Everything you need to know about the appraisal process, our turnaround times, and the communities we serve across Chicagoland.
A real estate appraisal is an unbiased, professional opinion of a home's value. Appraisers are licensed professionals who analyze the property's condition, location, and features, comparing it to recent sales of similar properties in the local market to determine a fair market value.
To ensure a smooth inspection, please ensure that all rooms, basements, and attic spaces are accessible. Secure any pets before the appraiser arrives. It is also highly helpful to provide a written list of any major improvements or renovations made to the property (such as a new roof, HVAC system, or remodeled kitchen) along with the dates they were completed.
The physical inspection of a standard residential home typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes. After the inspection, the appraiser completes the market research and report writing. Most residential appraisal reports are delivered within 2 to 4 business days following the inspection.
An appraiser looks at the physical characteristics of the property (square footage, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, age, and layout), the overall condition and quality of construction, recent upgrades, and the neighborhood/location. General housekeeping (like dirty dishes or unmade beds) does not affect the appraised value.
MAK Valuations proudly provides certified residential appraisal reports throughout the South Chicagoland region, with dedicated expertise across Will, Cook, and DuPage counties. Our localized knowledge of these southern and southwestern micro-markets ensures maximum accuracy and report defensibility.