Non-Lending Appraisals

While property appraisals are most often associated with lending transactions (i.e., new home purchases or refinancing of an existing loan) there are in fact many non-lending related scenarios, in which an appraisal is required. Attorneys and accountants rely on an appraiser's professional opinion of value when calculating real property values for estates, divorces, bankruptcy, and other disputes/ settlements requiring a determination of value for real property. At Golden State Appraisals, Inc., our staff understands the specific needs of these professionals and are experienced in interacting with all parties involved. We provide appraisal reports that meet the stringent requirements of the courts and various governmental and private agencies.

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What's the whole process?

How it Works

Step 1: Research

 

Once an appraisal has been ordered, our staff will begin to research recorded information regarding the subject property. Golden State Appraisals, Inc. maintains access to numerous specialized data bases in order to obtain property information and data. Potential comparable properties are identified for further investigation. The research process is on-going and continues throughout the entire appraisal process up until the time the assignment is complete.

Step 2: Inspection

 

A physical inspection of the property is scheduled at the time of order. Golden State Appraisals, Inc. offers appointments 7 days a week, for your convenience in scheduling. Our office staff will be happy work with you to ensure you secure an appointment that works best for the scheduling concerns of all parties involved.

 

The physical inspection generally takes anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and condition of the property being inspected. Usually a full inspection is requested for the purposes of marriage dissolution settlements. This type of appraisal required the appraiser to take measurements, a view, photograph and document all components of the property, both exterior and interior. We also offer exterior-only or "drive-by" appraisals, for those assignments that do not require the full inspection.

Step 3: Reporting

 

The appraiser's findings and photographs are input into an appraisal report, specifically designed and formatted for the type of assignment completed. A detailed market analysis is conducted, and important documentation such as location mapping, plat maps, and appraiser sketches are added into the report, with the aid of cutting edge software. The report is delivered electronically to our client, via emailed PDF, upon completion. A hard copy may be requested at no additional charge. Typically, a report is completed 24-72 hours after the inspection.

Step 4: Testimony

 

Sometimes, when a divorce is being settled in court, expert testimony may be requested from the appraiser to explain his/her opinion of value determined by the appraisal report. All Golden State Appraisal, Inc. appraisers are experienced and comfortable in a courtroom setting, and are able to present their findings in a professional and clear manner. We conduct ALL marriage dissolution appraisals as if they were going to be presented in court, so that you are guaranteed of a professional, legally-defendable opinion of value. Our office is aware of the unique time constraints and requirements for divorce court appraisals and will work with you and your attorney to ensure subpoenas are received by the appraiser and disclosures are signed in a timely manner. Expert witness testimony is based on an hourly fee rate, available upon request and as needed.