A Eagle Appraisals appraiser does not provide a home inspection but performs a third party investigation of all accessible facets of a property including structure and amenities, from roof to foundation and surrounding areas for the purposes of determining its value on the open market.

The data used in an appraisal report can be what is termed “Specific” or “General” and is gathered from Multiple Listing Services (MLS), tax records, and a range of other public documents and records. The appraiser compiles the data and comparative studies in combination with additional standard methods of analysis.

All Eagle Appraisals appraisers must ensure that the following items are covered:

• Proper analysis and inclusion of all reported information.
• That no major errors of omission or commission were committed by an individual or group.
• That all appraisal services were carried out in a meticulous and discriminating manner.
• That the final report is easy to understand, complete and not easily disputed.

All certified appraisers must meet extensive requirements. Eagle Appraisals appraisers are licensed to provide qualified reports and members of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

Appraisal reports for mortgage transactions may be paid for by the buyer for closing a sale, though the lending financial institution retains the right to use the report and all of its information. When a homeowner hires an appraiser directly however, the appraiser may specify the purpose of the appraisal for estate planning or tax disputes and the homeowner retains all rights to the appraisal.

Market value or fair market value is the most probable price that a property should bring (will sell for) in a competitive and open market under all conditions requisite to a fair sale, the buyer and seller, each acting prudently, knowledgeably and assuming the price is not affected by undue stimulus. Implicit in this definition is the consummation of a sale as of a specified date and the passing of title from seller to buyer under conditions whereby: (1) buyer and seller are typically motivated; (2) both parties are well informed or well advised; (3) a reasonable time is allowed for exposure to the open market; (4) payment is made in terms of cash in U.S. dollars or in terms of financial arrangements comparable thereto; and (5) the price represents the normal consideration for the property sold unaffected by special or creative financing or sales concessions granted by anyone associated with the sale.

PMI stands for Private Mortgage Insurance. It insures a lender against loss on homes purchased with a down-payment of less than 20%. Once equity in the home reaches 20% you can eliminate the PMI and start saving immediately.

Anytime the value of your home or other real property is being used to make a significant financial decision, an appraisal helps. If you're selling your home, an appraisal helps you set the most appropriate value. If you're buying, it makes sure you don't overpay. If you're engaged in an estate settlement or divorce, it ensures that property is divided fairly. A home is often the single, largest financial asset anybody owns. Knowing its true value means you can the right financial decisions.