What Is an Exterior-Only (Drive-By) Appraisal?

Instead of entering the home, the appraiser observes and inspects the:

• Exterior structure

• Roof, foundation, and siding (visual condition)

• Lot size and site influences

• Driveway, porch, garage, and visible improvements

• Neighborhood and surrounding homes

• Location and overall market appeal

 

Interior information is obtained through public records, MLS data, prior sales history, photos (if provided), and property databases.

This approach provides a credible market value estimate while requiring less time and no interior access.

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When Should You Use a Drive-By Appraisal?

Exterior-Only Appraisals are commonly used for:

• Low-risk lending scenarios

• Home equity evaluations

• Pre-foreclosure or occupancy-restricted properties

• Investment or portfolio analysis

• Properties under exterior-only inspection agreements

• Situations where full access is limited or not allowed

• Quick value verification for decision-making

They are less detailed than full appraisals but still offer a dependable market-supported valuation.

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What’s Included in an Exterior-Only Appraisal

Even without interior access, you will receive a detailed, USPAP-compliant report that includes:

• Exterior site and structure analysis

• Market and neighborhood evaluation

• Comparable sales and listing research

• Public record verification

• Market condition adjustments

• Final opinion of market value

• Professional PDF report

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When needed, we may request additional information such as interior photos, prior MLS data, or update lists to increase accuracy.

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Benefits of a Drive-By Appraisal

• Faster turnaround time

• Lower cost than a Full Appraisal

• Ideal for properties with access limitations

• Useful for preliminary or low-risk valuation needs

• Less disruptive to homeowners or occupants

• Still provides a reliable, data-supported valuation

This option offers convenience and efficiency without sacrificing professionalism or accuracy.

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Perfect For:

• Lenders performing low-risk loans

• Investors analyzing residential properties

• Attorneys needing quick valuation references

• Homeowners needing a basic valuation

• Properties with tenants or limited interior access

• Distressed or pre-foreclosure situations