Why an Appraisal?

To many, an appraisal just looks like another fee in the long list of items for a home sale or refinance. And while there are a number of automated home valuation methods that may appear more cost-effective than an appraisal, lenders still procure a local expert. The stakes in real estate are incredibly high. 
Is securing a mortgage the only basis for getting an appraisal? Are there other cases when the services of a certified, independent real estate professional could be helpful?
Of course there are.

Obtain a clear valuation on property to make settlements less stressful

A divorce is an especially daunting ordeal for the parties involved, and it is often more complicated by the difficult decision of who keeps the residence. Thus, it might be a good idea to order an appraisal from Passage Appraisal, LLC so that both parties are fully aware of the true market value of their property, regardless of the circumstances.

If the parties wish to sell the home, they'll have a clearer picture of what price to set. And if a 'buyout' is the chosen option, both parties might thus 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 real estate involved.

We guarantee the fullest degree of discretion.  Appraisers are bound with confidentiality by the ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

Most Americans don't have dedicated estate planners or executors to manage these decisions. A home or other property often makes up a disproportionate share of the total estate value, so understanding the true worth of the real estate at hand is of essential importance to ensuring disputing parties walk away knowing they've received an honest deal.

Moving to or from a Washington State county through an employee relocation program

Employee relocation can be a stressful event.  That is understood. And, we take great care in establishing an accommodating appointment time for the appraisal inspection. During our inspection, we suggest relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive characteristics of their property, along with information about any current sales or listings in their neighborhood that they want to be considered.

Sell your home quickly — for the right price

Whether you choose to sell your home on your own or use the assistance of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal will help you make a more informed decision regarding the 'asking price.' An appraiser has no vested interest in what the house sells for. Our fees depend on our efforts to complete the appraisal report and and aren't related to what the sales price ends up to be.

On a daily basis, we determine the difference in value items like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. We're also experts in knowing how long houses stay on market. So, seeking a professional appraisal is a reliable way to determine what improvements will add value and what an appropriate sales price might be for your home so that you don't come up short or have your house on the market for an unnecessarily long period of time.