Where can you get a home appraisal in Massachusetts?
You can get a home appraisal in Massachusetts by hiring a state-licensed residential appraiser through an appraisal company, lender, real estate professional referral, or a professional appraisal organization.
If you’re buying, selling, refinancing, or settling an estate, knowing where to get a reliable home appraisal in Massachusetts helps you move forward with confidence and accurate pricing.
Why You Might Need a Home Appraisal in Massachusetts
A home appraisal provides an independent opinion of value based on market data, recent sales, and property condition. In Massachusetts, appraisals are commonly required for:
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Buying or selling a home
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Refinancing or home equity loans
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Estate planning or probate
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Divorce or legal matters
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Removing PMI
Because Massachusetts has a wide range of housing styles; from historic Colonials to new construction, working with a local, licensed appraiser matters.
Who Is Qualified to Perform a Home Appraisal in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, home appraisers must be licensed or certified by the state. They are regulated to ensure professional standards and impartial valuations.
There are three main credential levels:
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Licensed Residential Appraiser
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Certified Residential Appraiser
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Certified General Appraiser
For most single-family homes and condos, a Certified Residential Appraiser is the most common choice.
Where to Get a Home Appraisal in Massachusetts
1. Independent Appraisal Companies
Many homeowners start by contacting a local appraisal firm. These companies specialize in residential valuations and often cover specific regions of Massachusetts, such as Greater Boston, Central MA, or the South Shore.
Best for: Sellers, estate planning, divorces, or pre-listing valuations.
2. Your Mortgage Lender or Bank
If you’re refinancing or purchasing with a loan, your lender will typically order the appraisal for you. This ensures compliance with lending regulations and appraiser independence rules.
Important to know:
You usually cannot choose the appraiser directly when a lender is involved.
3. Referrals From a Real Estate Professional
A local real estate agent can often recommend reputable, licensed appraisers they’ve worked with before. While agents can’t influence the appraised value, they can help you find professionals familiar with your local market.
Best for: Pre-listing appraisals or second opinions.
4. Professional Appraisal Organizations
You can also search professional directories such as the Appraisal Institute, which lists credentialed appraisers across Massachusetts.
Best for: Complex properties or specialized valuation needs.
How Much Does a Home Appraisal Cost in Massachusetts?
While costs vary by location and property type, most home appraisals in Massachusetts typically range from:
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$400–$700 for single-family homes
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Higher for multi-family, historic, or unique properties
Always confirm pricing, turnaround time, and the purpose of the appraisal before booking.
How to Choose the Right Appraiser
When selecting a home appraiser in Massachusetts, look for:
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Active Massachusetts license or certification
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Experience in your specific city or town
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Clear, written appraisal reports
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Transparent pricing and timelines
Avoid choosing solely on price; accuracy and local knowledge matter more.
Final Takeaway
If you’re wondering where to get a home appraisal in Massachusetts, your best options include licensed local appraisers, appraisal companies, lender-ordered appraisals, or professional appraisal directories. The right appraiser will understand your local market and deliver a clear, unbiased valuation you can rely on.
If you’re preparing to buy, sell, or refinance and want guidance on when and how a home appraisal fits into your next move, connect with a local real estate professional who can help you navigate the process with clarity.
Need help finding an appraiser? Give me a call at 508-365-7036
