Desktop Appraisals

Need a professional property valuation without scheduling an on-site inspection?
A Desktop Appraisal may provide a convenient, efficient option for certain assignments. I provide Desktop Appraisals throughout Riverside County and San Bernardino County, California.
Using available property information, public records, market data, comparable sales, and other relevant resources, I can develop an opinion of value without physically visiting the property when a desktop approach is appropriate.

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What Is a Desktop Appraisal?

A Desktop Appraisal is a property appraisal completed remotely rather than through an on-site inspection.


Depending on the assignment and available data, I may analyze:

  • Public property records
  • Property characteristics
  • Local market data
  • Relevant comparable sales
  • Parcel and mapping information
  • Available property information
  • Other relevant valuation data

The key difference is simple: I do not physically inspect the property as part of the Desktop Appraisal.

Benefits of a Desktop Appraisal

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No On-Site Inspection

There is no need to schedule a property visit or be present for an inspection.

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Potentially Faster

Without an inspection appointment, the appraisal process may be completed more efficiently.

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Potentially Less Expensive

A Desktop Appraisal may cost less than a Full Interior & Exterior Appraisal because an on-site inspection is not included.

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Convenient

This option can be useful when access to the property is difficult, unnecessary, or not required for the intended use.

Desktop vs. Full Interior & Exterior Appraisal

The primary difference is the property inspection. A Desktop Appraisal is completed using available property and market information without an on-site visit.


A Full Interior & Exterior Appraisal includes a physical inspection of the property's interior and exterior.

How a Desktop Appraisal Works

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1. Provide the Property Details

Send me the property address, property type, reason for the appraisal, applicable valuation date, and other relevant information.

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2. Research & Analysis

I evaluate available property records, market information, comparable sales, and other relevant data to develop the valuation.

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3. Complete the Appraisal

I complete the appraisal according to the agreed scope of work without requiring an on-site property inspection.

Desk with calculator, glasses, notepad, and pastel folders, suggesting a budgeting or planning workspace

When Is a Desktop Appraisal Appropriate?

Whether a Desktop Appraisal is appropriate depends on the property, purpose of the valuation, intended use, available information, and assignment requirements.


It may be an option for certain real estate, estate, financial, tax, or other valuation needs where sufficient property and market information is available and an on-site inspection is not required.


A Desktop Appraisal is not suitable for every assignment. If you are unsure, provide the property details and reason for the valuation, and I can help determine the appropriate appraisal type.

Desktop Appraisal FAQs

  • Do you need to visit my property for a Desktop Appraisal?

    No. A Desktop Appraisal is completed without an on-site property inspection.

  • Is a Desktop Appraisal the same as an online home-value estimate?

    No. A Desktop Appraisal is developed by an appraiser for a specific property and assignment

    using relevant property and market information. It is not simply an automated online estimate.

  • Is a Desktop Appraisal always less expensive?

    Not necessarily. It may cost less than a Full Interior & Exterior Appraisal because an on-site

    inspection is not included. The applicable fee depends on the assignment.

  • Is a Desktop Appraisal faster?

    It may offer faster completion because a property inspection does not need to be scheduled.

    Turnaround time depends on the property, research requirements, complexity, and scheduling.

  • How do I know if a Desktop Appraisal is right for me?

    Tell me why you need the appraisal and provide the property details. I can help determine

    whether a Desktop Appraisal or another appraisal type is appropriate

Request a Desktop Appraisal

Not sure whether you need a Desktop Appraisal or an on-site appraisal? Send me your property details and reason for the valuation, and I can help determine the appropriate option.