Real Estate Appraisal FAQ — Edwards Appraisals | Austin, TX

Question 1

How long does an appraisal take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential appraisals are completed within 3–5 business days of the property inspection. Complex properties, estate valuations, or rush requests may vary.

Question 2

What does an appraisal cost?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary depending on the property type, complexity, and service requested. Contact us with your property address and the type of appraisal you need for a fee quote. We'll respond within one business day.

Question 3

What's the difference between a certified appraisal and a Zillow Zestimate?

Accepted Answer

A Zillow Zestimate is an automated estimate generated by an algorithm using public records and listing data. It has no knowledge of your property's actual condition, updates, or unique features — and it can be off by tens of thousands of dollars. A certified appraisal typically envolves researching comparable sales and applying professional judgment. The result is a defensible, documented opinion of value accepted by courts, lenders, and the IRS.

Question 4

What happens during the property inspection?

Accepted Answer

Rob will visit the property to measure the home, photograph key features, and assess condition, quality, and any improvements. The inspection typically takes 30–60 minutes depending on the size and complexity of the property. You don't need to do anything special to prepare — just ensure access to all areas of the home.

Question 5

Can I use the appraisal for multiple purposes?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the intended use stated in the report. An appraisal ordered for a tax protest, for example, may not be suitable for a lender. If you have multiple needs, let us know upfront so the report can be scoped appropriately.

Question 6

Do you appraise land or vacant lots?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Edwards Appraisals appraises residential land and vacant lots within the Austin Metro Area service counties.

Question 7

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Fill out the Request an Appraisal form with your property address, the type of appraisal you need, and a brief description of your situation. We'll respond within one business day with next steps and a fee quote.

What to Expect From a Certified Appraisal

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