike many wealthy individuals, most Americans don't have dedicated estate planners or executors to take care of these affairs. 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 vital importance to ensuring disputing parties leave knowing they've gotten an honest deal.

Let Mike Fowler Appraisals help you with relocating to or from Cross County

Moving due to a job change can be a stressful event, and we understand. That's why we take great care in setting up a convenient appointment time for the appraisal inspection. During our intensive process, we recommend relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive aspects of their property, as well as information about any current sales or listings in their area that they want considered.

Don't sell out short or keep your home on the market too long.

A professional appraisal will help you make a better educated decision when determining your asking price, whether you choose to sell your home on your own or use the assistance of a real estate agent. Unlike a real estate agent, an appraiser has no vested interest in what price the house sells for. The price we charge isn't related to the sales price, but rather they are calculated on our efforts to complete the appraisal.

We examine the difference in value items like an additional bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make on a daily basis. Seeking a professional appraisal is a trusted way to decide 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 homes are one the market.