When selling your home get a “pencil search” done

Get a Certified Real Estate Appraiser to do a “pencil search” for you. This is often referred to as a “desktop search”, because it can be done on a computer, whilst sitting at an office desk. This is usually a very simple exercise that may only cost in the $50 to $200 range. It doesn’t usually involve an appraiser taking any measurements or photos of the property.

To do a “pencil search” the Real Estate Appraiser will generally look through the county records (methods may vary depending on where you live) and search for comparable house sales. This way they can find a price that best fits your property.

You may be able to use this information to show potential buyers what the property is likely to be worth. You will be able to assure any buyer that the figures were arrived at with the help of a Certified Real Estate Appraiser.

However keep in mind that a “pencil search” is simply what the name implies. No one will physically inspect your property to see what advantages or disadvantages it might have. They won’t check for defects that could potentially alter the value. However, it is still better than you simply guessing at the price range.

As an example, an elderly couple I know were working out there finances to see if they could afford to move to a retirement village. They came to the conclusion, based on what they thought their house was worth, that they couldn’t afford the move. I suggested they arrange a “pencil search” before giving up all hope. They were overjoyed when the appraiser suggested at price of $90,000 more than they had thought the property was worth. Needless to say, their retirement dream became a reality.