Licensed Real Estate Appraiser Based in the Bay Area
Since 1982
Featured Services
Trust & Estate
Trusts and estates are the two main legal structures for transferring assets to your heirs and beneficiaries. Estates make a one-time transfer of your assets after death. Trusts, meanwhile, allow you to create an ongoing transfer of assets both before and after death.
Asset Division
Divorce appraisals are typically used to determine an accurate account of the value of a couple's assets. Each type of asset in a marriage will require a different type of appraisal. For instance, real estate appraisers look at the current market value of a home, which is then subject to division by the courts.
Property Tax Re-Assessments & Appeals
The property taxes that a California taxpayer pays are based on their property's assessed value as determined by the County Assessor.
Meet Catherine
At Catherine Fitzpatrick Appraisals we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. I choose to work in this industry because I am a Certified Real Estate Appraiser with over 25+ years experience in Contra Costa, Alameda and parts of Solano Counties. I offer unbiased quality appraisals for: Trust & estate (date of death) appraisals. Asset division for situations like a divorce or partner dissolution. Property tax re-assessments and appeals, PMI (private mortgage insurance) removal appraisals.
What my clients are saying
Rhonelle
“Very knowledgeable and friendly.”
Jon
“Great quality work. Catherine has a wide variety of skills.”
FAQs
What is a real estate appraisal?
A real estate appraisal is the process of estimating the value of a property. It involves assessing various factors such as location, size, condition, and market trends to determine a fair and accurate market value.
Who conducts real estate appraisals?
Real estate appraisals are typically conducted by licensed or certified appraisers. These professionals have the necessary training, expertise, and knowledge of local markets to determine accurate property values.
How much does a real estate appraisal cost?
The cost of a real estate appraisal can vary depending on factors such as property type, size, location, and complexity. Residential appraisals generally start at $400, contact me for a customized quote.
Why do I need a real estate appraisal?
Real estate appraisals are crucial in various situations. They are often required when buying or selling a property, refinancing a mortgage, settling an estate, or during legal proceedings. An accurate appraisal ensures fair pricing and an understanding of a property's worth.
How is a property value determined during an appraisal?
Appraisers consider several factors, including recent comparable sales data, market conditions, property size and features, location, and any improvements or renovations made. They combine this information with their expertise to determine an objective and fair market value.
Are real estate appraisals the same as home inspections?
No, real estate appraisals are different from home inspections. An appraisal focuses on determining the value of a property, while a home inspection evaluates its condition. Both processes serve distinct purposes and are often necessary during real estate transactions.