There are about 80,000 real estate appraisers in the U.S., and they play a key role in most home sales: Until they weigh in with a determination of a property’s value, the buyer typically can’t finalize a mortgage. The profession got a reputational black eye, however, during the housing boom… read more →
Purchase agreements have been hammered out, inspections have been done and issues that were uncovered are being addressed, and the closing date has been set. There’s just one last hurdle to clear before certainty that you are moving: the appraisal. Over the past three months, real-estate appraisals have held back more… read more →
Thinking about refinancing? Before you do, put some time and effort — and some money too — into sprucing up. For anyone selling a home, sprucing up is a no-brainer. Repairs, upgrades, painting and landscaping can raise the sales price. But homeowners who are staying put and refinancing often don’t… read more →
Purchase agreements have been hammered out, inspections have been done and issues that were uncovered are being addressed, and the closing date has been set. There’s just one last hurdle to clear before certainty that you are moving: the appraisal. Over the past three months, real-estate appraisals have held back more… read more →