Lake Conroe Appraisals Blog

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...

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...