🏡 Real Estate Appraisal FAQ: What Denver Homeowners Should Know

If you’re buying, selling, refinancing, or settling an estate in Denver, you’ve probably run into the term “real estate appraisal.” Below are the most common questions people ask, answered with a focus on residential appraisals:

 
❓ What is a real estate appraisal?
A real estate appraisal is an unbiased opinion of value completed by a licensed appraiser. It helps determine what a property is worth in today’s market. Lenders, attorneys, homeowners, and buyers all use appraisals to make informed decisions.

 
❓ What does real estate appraisal mean?
It simply means establishing market value. An appraiser analyzes recent comparable home sales, the property’s condition, lot, location, and features to provide a professional opinion of value.

 
❓ What are real estate appraisal services?
Residential appraisal services typically include valuations for:

Home purchases and refinances
Estate settlements and trusts
Divorce proceedings
Property tax appeals
Pre-listing valuations for sellers
 
❓ How much does a real estate appraisal cost?
In Denver, a standard single-family residential appraisal usually ranges from $600 to $850, depending on property size, complexity, and purpose of the appraisal. More complex properties or unique assignments may cost more.

 
❓ How long does a real estate appraisal take?
The onsite property visit often takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on size and condition. The full appraisal process, including research and report writing, typically takes 3–5 business days once access is scheduled.

 
❓ How do you get a real estate appraisal?
If you’re refinancing, your lender will order one. For private needs (estate, divorce, tax appeal, pre-listing), you can hire an independent licensed appraiser directly.

 
❓ What is a real estate appraisal report?
It’s the written document you receive from the appraiser. The report includes details about the property, comparable sales, analysis, and the final opinion of value.

 
❓ How do you become a real estate appraiser?
To become a licensed appraiser in Colorado, you need:

Education (approved appraisal courses)
Supervised experience under a certified appraiser
Passing the state exam
Many start as trainees before advancing to licensed or certified residential levels.
 
❓ How do you get a real estate appraisal license?
In Colorado, this is handled by the Colorado Division of Real Estate. You’ll need coursework, logged hours, and an exam to qualify.

 
❓ How is commercial real estate appraisal different?
Commercial appraisals are typically more complex, focusing on income, leases, and market rents. They take longer and cost more than residential appraisals. Residential appraisers usually focus on single-family homes, condos, and small multi-units.

 
❓ What real estate appraisal should I get?
If you own a home or condo in Denver and need a reliable market value opinion, a residential certified appraiser is the right choice.

 
✅ Bottom line: Real estate appraisals are a crucial part of homeownership decisions. For professional residential appraisal services in Denver, contact VolkHaus Appraisals today.