Appraisal Reviews & Second Opinions: Ensuring Accuracy & Fair Valuation

What Is an Appraisal Review or Second Opinion?

An appraisal review or second opinion appraisal is a professional reassessment of a prior home valuation to determine its accuracy, credibility, and compliance with appraisal standards. If you suspect an appraisal is incorrect or biased, getting a second opinion can help protect your financial interests.

Why You Might Need an Appraisal Review

1. Disputing a Low Home Appraisal

If an appraisal comes in lower than expected—affecting a home sale, refinance, or loan approval—a second opinion can determine if the valuation was fair and accurate.

2. Avoiding Appraisal Errors

Mistakes in an appraisal report—such as incorrect square footage, outdated comparable sales, or overlooked property upgrades—can lead to misleading valuations. A review identifies errors or inconsistencies that could impact the final value.

3. Ensuring Fair Market Value in Divorce or Estate Settlements

In legal matters like divorce, probate, or tax appeals, an independent appraisal review can confirm that property values are accurately assessed for fair asset distribution.

4. Second Opinion for Investment Properties

Real estate investors often seek second opinions to ensure appraisals reflect the true market value of a property before making purchasing or selling decisions.

5. Verifying Lender-Appointed Appraisals

Lenders typically select their own appraisers for mortgage and refinance transactions. If you believe the valuation was too low or inconsistent with market data, a second opinion from an independent appraiser can provide additional insight.

Types of Appraisal Reviews

● Desk Review – A licensed appraiser analyzes the original appraisal report, checking for errors, missing information, or inconsistencies without a property inspection.

● Field Review – A more in-depth review that includes a physical property inspection and independent market analysis.

● Full Second Opinion Appraisal – A completely new appraisal conducted by a different appraiser to determine the property’s true market value.

What to Expect from an Appraisal Review

● A detailed analysis of the original appraisal report.

● An independent comparison of recent comparable sales (comps).

● Identification of errors, discrepancies, or misjudgments in the valuation.

● A professional opinion on whether the original appraisal was fair and accurate.

Who Needs an Appraisal Review or Second Opinion?

● Homeowners disputing a low home appraisal.

● Buyers or sellers seeking an independent verification of home value.

● Attorneys handling divorce, estate, or tax-related valuations.

● Real estate investors evaluating investment property values.

● Mortgage lenders and financial institutions requiring quality control checks.

Schedule an Appraisal Review in Southeast Michigan

At Appraisal House, we provide expert appraisal reviews and second opinions to ensure your property’s valuation is accurate and fair.

📞 Call us at (313) 992-1766 📧 Email: info@theappraisalhouse.com 🌍 Visit: theappraisalhouse.com