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Why you should hire an appraiser

Thousands of people in Florida purchase, sell or refinance their home every month. Many of these transactions contain a simple line item for an appraisal. Practically all lenders still want a local expert because the stakes are so high, even though there are an increasing number of automated home valuation methods that may appear to be more economical than an appraisal. Is getting a mortgage the only reason you should get an appraisal? Are there additional times when the services of a licensed, independent real estate professional might be helpful? Of course.

Let Di Cicco & Associates assist you in lowering your mortgage payment

Challenge your tax assessment in Santa Rosa County

It's probable you're paying too much in property taxes if you reside in an area where property values have depreciated. Ad Valorem taxes are based upon a previous assessment of your house, so if values have declined 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 equipped to assist you in disputing your tax assessment.

PMI removal to reduce a mortgage payment

Private Mortgage Insurance, or PMI, is an additional insurance policy that almost all lenders ask homebuyers to buy when the amount being loaned to the home buyer is more than 80% of the actual value of the property. Since the extra payment is usually lumped into the monthly mortgage payment, it is often forgotten. PMI isn't required when the remaining balance of the loan - whether through market appreciation or principal pay down - dips below the 80% level, making this very unfortunate. In fact, the United States Congress implemented a law in 1998 (the Homeowners Protection Act of 1998) requiring lenders to do away with the PMI payments when the loan-to-value ratio conditions have been met.

Di Cicco & Associates can provide you with a statement regarding the value of your home, and the cost of the home valuation can usually be offset in just a few months because you'll no longer be paying the PMI.

Order your appraisal from Di Cicco & Associates today

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Settle a divorce with fewer hang-ups

A divorce is often complicated by the hard decision of who gets the home, and it can be an especially daunting experience for both parties. It's a good idea to order an appraisal from Di Cicco & Associates so both parties are fully aware of the true market value of their property, regardless of the circumstances.

The parties will have a a good idea of what price to set, if they want to sell the home. And on the flip side, if a "buyout" is the chosen option, both parties will feel like they've gotten a fair assessment.

Fair and accurate estate liquidation

The death of a loved one is a difficult time in life, and settling an estate from a death, or probate, often requires an appraisal to establish Fair Market Value for the residential property involved. The ethics provision within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) binds us with confidentiality, ensuring the utmost degree of discretion.

Most Americans do not have dedicated estate planners or executors to take care of these matters, unlike many wealthy individuals. A home or other property often makes up an uneven share of the total estate value, so knowing the true worth of the real estate at hand is of significant importance to ensuring disputing parties walk away knowing they've received an honest deal.

Relocate to or from Santa Rosa County for work

Employee relocation can be a stressful event, and we understand. We take great care in establishing a convenient appointment time for the appraisal inspection. We encourage relocating employees to provide feedback on the positive features of their property, along with information about any recent sales or listings in their area that they want considered during our intensive inspection.

Close on your home quickly — at the right price

Whether you decide to sell your home on your own or with the help of a real estate agent, a professional appraisal will help you make a more informed decision when determining your asking price. An appraiser has no vested interest in what amount the house sells for, unlike real estate agents. Our fees depend on our efforts to finish the appraisal report and not a percentage of the sales price.

On a daily basis, we analyze the difference in value items like an extra bathroom or a kitchen remodel can make. Seeking a professional appraisal is a trusted way to decide 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 stay on the market.

Let Di Cicco & Associates help you sell your home quickly at the right price