THE SHORT ANSWER
If you need a valuation for an estate, divorce, financial planning, or another private matter, begin with the purpose of the appraisal and who will rely on it. A court, attorney, lender, or other intended user may require a particular report or inspection scope.
When a desktop approach may be an option
What if you need a home appraisal but coordinating an interior visit is difficult? A desktop appraisal may be an option. Rather than relying on a new in-person interior inspection, the appraiser develops an opinion of value using available property records, market data, photographs, prior documentation, and other credible sources. It can be a practical solution for certain private-use assignments.
Desktop does not mean automatic
But “desktop” does not mean “automatic.” A qualified appraiser still analyzes comparable sales, property characteristics, market conditions, and the reliability of the information provided. The tradeoff is that some important details, especially current interior condition or undocumented improvements, may be harder to verify. That is why a desktop approach is not appropriate for every property or intended use.
Start with who will rely on the report
If you need a valuation for an estate, divorce, financial planning, or another private matter, begin with the purpose of the appraisal and who will rely on it. A court, attorney, lender, or other intended user may require a particular report or inspection scope. Reddy Appraisal LLC can discuss whether a desktop residential appraisal is suitable or whether an interior inspection would be the better choice.
About this article
General educational information. The suitable appraisal scope depends on the property, intended use, effective date and available information.
A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE ON YOUR PROPERTY
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Reddy Appraisal LLC provides independent residential property valuations in Tucson and Southern Arizona. Tell us your property location and the purpose of your valuation to discuss an appropriate assignment.