Zillow’s Zestimate is a computer-generated estimate and often misses key details. A certified appraiser provides a far more accurate valuation by inspecting the property, analyzing comparable sales, and considering local market trends. In many situations—like getting a mortgage or handling legal matters—an appraisal is legally required. Unlike a generic online tool, an appraiser gives you professional expertise, local market knowledge, and a valuation tailored to your specific property.

Appraisers consider a property’s location, size, age, condition, design, and features—along with upgrades, zoning, and construction quality. They also compare recent neighborhood sales and current market conditions. The exact factors can vary depending on the type and purpose of the appraisal, but the goal is always to determine the most accurate market value.

Most appraisals take a few days to a week. The appraiser inspects the property, then spends several hours analyzing data and writing the report. Timelines can vary based on property complexity, appraiser availability, and how quickly needed information is provided.

Factors that can affect the timeline of the appraisal process include the availability of the appraiser, the complexity of the property, the purpose of the appraisal, and how quickly information sources get back to the appraiser. It is not uncommon for an appraiser to make phone calls to listing agents, builders, contractors, and city employees to gather relevant information to complete assignments.

In some cases, unforeseen circumstances such as inclement weather or difficulty accessing the property can also delay the appraisal process. It’s important to communicate with the appraiser to get an estimated timeline for the appraisal and to provide any necessary information or access to the property in a timely manner.

An appraisal is performed by a licensed appraiser to determine a home’s market value, often for lending or legal purposes. A home inspection, done by a licensed inspector, focuses on the property’s condition—looking for issues like foundation, roof, plumbing, or electrical problems. In short, the appraisal answers “What is it worth?” while the inspection answers “What shape is it in?”

An appraiser’s sketch is a precise diagram used to calculate a home’s living area for valuation purposes. A floor plan, often created with digital scanning, shows the layout of rooms, doors, and windows for marketing but isn’t as accurate for measuring square footage.