What is the primary role of an "appraiser"?

The primary role of an appraiser is to determine the value of a property through various methods. Appraisers are licensed professionals who use specific guidelines and methodologies to assess property values objectively. Their evaluations are based on a detailed analysis of comparable sales, the property's condition, its location, and current market trends. This process ensures that buyers, sellers, and lenders have a reliable estimate of a property's worth, which is crucial in the real estate transaction process.

Understanding property value is fundamental in various scenarios, such as securing financing, establishing tax assessments, or settling an estate. An accurate appraisal is essential for ensuring that transactions are fair and equitable. This differentiates the appraiser's role from other real estate professionals, such as negotiators, who focus on haggling over sales prices, or transaction facilitators, who assist with closing processes. Property management and listing activities are also distinct from the appraisal function, as these roles involve oversight and marketing rather than valuation.