Solar Panels

What to know about purchases involving solar panels

This article on solar panels first appeared on www.utahrealtors.com. Homes with solar panels are becoming increasingly common in some markets in Utah. The increase in solar companies, government subsidies, and financing options over the past…
,

USA Today notes St. George as fastest growing Metro area

A recent article by USA Today finds St. George, UT as the fastest growing metro area in the U.S. according to the U.S. Census Bureau. According to the Census Bureau the population of Washington County increased 4% from 2016 to 2017. St. George…

Cost of Commute: Cedar City to St. George

The "Commute: Cedar City to St. George" question comes up a lot during conversations with newly married couples and people looking for entry-level housing. The current lack of entry-level housing in Washington County leaves many families scrambling…
,

How does an appraiser reach an “opinion of market value?”

An opinion of market value is an estimate of how much a property is worth in any given market. An opinion of value is reached by using one of three standard approaches: The Cost Approach estimates what it would cost to replace or reproduce…
,

Can “market value” be different than the contract price or cost of a property?

The short answer is, "Yes!", it is possible for market value to differ from the actual cost of a property or from the contract price. If a buyer is super motivated to purchase a property and is willing to pay at, or above asking price this will…
,

What if the value of my appraisal isn’t what I expected?

In a rapidly changing market, buyers and sellers are often surprised when the appraised value is higher or lower than expected. A higher value will not have an impact on the loan approval process, but a lower value can. The lower appraised value…
,

What increases the value of my home?

If you watch a lot of HGTV you'll find all sorts of information on what makes a home more valuable. In reality it can come down to some basic and simple advice. An appraisal is not simply an addition and subtraction of the costs put into…
,

How come big homes don't appreciate as quickly as small homes?

Over the past 10 years, the market has found it's way back from the lows of 2008/2009. Housing prices in our area (St. George, UT) have climbed to highs and the region has essentially run out of entry level housing and is short on all housing…
,

What can I expect during the appraisal process?

Before the Inspection No need to clean. The appraiser looks at the structure, not the mess. You can choose to be there, or not. Just make sure you leave things unlocked. Leave it open. All rooms must be accessible to the appraiser. …
,

Why is an appraisal required for a loan?

Lenders use the appraisal to determine the appropriate loan amount. Because home values can vary considerably, even in the same neighborhood, it’s important for the lender to have an objective opinion of value for the home before making a…