Do I Need a Home Appraisal Before Selling in Port Washington?

Do you need a home appraisal before selling your Port Washington home?
Not always — but in many cases, an appraisal can be helpful. Whether you should get one depends on your goals, the type of property, and the local market conditions.

What a Home Appraisal Is

A home appraisal is a professional evaluation of your home’s value, typically conducted by a licensed appraiser. Appraisers look at:

• Comparable recent sales in Port Washington

• Condition of your home

• Location factors (such as proximity to the waterfront, LIRR, or Main Street)

• Market trends

Appraisals are most commonly ordered by banks during the buyer’s mortgage process, but sellers sometimes choose to get one upfront.

When a Seller Might Get an Appraisal

1. Unique Homes
   If your home is unlike others nearby (waterfront, custom renovations, or unusual layout), an appraisal can provide a benchmark.

2. Estate or Divorce Sales
   Appraisals are often required in legal situations to establish fair value.

3. Setting Expectations
   Some sellers use appraisals to confirm whether their pricing aligns with the market.

When a CMA May Be Enough

A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), prepared by a REALTOR, often provides the same insights as an appraisal — but it’s free. A CMA compares your home with similar recent sales in Port Washington and current listings to suggest a competitive asking price.

Eric Berman, REALTOR, provides CMAs tailored to Port Washington neighborhoods, factoring in:

• Waterfront vs. inland values

• School district demand

• Buyer preferences for walkability and amenities

How Appraisals Affect the Sale

• During the Buyer’s Process: If a buyer is financing, their lender will require an appraisal. If it comes in low, negotiations may follow.

• Cash Buyers: Appraisals are optional for cash deals, though some buyers still order them for peace of mind.

• Market Shifts: In fast-changing markets, appraisals may lag behind true buyer demand, which is why working with an experienced local agent is key.

Bottom Line

You don’t have to order a home appraisal before selling in Port Washington, but in some cases, it’s useful. Most sellers rely on a CMA from their REALTOR to set the asking price, and then the buyer’s lender orders the appraisal later in the process.

Thinking about selling your Port Washington home? Contact Eric Berman for a free Comparative Market Analysis and expert guidance tailored to today’s market.

Meta Description:
Do you need a home appraisal before selling in Port Washington? Learn when it’s helpful, how it compares to a CMA, and why REALTOR Eric Berman can guide your pricing strategy.