This is not real estate appraisal
The word "appraiser" causes constant confusion, so let's clear it up before anything else on this site.
Insurance appraisal — what I do
- Resolves a dispute between a policyholder and an insurer over the amount of a covered loss — the cost to repair or replace damaged property.
- Created by the appraisal clause in the insurance policy itself.
- Panel of three: two party-appointed appraisers and a neutral umpire.
- Ends in a binding award on the amount of loss.
- No license required in California and most other states — competence and disinterest are the policy's standards.
Real estate appraisal — a different profession
- Estimates the market value of real property — what it would sell for.
- Used for mortgages, refinancing, sales, and property tax matters.
- Performed by state-licensed or certified real estate appraisers under USPAP standards.
- Has nothing to do with insurance claim disputes.
If you need your home or building valued for a sale or loan, you need a licensed real estate appraiser — not me.
If your insurance company's estimate doesn't come close to what your repairs actually cost — or you're an insurer, appraiser, or attorney who needs a panel seat filled — you're in the right place. Start with how the process works or contact me.