What Is a Desktop Appraisal?

A Desktop Appraisal is a USPAP-compliant valuation performed entirely from the appraiser’s office using available digital and public information. It is completed without any physical visit to the property.

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Desk-Based Data Sources May Include:

• Public property records

• Multiple Listing Service (MLS) data

• Online building and parcel records

• Market trend analytics

• Comparable sales databases

• Historic listing photos

• Aerial imagery and GIS tools

 

This appraisal type delivers a fast, cost-effective estimate of value suitable for many non-lending purposes.

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When to Use a Desktop Appraisal

Desktop Appraisals are ideal for:

• Low-risk or preliminary valuation needs

• Homeowners wanting a quick estimate of value

• Pre-listing or pre-offer analysis

• Investment and portfolio review

• Tax planning or internal decision-making

• Situations where property access is limited

• Equity estimates before financial planning

• Market updates between full appraisals

 

It is not typically used for most mortgage lending, but may be accepted for certain loan products depending on lender guidelines.

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What You Receive in a Desktop Appraisal

Your Digital-Based Appraisal includes:

• Comparable sales research

• Neighborhood and market trend analysis

• Recorded property characteristics

• GIS and aerial imagery review

• Adjustment analysis

• Final market value opinion

• USPAP-compliant PDF report

 

This report is professional, easy to interpret, and based strictly on verified market data.

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Benefits of a Desktop Appraisal

• Fast turnaround (often same day or next day)

• Lower cost than full or exterior appraisals

• No scheduling required

• Ideal for inaccessible or tenant-occupied homes

• Excellent for pre-decision real estate planning

 

Desktop Appraisals allow homeowners and professionals to obtain reliable value insights with speed and convenience.

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Who Uses Desktop Appraisals?

• Homeowners

• Investors

• Real estate agents

• Attorneys

• Financial planners

• Accountants

• Landlords

• Cash buyers

• Property managers

 

If you need a quick, data-driven valuation without a site visit, this is the right appraisal type for you.