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Writer's pictureAngie Clarke

What is an Appraisal? Why is an Appraisal Done?



Are you concerned about making sure that you are getting the right value for your real estate purchase? Do you have questions regarding the appraisal process and why it is necessary? The concept of an appraisal might be daunting, but understanding how it works can help you feel more assured in your decision to invest.


An appraisal is a professional assessment of the worth of a certain piece of property based on factors such as location, condition, and market trends. It provides vital information about an investment so buyers know what they are paying for and sellers understand their property's true value. In this blog post, we will explore what an appraisal is, who orders them during the escrow process, and why having one done is important when navigating a real estate transaction.


What is an appraisal and why do you need one during the real estate escrow process


When buying or selling Utah real estate and using a lender, an appraisal is a necessary step in the escrow process. An appraisal is an educated estimate of the value of a property that is conducted by a licensed appraiser. The appraiser will typically take into account factors such as location, size, recent comparable sales data, and current market trends to come up with a reliable market valuation on the property.


Orders for appraisals generally come from lending institutions who need to be sure that they are granting credit based on an accurate value of the collateral. As such, it is important to have an appraisal during real estate transactions in order to ensure fair market value for all parties involved.


How does an appraiser determine the value of a property


An appraisal is an important part of the Utah real estate purchase process when a buyer is using a loan to finance their property purchase. It involves a professional appraiser evaluating a property to determine its market value. The appraiser takes into account various factors such as location, recent sales prices in the area, structural characteristics and condition of the property, original cost of land and construction, current condition of home improvements, and other features that can affect value. By taking these factors into account, along with their expertise, appraisers are able to provide an accurate appraisal report that can assure a fair market price for Utah real estate buyers.


It is important to note that the appraisal company and appraiser, is a third party to the transaction, and they are supposed to provide an objective professional opinion of value free from influence of the buyers or the sellers.


What are some common techniques used by appraisers to assess the market value of a home


The appraisal process is completed by a qualified appraiser who carefully reviews and analyzes a variety of data, using methods such as comparison to similar properties, cost approach and income capitalization, in order to come up with an accurate estimation of the current market value. These techniques help appraisers determine how much money lenders can be comfortable loaning for the purchase given its current market value.


Common misconceptions about appraisals that every buyer should know


Appraisals can be seen as a part of the home-buying process that many people feel is confusing and misunderstood. Common misconceptions include believing that lenders are the ones ordering an appraisal when really it is most often the buyer, understanding what factors contribute to an appraiser's final value and how often appraisals come up low. In reality, the appraiser's job is to assess what other similar properties in the same area sold for before coming up with a value. They also look at recent features added or upgrades. An appraisal doesn’t guarantee that the home will sell for this amount, however it does give buyers and sellers a general price point for negotiation purposes. Such knowledge can help buyers have a realistic expectation when entering an escrow process.


All in all, it is important that every buyer of a property understand the appraisal process. It is ultimately an opinion on the value of a property given existing market factors and should be used as such. An appraiser has the job to investigate, analyze and research the worth of a home before the sale can close, so buyers should understand the process and be aware of its key nuances - from who typically orders appraisals to common techniques used to determine value. That knowledge can allow buyers to make well-informed decisions when entering into real estate transactions. Being proper informed about such implications of home ownership can have long-lasting financial benefits.


Find Your Utah Home with Angie Clarke and UT Makes Moves / Keller Williams Realty


If you are looking for the right Utah home, then give Angie Clarke with UT Makes Moves a call. I aim to offer an exceptional relocation experience and unparalleled customer service through prompt communication, ethics and integrity, and the utmost care / concern for my clients!


Angie Clarke with UT Makes Moves is your local Salt Lake City home expert, specializing in working with buyers who are relocating to Utah. Whether you are buying or selling, I'd love the opportunity to make your relocation journey smooth and successful...I strive to provide Relocation Elevated: easing minds, building community, and finding home.


To get started on finding the ideal Utah home for you, take a look at my buyer's or seller's guides, or schedule a time to meet with me today. You can also contact me at angelaclarke@kw.com or call (904) 226-3894. I'd love to be your Salt Lake City Realtor.

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