Appraisers vs. Realtors vs. Trulia

“257-0”.

That’s the number of times — including twice just this morning — that I’ve been called by appraisers wanting the “scoop” on a property I’ve sold, vs. the number of times I’ve called an appraiser to find out the same.

Which makes sense:  as the listing agent, I’m thoroughly acquainted with the Comp’s, from the inside out . . . while all they have is the finished square feet, number of bedrooms and baths, and the sales price.

That should give pause to anyone who relies on an appraised value to buy or sell a home — let alone sites like Trulia and Zillow.

P.S.:  Why “257” when I’ve only been involved in perhaps 150 deals?  Because appraisers also handle refinancings.

About the author

Ross Kaplan has 19+ years experience selling real estate all over the Twin Cities. He is also a 12-time consecutive "Super Real Estate Agent," as determined by Mpls. - St. Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business Magazine. Prior to becoming a Realtor, Ross was an attorney (corporate law), CPA, and entrepreneur. He holds an economics degree from Stanford.

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