Don’t Risk Your Investment with a Low-Quality Appraisal

Unfortunately, it’s all too easy for some appraisers to cut corners, and most consumers will never even realize it. While it’s natural to want a low appraisal fee, it’s important not to sacrifice the assurance of a quality appraisal just to save a few dollars. When you’re dealing with real estate worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, those small savings could cost you big in the long run. 

Hiring the right appraiser isn’t just about finding the lowest fee—it’s about ensuring you’re working with a professional who is thorough, ethical, and incentivized to provide accurate and credible results. Here’s what you should consider before making your decision: 

1. Beware of Discounted Fees 

If an appraiser is heavily discounting their fees, it could be a red flag. Appraisers with strong reputations and loyal clients don’t need to undercut their pricing to get work. Discounted fees often suggest they may lack experience, have a weak client base, or worse, plan to take shortcuts in their analysis. In a field where accuracy and detail are critical, shortcuts are simply unacceptable. 

2. Verify State Certification 

Always ensure the appraiser is certified by the State of Florida. Certified appraisers are required to adhere to strict standards and ethics outlined by the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). You can verify an appraiser’s certification, qualifications, and check for any disciplinary actions against them by visiting www.asc.gov/appraiser. 

3. Look for Designations 

This is a big one. Hire a designated appraiser! Appraisers who hold designations from professional organizations, like the Appraisal Institute, have undergone extensive additional training and education beyond the minimum requirements. A designated appraiser has proven their expertise and commitment to excellence in the field. This distinction often separates the best appraisers from the rest. 

4. Assess Specialized Experience 

Experience matters, especially when an appraiser has been trusted as an expert witness in litigation. If an appraiser has been "court-tested," it’s a strong indicator that their work meets the highest standards of accuracy and credibility. 

5. Request Sample Reports

Before hiring, ask to see sample appraisal reports. A quality report will clearly explain how the appraiser reached their conclusions. It should be logical, well-documented, and convincing. If the reports seem vague or incomplete, that’s a sign the appraiser may not deliver the level of quality you need. For form reports, make sure there is a general addendum with a narrative analysis. If one exists, make sure it is custom to the subject property and not just boiler-plate statements. 

6. Evaluate Their Track Record 

How much experience does the appraiser have? An experienced appraiser will have a proven track record of success in valuing properties similar to yours. Don’t hesitate to ask about their years in the business, the types of properties they specialize in, and their knowledge of the local market. 

At the end of the day, a real estate appraisal is a crucial step in safeguarding your financial investment. At Dawson Appraisal Services, we meet all the key criteria above for delivering accurate and reliable valuations. Whether or not you choose us, we encourage you to hold any appraiser you hire to the highest standards. 

By prioritizing qualifications, expertise, and experience over price alone, you can feel confident in receiving the most accurate and dependable valuation for your property.