Let Crescent Appraisal Group, Inc. handle your appraisal needs

To many, an appraisal just looks like a line item in the long list of items for a home purchase or refinance. And even though there are a budding number of automated home valuation systems that might seem more practical than an appraisal, practically all lenders still call in a local expert because the stakes are incredibly high. You might assume that obtaining a mortgage is the only reason you should get an appraisal, but there are additional instances when the services of a licensed, independent real estate professional might come in handy.

Let Crescent Appraisal Group, Inc. assist you in lowering your mortgage payment

Challenge your tax assessment in Southeast Louisiana

It's probable you're paying too much in property taxes if you live in an area where property values have declined. Ad Valorem taxes are based upon a previous assessment of your real estate, so if prices are less than what they used to be in your area, you can appeal your assessment and save money. When building your case, an appraisal from us is your best evidence. We're qualified to assist you in appealing your tax assessment.

Remove PMI to lower your mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an additional insurance plan that most lenders ask home buyers to purchase when the amount being loaned to the buyer is more than 80% of the actual value of the real estate. Oftentimes, this additional payment is folded into the monthly mortgage payment and is soon forgotten. This is unfortunate because PMI isn't necessary when the remaining balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - falls below the 80% level. In fact, the Homeowners Protection Act (HPA) of 1998 was implemented by the United States Congress requiring lenders to dismiss the PMI payments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met.

Crescent Appraisal Group, Inc. will give you a statement regarding the value of your home, and the expense of the appraisal can usually be offset in just a few months because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

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Settle a divorce with fewer hang-ups

A divorce is often complicated by the hard decision of who keeps the property, and it can be an especially daunting occurrence for both parties. Regardless of the situation, it's a good idea to get an appraisal from Crescent Appraisal Group, Inc. so both parties are completely aware of the true market value of their home.

If the parties wish to sell the home, they'll have a better idea of what price to set. And if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've received a fair assessment.

Fair and accurate estate liquidation

Losing a loved one is a painful time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often entails an appraisal to establish Fair Market Value for the real estate involved. We ensure the highest degree of discretion, as we're bound with confidentiality by the ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

Unlike wealthy individuals, most Americans don't have dedicated estate planners or executors to manage these matters. And since a home or other property often makes up an unequal share of the total estate value, understanding the true worth of the real estate at hand is of significant importance to ensuring disputing parties leave knowing they've received an honest deal.

Relocate to or from Jefferson County for work

We are aware of the stress involved with an employee relocation. That being said, we take great care in setting up an accommodating appointment time for the appraisal inspection. During our detailed inspection, we recommend relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive characteristics of their property, as well as information regarding any recent sales or listings in their area that they want considered.

Sell your home quickly — at the right price

Whether you want to sell your home on your own or with the help of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal will help you make a better educated decision when determining your asking price. Unlike a real estate agent, an appraiser has no vested interest in what amount the house sells for. Our fees depend on our efforts to complete the appraisal report and not a percentage of the sales price.

On a daily basis, we examine the difference in value items like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. Seeking a professional appraisal is a reliable way to determine what improvements will add value and what an appropriate sales price is for your home so you don't come up short or have your house on the market an unnecessarily long time, because we're experts in knowing how long properties are one the market.

Let Crescent Appraisal Group, Inc. help you sell your home quickly at the right price