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"Carroll & Carroll offers the full range of consulting and appraisal services."

Litigation - Litigation appraisal practice requires the highest standard of accuracy, analysis and persuasive communication.  Sworn testimony often tests an appraiser’s personal integrity.  A matter important enough to litigate deserves the best appraisal services available.

Condemnation - Condemnation is the legal process by which government exercises its power of eminent domain; the taking of private property for a public purpose.  This is perhaps the most specialized appraisal practice requiring of an appraiser knowledge of the law, the ability to work as part of a team of experts and the absolute necessity of remaining reliable and objective.

Testimony - Oral testimony is one of many ways an appraisal report can be communicated.  Before testifying to an opinion of value, an appraiser’s credentials are examined and he/she is qualified as an expert witness whose testimony is accorded weight because it is presumed to be unbiased and objective.  No matter how good the estimate of value, an appraiser’s ability to communicate in a convincing manner is crucial.

Buy/Sell Decisions - As property values change and the real estate market becomes more complicated, buyers, sellers and brokers seek to minimize risk by calling on an appraiser’s expertise.  This is especially true for properties that defy easy analysis.

Insurable Value Estimates - This kind of appraisal service requires a good working knowledge of local construction costs, insurance policies and the law.  A professional appraiser will know what to look for, who to ask and what to tell his client to avoid over or under insuring.  After a loss it’s too late to get a good appraisal.

Estate Settlements - Settling an estate can mean filing an estate tax return with the IRS, satisfying the concerns of creditors and heirs, establishing a basis for future capital gain and setting a value for sale or gift.  Prudent decisions require accurate, reliable appraisals.

Minority Interest Discounts - In order to avoid excessive estate and gift taxes, some property owners pass minority interests to their heirs. Depending on the circumstances, a minority interest might be subject to a substantial discount for marketability.  Carroll and Carroll is qualified to prepare minority interest discount analyses.

Mortgage Loan Underwriting - Banks order appraisals as part of the loan approval process.  Lenders need to know their money is secure.  Buyers and sellers also have an interest in the appraisal.  Many purchase agreements are contingent on financing and in most cases the borrower is entitled to receive from the lender a copy of the appraisal report.  No matter what the point of view, it is in everyone’s best interest to have an accurate appraisal.