Real Estate Appraisal Blog | J Graham Appraisals PA

Expert Insights on Home Appraisals in Southeastern Pennsylvania

Welcome to the J Graham Appraisals blog — your trusted resource for residential real estate appraisal information across Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County.

Whether you're buying, selling, refinancing, settling an estate, or navigating a legal matter, our blog covers the questions homeowners, attorneys, and lenders ask most. From understanding what an appraisal includes to preparing for one, we break it down in plain language — always from the perspective of a certified local appraiser.

Explore our latest posts to stay informed, make confident decisions, and better understand the value of your property.

When Do I Need an Appraiser - and Why?

If you’re dealing with real estate in Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, or Chester County, you may find yourself wondering: Do I need a real estate appraiser? The answer depends on your situation—but in many cases, an appraisal is not only helpful, it’s essential.

How to Prepare Your Home for an Appraisal

Whether you're selling, refinancing, or settling an estate, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your property is valued accurately.

Here are simple, effective steps you can take to get your home appraisal-ready:

What Does a Home Appraisal Include?

What exactly does an appraisal include—and why does it matter? A home appraisal is an unbiased, professional opinion of a property's market value, conducted by a state-licensed or certified appraiser. Lenders require appraisals to ensure that the home's value supports the loan amount.

Understanding USPAP: Why It Matters in Residential Appraisals

USPAP stands for the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. It’s a set of quality control standards developed by The Appraisal Foundation and recognized by federal and state agencies. All certified appraisers are required to follow USPAP guidelines to ensure ethical and professional conduct in every appraisal.