Why you should order an appraisalTo a lot of us, an appraisal is simply a line item on the break-sheet for a home sale or refinance. And even though there are a multiplying number of automated home valuation processes that might appear to be cheaper than an appraisal, almost all lenders still call for a local expert because the stakes are incredibly high. Is getting a mortgage the only reason to get an appraisal? Are there more situations when the services of a licensed, independent real estate professional might be helpful? Of course. 
Dispute your tax assessment in Howard CountyIt's probable you're paying too much in property taxes if you reside in an area where property values have depreciated. Property taxes are based upon a past assessment of your house, so if prices have gone down in your neighborhood, you can challenge your assessment and save money. When building your case, an appraisal from us is your best evidence. We're equipped to assist you in disputing your tax assessment. Getting rid of your PMI for mortgage paymentsPrivate Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an added insurance policy that many lenders ask homebuyers to purchase when the amount being loaned to the homeowner is more than 80% of the actual value of the home. This added payment is often lumped into the monthly mortgage payment and is soon forgotten. This is damaging because PMI isn't required when the remaining balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - dips below the 80% level. In fact, the Homeowners Protection Act (HPA) of 1998 was passed by the United States Congress that requires lenders to do away with the PMI payments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met. Astute Appraisals, Inc. can produce a statement regarding the value of your home, and the expense of the appraisal can often be recovered in just a few months because you'll no longer be paying the PMI. Order an appraisal from Astute Appraisals, Inc. Order onlineDivorce settlement with less stressA divorce is often complicated by the burdensome decision of who keeps the home, and it can be a very daunting experience for both parties. So both parties are completely aware of the true market value of their property, it's a good idea to get an appraisal from Astute Appraisals, Inc., regardless of the situation. If the parties need to sell the home, they'll have a a good idea of what price to set. And on the flip side, if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've received a fair evaluation. Fair and accurate estate liquidationThe loss of a loved one is a painful time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often calls for an appraisal to establish Fair Market Value for the real estate involved. The ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) binds us with confidentiality, guaranteeing the maximum degree of discretion. Unlike many wealthy individuals, most Americans don't have dedicated estate planners or executors to take care of these affairs. And since a home or other property often makes up a disproportionate share of the total estate value, knowing the true worth of the real estate at hand is of vital importance to ensuring disputing parties walk away knowing they've gotten a fair deal. Relocate to or from Howard County for workWe understand the stress involved with an employee relocation. That being said, we take great care in establishing an accommodating appointment time for the appraisal inspection. During our thorough inspection, we suggest relocating employees to provide remarks on the positive attributes of their property, as well as information about any new sales or listings in their area that they want considered. Sell your home quickly — at an accurate priceWhether you decide to sell your home on your own or with the help of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal will help you make a better educated decision when determining your selling price. An appraiser has no vested interest in what amount the house sells for, unlike real estate agents. Our fees are calculated on our efforts to finish the appraisal report and not a percentage of the sales price. We analyze the difference in value items like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make on a daily basis. And we're experts in knowing how long homesare on the market. So, obtaining a professional appraisal is a trusted way to determine 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. 
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