Why would you need an appraisal from Robert Ritchey?

To many, an appraisal is simply another cost on the break-sheet for a mortgage or refinance. And even though there are a growing number of automated home valuation systems that may appear to be more economical than an appraisal, practically all lenders still want a local expert because the stakes are so high. But is securing a mortgage the only basis for getting an appraisal? Are there more cases when the services of a licensed, independent real estate professional might come in handy? You bet.

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Let Robert Ritchey help you dispute your tax assessment in Tarrant County

It's possible 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 home, so if prices are less than what they used to be in your area, you can challenge your assessment and save money. When building your case, an appraisal from Robert Ritchey is your best evidence. We're qualified to assist you in disputing your tax assessment.

Eliminating PMI will lower your mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is a supplemental insurance plan that many lenders ask homeowners to purchase when the amount being loaned to the homeowner is more than 80% of the actual value of the real estate. Seeing that added payment is usually lumped into the monthly mortgage payment, it is often forgotten. PMI isn't necessary when the remainder of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - falls below the 80% mark, making this very unfortunate. In fact, the Homeowners Protection Act (HPA) of 1998 was passed by the United States Congress that requires lenders to dismiss the PMI payments when the balance is paid down to 78% of the original value.

If you'd like to eliminate PMI, Robert Ritchey will provide you with a statement regarding the value of your home. The price you paid for the home valuation can often be regained in little time because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

An appraisal from Robert Ritchey will help you settle a divorce with less stress

A divorce is often complicated by the burdensome decision of who keeps the property, and it can be a very heartbreaking experience for both parties. It's a good idea to order an appraisal from Robert Ritchey so both parties are fully aware of the true market value of their home, regardless of the circumstances.

The parties will have a better idea of what price to set, if they want to sell the home. And on the flip side, if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've received a fair evaluation.

Fair and accurate estate liquidation with help from Robert RitcheySettling an estate

Losing a loved one is a hard time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often entails an appraisal to establish 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 maximum degree of discretion.

Most Americans do not have dedicated estate planners or executors to manage these affairs, unlike wealthier individuals. A home or other property often makes up a disproportionate share of the total estate value, so understanding the true value of the real estate at hand is of significant importance to ensuring disputing parties leave knowing they've gotten a fair deal.

Robert Ritchey can help you with relocating to or from Tarrant County

We are familiar with the stress associated with an employee relocation. That being said, we take great care in organizing a convenient appointment time for the appraisal inspection. We encourage relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive characteristics of their property, along with information regarding any new sales or listings in their neighborhood that they want considered during our intensive process.

Sell your home quickly at the right price with an appraisal from Robert Ritchey

Whether 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 more informed decision when determining your selling price. An appraiser has no vested interest in what price the house sells for, unlike real estate agents. Our fees are derived from our efforts to complete the appraisal report and and aren't related to the sales price.

On a daily basis, we analyze the difference in value items like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. And we're experts in knowing how long homes are on the market. So, obtaining a professional appraisal is a trusted way to determine what improvements will add value and what an applicable sales price is for your home so you don't come up short or have your house on the market for an extended amount of time.