Reasons to hire an appraiserTo many, an appraisal is simply another cost on the settlement sheet for a home purchase or refinance. Most lenders still call for a local expert because the stakes are incredibly high, even though there are a multiplying number of automated home valuation systems that might seem more cost-effective than an appraisal. You might assume that getting a mortgage is the only reason to acquire an appraisal, but there are other times when the services of a certified, independent real estate professional might come in handy. 
Dispute your tax assessment in Plymouth CountyIt's likely you're paying too much in property taxes if you live in an area where property values have depreciated. Property taxes are based upon a past assessment of your real estate, so if prices have declined in your area, you can challenge your assessment and save money. When building your case, an appraisal from us is your best evidence. We're qualified to assist you in appealing your tax assessment. Removing PMI for mortgage paymentsWhen the amount being loaned to the home buyeris more than 80% of the actual value of the home, nearly all lenders ask homebuyers to take out this added insurance plan. That policy is Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI. Seeing that added payment is usually bundled into the monthly mortgage payment, it is often forgotten. This is bad because PMI isn't necessary when the remaining balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - falls below the 80% level. In fact, the United States Congress implemented a law in 1998 (the Homeowners Protection Act of 1998) requiring lenders to do away with the PMI payments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met. John Donahue & Associates can provide you with a statement regarding the value of your home, and the expense of the home valuation can often be recovered in just a few months because you'll no longer be paying the PMI. Order your appraisal from John Donahue & Associates today Order onlineSettle a divorce with fewer hang-upsA divorce is often complicated by the troublesome decision of who maintains the home, and it can be an especially traumatic ordeal for both parties. It's a good idea to get an appraisal from John Donahue & Associates so both parties are fully aware of the true market value of their house, regardless of the circumstances. If the parties want to sell the home, they'll have a a good idea of what price to set. And if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've gotten a fair assessment. Ascertain an accurate and fair valuation for estate liquidationThe loss of a loved one is a painful time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often requires 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, ensuring the fullest degree of discretion. Most Americans do not have dedicated estate planners or executors to manage these issues, unlike many wealthy individuals. 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 an honest deal. Move to or from Plymouth County through an employee relocation programWe understand the stress involved with an employee relocation. We take great care in establishing a convenient appointment time for the appraisal inspection. We encourage relocating employees to provide remarks on the positive features of their property, as well as information regarding any recent sales or listings in their area that they want considered during our intensive inspection. Close on your home promptly — at an accurate priceWhether you want to sell your home on your own or use the assistance of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal can help you make a better educated decision regarding your asking price. An appraiser has no vested interest in what amount the house sells for, apart from real estate agents. Our fees aren't a percentage of the sales price, but rather they rest on our efforts to finish the appraisal report. We analyze the difference in value items like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make on a daily basis. Seeking a professional appraisal is a trusted way to determine what improvements will add value and what a suitable sales price is for your home so you don't come up short or have your house on the market an unnecessarily long time, because we're experts in knowing how long homes stay on the market. 
|