Laurie Hawes Appraiser

read moreEvery year, countless people in the United States buy, sell or refinance their own slice of the American Dream. Most, if not all, of these transactions include a simple line item for an appraisal. It has become an understood and accepted part of a real estate transaction. But is this the only reason to get an appraisal? Are there other times when the services of a certified, licensed, independent real estate professional might come in handy? One of the most important issues involved in purchasing a property is developing an opinion of what it's worth so that you can make an informed offer to purchase.

read moreMost localities determine your property tax burden based on an ad valorem assessment of the property's value. If you you get an unwanted surprise in the mail stating your taxes are going up, you may have good reason to differ with their assessment. Sometimes, matters like this can be solved with a phone call. However, if after discussing your assessment with your local taxing authority you still feel your property was overvalued, an independent, third-party appraiser is often your best bet in proving your case.

read moreAs said in a statement by the Federal Reserve, "financial institutions are required to have an effective, independent real estate appraisal and evaluation program, " and that appraisers fulfilling reviews are obligated to "have the ability and skills to evaluate compliance with the Federal Reserves appraisal rules and guidelines." Laurie Hawes Appraisal Service provides appraisal review services that are independent, expert, professional and in line with the Federal Reserve's guidelines. Appraisal reviews "must decide whether the appraisal or evaluation is applicable for the transaction, the uncertainty of the transaction, and whether the methods by which the collateral valuation is attained guarantees independence and quality, " the Federal Reserve says.

read moreEstate tax liability. Disposition of assets under a will or in probate. There are many situations -- none of them lacking stress and complexity -- where you might need an appraisal of property that states an opinion of what the property was worth on a date some time ago, rather than when the appraisal is ordered. For estate tax purposes or disposition of the assets of a decedent, a "date of death" valuation is often required. Real property isn't like publicly traded stock or other items which don't fluctuate in value very much or for which historical public data is available.

read moreHomeowners need appraisals or appraisal reviews for a variety of reasons, including a mortgage refinance, home equity loans, Pre-listing services, and PMI removal. When you order an appraisal or review from us, you can rest assured that you will get the best in professional service, courtesy, and quality. Be sure that you request us if your lender asks you for YOUR choice of appraisal firms. More than likely we are already on their "approved list", and if not we will quickly provide your lender with the necessary documentation to become approved.

read moreAppraising is an always changing profession. Each year, it seems, appraisers are asked to offer extra information or have steps added to their appraisal process. They do this extra work to guarantee their client is presented with the best information possible. To keep up with the always changing requirements, Laurie Hawes Appraisal Service is constantly acquiring additional tools and tweaking processes to increase efficiency so we can do more work for our clients. Since Laurie Hawes Appraisal Service knows that time is important to everyone, below are some things you can do to hasten the process on any appraisals you order from Laurie Hawes Appraisal Service.

read moreMaybe you feel like you don't need an "appraisal" but you'd still like some help gathering local property and sales data. We can provide low cost sales and listing reports that will guide you through the maze of raw data. Our reports help you to make an informed buying decision. We understand the complexities of buying a home and know what you are going through and will do our best to make it easier for you by giving you a high quality, professional appraisal that you can depend on!

read moreEstate settlement is often stressful, but a very important job. As an executor you have been entrusted to carry out the wishes of the departed as swiftly and exactly as possible. You can count on us to act quickly and with as much understanding to the feelings of everyone left behind. Part of Laurie Hawes Appraisal Service's focus is to provide top-notch, ethical appraisals that lawyers can rely on. We cater to their needs and are used to dealing with all parties involved. We create appraisal reports that exceed the necessities of the legal system and various groups.