The real estate appraiser provides many functions in a real estate transaction. The principal function is to be an impartial third party to the transaction. While other professionals in this industry also assist the buyer and seller, such as real estate agents and mortgage companies, only the appraiser is not paid depending on the transaction. Real estate agents and mortgage brokers receive a commission only if the real estate transaction takes place. As a result, the buyer or seller may feel rushed or even pushed into a transaction. The appraiser provides an unbiased, independent assessment of the subject property and is paid for his or her service whether or not the loan closes.
The appraiser is the "eyes and ears" for his or her client. The purpose of the appraisal report is to communicate to its reader the condition of the property, the current market conditions and to determine an estimate of fair market value of the subject property. Along with individual homeowners, a few examples of businesses that frequently need the services of real estate appraisers are mortgage companies and lenders.
Although real estate agents and mortgage companies perform essential roles in a real estate transaction, appraisers are your safeguard to ensure that you don’t pay too much or receive too little for your home.