Answers by Jason Casebolt

Rather than pay for an appraisal, you could reach out to a trusted real estate agent and they can prepare a CMA(comparative market analysis) for you at no cost, and their report will take into account market conditions and what is going on in your market. That being said, if the goal is just for refinancing, then an appraisal would be required, and in my experience, they usually cost $500.

I would strongly suggest contacting a local real estate attorney. Most can answer this question at no charge.