Home appraisals are designed to allow the home owner or potential buyer to understand the value of the property. Home appraisals for mortgages are also used to confirm to the lender that the price and value of the home is accurate compared to the purchase price and borrowed amount.

A home appraisal is different than a home inspection, so be very clear when booking a home appraisal to get a certified home appraiser and not a home inspector. Many appraisers request a copy of a home inspection, so both professionals will likely be involved in your process of buying a home.

A home appraiser should be a qualified, certified professional that is a member of one of the national or state based associations such as the American Society of Appraisers or the National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers or Master Appraisers. Most states also have their own criteria for professional standards.