An independent appraisal is one of the first steps you’ll need to take before buying or selling a property, and it’s a crucial starting point for your negotiations. Sellers want to command the highest possible listing price, and buyers want to ensure they get as much value as possible for every dollar they spend. Our team at Ferstl Valuation Services has been offering trusted real estate appraisals in Little Rock since 1967, and we’re always just a phone call away when you’re ready to schedule an independent appraisal!
We have the requisite expertise in a variety of property types to provide reliable and accurate property appraisals for any residential or commercial need. Additionally, J.T. Ferstl ,MAI , is an Arkansas-licensed attorney who can assist you with trial preparation services and expert witness testimony if you find yourself in court for an eminent domain case or property dispute. An appraisal is an objective valuation utilized to establish the fair market value of a property, and there are a few easy things you can do to prepare in advance for the appraiser’s arrival:
Review prior recommendations-Your first step should be to review prior appraisals and address any issues that previously lowered your home’s value. You might not be able to complete all of the recommended upgrades or repairs, but you’ll definitely want to address any obvious health or safety issues.
Make cost-effective improvements-The importance of curb appeal cannot be overstated, so be sure to keep the lawn mowed and hedges trimmed. You can’t always count on recouping your entire investment in major property upgrades, but sometimes, a couple of cans of paint and a weekend of yard work can make a significant difference. It’s easiest to recoup your investment in kitchen and bathroom upgrades, but you’ll also want to review comps in your area to ensure you don’t “over-improve” and price yourself out of the market!
Put together a folder for the appraiser-Your appraiser will ask to see documentation of the last sales price, recent land surveys, a list of home improvements along with receipts or invoices, and other important documents. Gathering these documents in advance won’t result in a higher valuation, but it will significantly expedite the appraisal process.
For more information about real estate appraisal services in Little Rock, contact us online or at 501-375-1439.
