The Zen Real Estate Appraiser

  Are you paying too much in real estate taxes? Have you ever looked at your real estate tax bill and thought…. This tax bill seems kinda high? And then, you look at your assessment and think- well that's kinda low… so I guess I'm ahead of the game…. But here's the thing - and keep in mind - I am speaking about the area that I work…. (every area is different) The assessment only represents a percentage of the market value of which the county has determined your house to be worth.  So when you think it's low….. Well… it may in fact be high…. Tricky, right? For example: if you live in Montgomery County, PA go do this right now: Look at your assessment and multiply it by 2.24  = the market value that your current taxes are based upon. Now, how do you feel about that market value? If you are unsure, then we can provide clarity. If you do not know how to find your assessment, then we can show you where/how to find it. If you are really upset because you think it seems way hi...

  The appraiser said I have to fix what?? I am going to attempt to give you a little insight into when and why repairs may be required. The reason I say attempt is because there are a ton of different scenarios that we encounter. Hopefully, I can help you… and not confuse you even more! It begins here: When we visit your property we are looking at all of the readily observable areas of your property. So during our appraisal appointment you'll notice us opening up all of the doors, walking into every room and walking around the outside of the property. We take lots of photos - I personally take photos of every single room, all outbuildings, all deferred maintenance, higher quality improvements and all recent updates. We are not home inspectors or code enforcement officers… so we do not climb on roofs or determine if everything is up to local building codes. Here are a few general things to notice as you look around your home…. 1- Are there any items of deferred maintenance that m...