FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What services does Palbo Appraisal offer?

    Palbo Appraisal provides a wide range of appraisal services, including:


    • Complex Properties
    • Estate Planning
    • Tax Appraisal
    • Divorce Appraisals
    • For Sale By Owner
    • Pre-listing
    • PMI Removal
    • Property Tax Appeal
  • What areas do you serve?

    We serve Puget Sound region, providing expert appraisal services to homeowners, real estate agents, attorneys, and financial institutions.

  • How do I schedule an appraisal?

    To schedule an appraisal, you can contact us at (206) 887-8379 or fill out our online contact form. Our team will get in touch with you to arrange a convenient time for the appraisal.

  • What methods do you use to appraise my property?

    We use a combination of methods, including the sales comparison approach, cost approach, and income approach (if applicable). These methods involve analyzing recent sales of comparable properties, estimating the cost to replace the property, and considering any income generated by the property.

  • What happens during the appraisal inspection?

    During the appraisal inspection, the appraiser will visit your property to conduct a thorough evaluation. This includes measuring the property, examining the condition of the interior and exterior, and noting any unique features or upgrades.

  • Are your appraisers certified?

    All our appraisers are certified and licensed professionals with extensive experience in the appraisal industry. They adhere to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) to ensure accuracy and reliability.

  • What is the typical timeline for completing an appraisal?

    The appraisal process usually takes between 3 to 7 business days from the initial inspection to the delivery of the final report. The exact timeline can vary depending on the property type and complexity.

  • How do you support property tax appeals?

    We provide a detailed appraisal report to present as evidence during your appeal, supporting your case for a lower property assessment and reduced taxes.

  • What is a property tax appeal?

    A property tax appeal is a process where you contest your property’s assessed value to potentially reduce your property taxes.

  • How can Palbo Appraisal help with PMI removal?

    We provide an appraisal to determine if your home’s value has increased enough to qualify for PMI removal, saving you money on mortgage insurance premiums.

  • What is PMI, and why would I want it removed?

    PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) is an additional insurance required by lenders when your down payment is less than 20%. Removing PMI can reduce your monthly mortgage payments.

  • How does a pre-listing appraisal benefit me?

    It helps you set a competitive price, avoid overpricing or underpricing, and provides a professional valuation to share with potential buyers.

  • What is a pre-listing appraisal?

    A pre-listing appraisal gives you an accurate assessment of your property’s value before you put it on the market, ensuring you list it at the right price to attract potential buyers.

  • How does your FSBO service help me sell my home?

    Our FSBO service provides a comprehensive appraisal, pricing guidance, marketing strategies, and expert support throughout the selling process, helping you maximize your profits and sell your home confidently.

  • How do you handle sensitive situations like divorce appraisals?

    We approach divorce appraisals with professionalism, confidentiality, and sensitivity, ensuring a fair and impartial valuation.

  • Why is an appraisal necessary in a divorce?

    An appraisal provides an unbiased assessment of the property’s value, which is essential for equitable division of assets during a divorce.

  • Can you help if I believe my property taxes are too high?

    Yes, we can provide an independent appraisal to support your case in a property tax appeal, potentially lowering your tax burden.

  • What is a tax appraisal?

    A tax appraisal determines the value of a property for tax purposes, ensuring you are paying the correct amount in property taxes.

  • How do you ensure the accuracy of estate appraisals?

    We conduct thorough research and analysis, considering market trends, comparable properties, and specific property features to provide a precise appraisal.

  • Why do I need an appraisal for estate planning?

    An appraisal is crucial for accurately determining the value of your assets, which is essential for fair distribution among heirs and for tax purposes.

  • How do you appraise complex properties?

    We use a combination of advanced appraisal techniques, market analysis, and our extensive experience to accurately assess the value of complex properties.

  • What qualifies as a complex property?

    Complex properties are those that have unique features, unusual locations, or are difficult to appraise using standard methods. This can include luxury homes, historical properties, and properties with unique architectural styles.