Whether you’re buying, selling, refinancing, or settling an estate, a home appraisal can feel a little mysterious—especially if it’s your first time going through one.
At Carolina Appraisal Group, we believe the process should be transparent, professional, and stress-free. This quick guide walks you through what to expect before, during, and after the appraisal appointment so you can feel fully prepared.
Appraisals are typically ordered by a lender, attorney, or directly by a homeowner. Depending on the purpose—home sale, divorce, estate, refinance—the client may receive different types of reports, but the process always begins with scheduling.
At Carolina Appraisal Group, we contact the point of contact within 24 hours to set up a convenient inspection time.
This is the part most people think of when they hear “appraisal.”
A licensed appraiser will come out to physically inspect the property. This typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour for a standard residential home.
Here’s what we evaluate:
We may take photos and measurements but we don’t judge decor or cleanliness. Our job is to assess the property, not the lifestyle.
After the site visit, the appraiser performs an in-depth market study. This includes:
Because we’re a local South Carolina company, we know how to properly compare properties in our unique markets—from rural farmland to downtown condos.
The appraiser then compiles everything into a USPAP-compliant report (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice), which includes:
Turnaround is typically 48 hours or less after the inspection for most residential assignments.
Who gets the appraisal depends on who ordered it.
If you have questions about anything in the report, our team is happy to walk you through it in plain English.
While you can’t control the market, you can make a good impression with these quick tips:
✅ Make sure the home is accessible (unlock gates, open doors)
✅ Replace burnt-out bulbs and fix obvious safety issues
✅ Provide a list of recent improvements or upgrades
✅ Tidy up yards and remove clutter from major rooms
✅ Be available but don’t hover—we’ve got it covered!
Since 1999, we’ve completed thousands of accurate, fair, and fast appraisals across South Carolina. Our team is known for:
✔️ Fast turnarounds
✔️ Friendly, professional service
✔️ Clear and defensible valuation reports
✔️ Local expertise across rural and urban markets
📞 Have questions or need to schedule an appraisal?
Call (803) 534-5554 or email orders@carolinaappraisalgroup.com and we’ll take care of everything.
Carolina Appraisal Group
Accurate. Reliable. Local.
Disclaimer:
All information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Carolina Appraisal Group does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Appraisals and valuations are subject to change based on market conditions and specific property factors. Clients should consult with one of our qualified professionals before making decisions based on the information provided herein.Use of this website and submission of information does not establish a client relationship. All services are subject to formal engagement agreements and compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
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Orangeburg, SC | Serving the Eastern Coastal Region & Beyond
Phone: (803) 534-5554 | Email: info@carolinaappraisalgroup.com
