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Inside the Mind of an Appraiser: How We Actually Pick Comparable Sales (and No, It’s Not Random)

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Ever had a client or agent ask, “Why didn’t you use the sale down the street?” Yeah… we get that one a lot. Truth is, appraisers don’t just grab three random houses off Zillow and call it a day. There’s actually a method (and a little madness) behind every comp that makes it onto your appraisal report. As a state-certified residential appraiser here in Montgomery County , I spend way too many late nights cross-referencing MLS, county records, and TrueTracts maps to make sure every sale I use actually reflects the market for your property. Here’s a peek behind the curtain. 🔍 Step 1: Location, Location… Market Area Forget the myth that every comp must be within a one-mile radius. That might work in a cookie-cutter subdivision, but around Lake Conroe , you’ve got waterfront, acreage, cul-de-sacs, and houses with shops big enough to store a small aircraft. What really matters is the market area — homes competing for the same buyer. Sometimes that’s within a mile, sometimes it’s a...

The Complete Guide to Home Appraisals in Montgomery County, TX

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Everything You Need to Know from a Local State-Certified Residential Appraiser If you're buying, selling, refinancing, protesting your property taxes, or dealing with estate planning—chances are, you'll need a home appraisal at some point. But here's the thing: most people (including agents) only think they understand what an appraisal really is. As a State-Certified Residential Appraiser serving Conroe, Willis, The Woodlands, Montgomery, and the rest of Montgomery County , I’m here to pull back the curtain and give you the real scoop—without the fluff or lender lingo. 🏡 What Is a Home Appraisal? A home appraisal is an unbiased, professional opinion of a property's value, completed by a licensed appraiser. It’s usually required by lenders during a real estate transaction, but there are many other reasons to get one (more on that below). This isn’t a Zestimate. This isn’t what your neighbor said they sold their house for. This is a valuation based on market dat...

Conroe TX Home Appraisals: The Top Factors Driving Value in 2025

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Conroe isn’t the same sleepy little town it used to be. Between new master-planned communities, stronger schools, and the ever-present draw of Lake Conroe, the market here keeps shifting. If you’re buying, selling, or just curious about what your property is worth, it helps to understand what’s really driving Conroe TX home appraisals in 2025. Let’s break it down. 1. The New Construction Boom Conroe has been one of the fastest-growing cities in Montgomery County, and new subdivisions are springing up everywhere. Grand Central Park, The Woodlands Hills, and smaller boutique developments are setting the tone for values. From an appraisal perspective, new construction creates both opportunity and challenge. On one hand, these homes often set a higher benchmark that can help lift nearby resale values. On the other, incentives offered by builders — like covering closing costs or throwing in upgrades — don’t always translate into appraised value. Appraisers have to carefully weigh what the ...

Top 5 Questions Homeowners Ask About the Appraisal Process

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If you’ve ever found yourself Googling “Why is my house worth less than Zillow says?” at 2 a.m. — you’re not alone. As a residential appraiser here in Montgomery County, I get hit with the same handful of questions all the time. So, let’s clear up some myths, save you some stress, and maybe even stop those late-night Zillow panic sessions. 1. Can I be there for the appraisal? Yep — and honestly, I don’t mind. You’re welcome to walk me through your home, point out upgrades, and tell me about that brand-new roof you just installed. Just know I can’t “negotiate” the value on the spot. I’m there to observe, measure, and analyze — not haggle like we’re at a flea market. 2. Do my upgrades really count? They sure do… but here’s the kicker: only if the market cares. Granite counters? Likely a plus. A built-in saltwater aquarium in the living room? Cool, but buyers might not pay extra for it. I look at what buyers in your area are actually paying more for — not just what you spent. 3...

The Woodlands Hills: What You Need to Know About Home Appraisals in Willis’ Hottest New Community

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If you’ve been anywhere near Willis, TX in the past few years, you’ve probably heard the buzz about The Woodlands Hills — the master-planned community that’s making even long-time locals stop and say, “Wait, when did THAT get here?” With tree-lined streets, miles of trails, resort-style amenities, and homes from multiple respected builders, it’s not just a neighborhood — it’s basically a lifestyle brand. But if you’re buying or selling here, there’s one big question that always comes up: How do appraisals work in a place like this? Let’s break it down. 1. Multiple Builders = Multiple Price Points The Woodlands Hills isn’t a one-size-fits-all subdivision. You’ve got builders like Chesmar, Westin, David Weekley, and Highland Homes — all offering different floor plans, finishes, and upgrade packages. From an appraisal perspective, that means your neighbor’s home might look similar in size but have a very different market value. We’re talking about differences in brick/stone combina...

Why Are the GLA Adjustments So Low on My Appraisal? (Here’s the Truth)

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Seven Coves Subdivision Spotlight: What You Need to Know Before Buying or Selling in Willis, TX

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  Thinking about dipping your toes into Seven Coves ? Whether you’re listing your waterfront dream home, looking for lake access without the mega-mansion price tag, or just curious about what this Willis gem has to offer — I’ve got you covered. Here’s your no-nonsense guide to what makes Seven Coves special, what impacts property values, and why it’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to appraise around Lake Conroe. 🏡 What Makes Seven Coves Unique? Seven Coves isn’t just any old lakeside community. This place has personality — and a pretty good-sized one at that. ✅ Location, Location, Lake Nestled on a peninsula that juts right into Lake Conroe, Seven Coves offers true waterfront homes, canal homes, and off-water homes with lake access. Depending on your lot, you could have a boat slip in your backyard or just be a golf cart ride away from the marina. ✅ Amenities Galore Private marina & boat ramps Lakeside swimming pool Tennis courts Basketball courts Fis...