Who Orders the Estate Appraisal and What to Expect (Part 2)
UNDERSTANDING ESTATE SETTLEMENT APPRAISALS


My post contentAfter learning why an estate appraisal matters, the next step is understanding who orders it and what the process looks like. When a loved one passes, the person responsible for managing the estate, often called the executor or personal representative, is typically the one who orders the appraisal. In some cases, an attorney, CPA, or financial advisor will make the request on behalf of the estate, especially when there are several heirs or multiple properties involved.
At Accurate Appraisals of North Carolina, Inc., the appraisal will typically be ordered in the name of the estate if there are multiple heirs. This helps keep the process neutral, transparent, and fair for everyone involved. Once we’ve been engaged, we’ll ask a few preliminary questions to gain a better understanding of the property, such as its history, any recent updates or improvements, and any unique characteristics or circumstances that may influence value.
From there, a quote will be emailed along with sample reports, so you can visually see how our reports are written. Each report explains market trends, outlines the similarities and differences among the comparable sales, and clearly communicates how these factors support our professional opinion of Fair Market Value.
While the process is thorough and data-driven, we approach every estate assignment with understanding and respect. We know this isn’t just about property — it’s about helping families navigate a difficult time with confidence and peace of mind.
Next in the series: “Common Mistakes in Estate Appraisals (and How to Avoid Them).”
