Appraisals and More

Is Your Home Value the Key to Lowering Your Monthly Mortgage?
If you bought your home in Hampton Roads within the last few years, you might be sitting on a "hidden" savings opportunity. Many homeowners in Virginia BeachNorfolk, and Chesapeake are paying for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) that they no longer actually need.
At Angel’s Appraisals, we specialize in the specific valuations required by lenders to cancel this extra monthly fee. Here is what you need to know about using an appraisal to drop your PMI.
What is PMI and Why Are You Paying It?
Lenders typically require PMI if your down payment was less than 20% of the home's purchase price. This insurance protects the lender—not you—and can add $100 to $300+ to your mortgage every single month.
The "Magic" 80% Number
To cancel PMI, your Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio must generally be 80% or less. You reach this point in two ways:
  1. Paying down your principal over many years.
  2. Increased home value through market appreciation or renovations.
Because the Hampton Roads market has seen steady growth recently, your home’s current value might have already pushed your equity over that 20% threshold.
3 Steps to Remove PMI with an Appraisal
  1. Check with Your Servicer: Every lender has specific rules. Some require a written request, while others have "seasoning" requirements (the length of time you've owned the home).
  2. Order a Professional Appraisal: Once your lender confirms you are eligible, they will often require a new appraisal to prove the home's current market value.
  3. Submit the Results: If our appraisal shows your equity is at 20% (or sometimes 25% depending on the loan age), your lender can move to cancel your PMI payments immediately.
Why Choose Angel’s Appraisals for Your PMI Removal?
Lenders are strict about the quality of appraisals they accept. We understand the local market nuances—from the impact of flood zones in Portsmouth to the high demand for properties near NAS Oceana—ensuring you get a fair and accurate valuation that stands up to lender scrutiny.
Stop paying for insurance you don't need.
  • Office: 1957 Wolfsnare Rd., Virginia Beach, VA
  • Contact: Call us at (757) 776-2042 or start your inquiry at AngelsAppraisals.com.

The 2026 "Appraisal Gap": Why Your Hampton Roads Home Might Not Meet Its Price Tag
In the current 2026 Hampton Roads real estate market, we are seeing a recurring challenge: the appraisal gap. While local home equity has skyrocketed over the last five years in cities like Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, the market is shifting. With more listings available and buyers becoming increasingly analytical, an agreed-upon "contract price" doesn't always align with a property’s "appraised value".
At Angel’s Appraisals, we’ve identified the three most common reasons this gap occurs right now—and how you can bridge it.
1. The "2021 Mindset" vs. 2026 Reality
Many sellers are still pricing their homes based on the peak optimism of a few years ago. However, appraisers must rely on recent comparable sales (comps).
  • The Issue: If your neighbor’s house sold for a premium in a low-inventory market, that data may no longer support a similar price today as inventory has risen by 12–45% across Virginia.
  • The Fix: Work with a professional to build a "value story" using only the most recent, similar closings within your specific neighborhood.
2. The "Move-In Ready" Requirement
In 2026, Hampton Roads buyers have little tolerance for deferred maintenance.
  • The Issue: Small safety or maintenance issues—like peeling paint on older homes, aging HVAC systems (which wear faster in our coastal salt air), or moisture in crawl spaces—are frequent "red flags" that can drag down a valuation.
  • The Fix: Address "big-ticket" items like roof wear or HVAC functionality before the appraiser arrives. Even small fixes, like fresh paint and tidy landscaping, significantly impact the appraiser’s mathematical assessment of "effective age" and condition.
3. Unpermitted "Bonus" Spaces
Hampton Roads homeowners often add value through renovations, but there’s a catch: permits.
  • The Issue: An unpermitted room addition or a finished basement without proper documentation is a major appraisal red flag. Appraisers may not be able to include that square footage in the official valuation if it wasn't legally recorded.
  • The Fix: Keep a comprehensive file of all permits, receipts, and warranties for upgrades to provide to the appraiser during the inspection.
Need a Local Expert?
Whether you are preparing for a sale, a refinance, or an estate settlement, Angel’s Appraisals provides accurate, dependable valuations across the entire Hampton Roads region.
  • Office: 1957 Wolfsnare Rd., Virginia Beach, VA
  • Contact: Call us at (757) 776-2042 or visit AngelsAppraisals.com.

February 4th, 2026 3:54 PM

Who I Serve

I work with:

  • Homeowners wanting to know what their home is really worth
  • Realtors who want accurate numbers before a listing hits the market
  • Lenders who need reliable, UAD-compliant reports
  • Investors hunting for realistic ARVs and project guidance
  • Attorneys handling estates, divorces, and tax situations
  • Anyone who wants data over drama

If a property needs measured, valued, analyzed, double-checked, or sorted out — chances are, I’m your Angel!


February 1st, 2026 3:18 PM
Hello, 


Please watch the quick 15 second video to get the free offer!

https://youtu.be/1VjOmDijDY4?si=3GNG863yPzZl5ifq

Thank you; 

Angel Groce
Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser
757-776-2042

”Everyone needs an Angel on their side”

 




Posted by Angel Groce on February 1st, 2026 3:18 PMLeave a Comment

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February 1st, 2026 3:00 PM

What Makes Us Different

Sure, every appraisal company says they’re accurate and professional. But here’s how we walk the walk:

  • Local expertise rooted in real boots-on-the-ground experience
    Hampton Roads, Eastern Shore, North Carolina — every market is its own puzzle, and I love putting the pieces together.
  • Clear communication (no jargon, no attitude)
    I explain things the way real humans speak. If my mama couldn’t understand it, I rewrite it.
  • Fast turn times without cutting corners
    Efficiency matters — but not at the expense of quality. I don’t play that game.
  • A reputation built on trust, not shortcuts
    My clients come back because they know I’ll tell them the truth, even when it’s inconvenient.

Meet Angel Groce — The Wings Behind Every Smart Real Estate Decision

If you’ve ever bought or sold a home, you know one thing for sure: emotions run high and everyone suddenly becomes an expert. That’s where I come in — not as the loudest voice in the room, but as the one grounded in data, experience, and good old-fashioned common sense.
I’m Angel Groce, Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser, owner of Angel’s Appraisals, and the woman who believes everyone deserves an angel on their side during one of the biggest financial moments of their life.

I’ve spent the past eight years serving Hampton Roads, the Eastern Shore, and now expanding strong into North Carolina. My mission is simple: deliver honest, defensible, high-quality valuations that give people clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

No fluff. No guesswork. No smoke and mirrors.
Just accurate numbers, straight talk, and a little humor to keep things human.


As an appraiser, one of the most common questions I hear is: “Do solar panels increase the value of my home?” The short answer is: not at this time. While solar panels may absolutely help a property sell more quickly, and sometimes for a higher contract price, they do not consistently raise the appraised value—and that’s an important distinction.

Why Appraisals Don’t Automatically Count Solar

When I complete an appraisal, I rely on comparable sales to establish value. If there aren’t enough recent sales of homes with solar panels in the same market, there’s no credible way to prove a measurable difference in value. The reality is that in many neighborhoods, comparable sales with solar are scarce, so I cannot assign added value without documented market support (Appraisal Buzz).

Ownership Is Key

Another factor I must consider is ownership. If the solar system is leased or financed in a way that allows the panels to be repossessed, I cannot treat them as part of the real estate. Only owned systems—or those financed as fixtures to the property—are even eligible to be considered for value (Fannie Mae, Kokosing Solar). This excludes a large portion of installations, since many homeowners opt for lease or PPA agreements.

Why I Don’t Adjust the Numbers

Even when panels are owned, most appraisers (myself included) remain cautious. To assign value, I would need comprehensive documentation: copies of recent energy bills both before and after installation, proof of the system’s cost, warranties, production reports, and clear evidence of long-term savings. Without that data, there’s no reliable way to calculate the contributory value of the system. In those cases, I typically note the panels in the report but do not apply a dollar adjustment. Some colleagues may make very small “nominal” adjustments, but generally they don’t change the appraised value in any meaningful way (Reddit appraisal thread).

The Buyer’s Market vs. The Appraiser’s Job

Now, buyers often do see solar as a bonus. Zillow reported that homes with owned solar systems sold for an average of 4.1% more—about $9,000 on a typical sale (Boston Solar). Other research shows they can sell faster and, in some cases, for as much as 17% more (EcoFlow).

But my role as an appraiser is not to predict what a buyer might pay in enthusiasm—it’s to reflect proven market data. Until solar panels show consistent, documented contributions to sale prices across neighborhoods, they won’t be a reliable source of added value in an appraisal.

My Conclusion

So here’s the bottom line from an appraiser’s perspective: solar panels may help you sell, but they won’t reliably raise your appraised value—yet. The market is evolving, and I expect this to change as more data builds. For now, think of solar as a great feature that improves marketability, not as a guaranteed value booster on paper.


Posted by Angel Groce on August 17th, 2025 9:47 AMLeave a Comment

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At Angel’s Appraisals, we believe our work goes far beyond property valuation. We measure value in people, in service, and in impact. That’s why giving back to our community isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are.

One of the most meaningful ways we serve is through our deep involvement with Compassion Advocacy Network (CAN), a Virginia-based nonprofit dedicated to restoring dignity and connection to elderly individuals who are often forgotten. Whether it’s through their CAN Help Bags or one-on-one visits with isolated seniors, CAN is on a mission to ensure that no one ages alone or unloved.

Our founder and lead appraiser, Angel Groce, is not only a longtime supporter of this organization—she also proudly serves on the board. Her leadership, strategic mindset, and heart for service make her a driving force behind one of CAN’s largest initiatives: the Annual “Adopt Someone Forgotten” Golf Tournament. This powerful event raises crucial funds to support CAN’s year-round programming and reminds the community that business and compassion can—and should—go hand in hand.

?????? Learn more about this year’s tournament and how you can get involved here: 5th Annual Golf Tournament Info

Why Community Engagement Matters in Business

You may ask, why does an appraisal company devote so much energy to a nonprofit that serves the elderly?

Because community engagement builds stronger businesses.

According to research by Harvard Business Review, companies that support social causes experience higher employee satisfaction, increased customer loyalty, and stronger reputations in their industries. (Source)

For Angel’s Appraisals, giving back has also led to new partnerships, increased visibility, and deeper roots in the Hampton Roads region. Clients appreciate knowing their dollars are also supporting a mission, and vendors are more likely to partner with a business that shows up for its community.

The Personal Impact of Service

Angel’s involvement with CAN isn’t just professional—it’s personal. She has witnessed firsthand how small gestures of care—like a birthday balloon bouquet or a warm meal—can light up a room and restore someone’s dignity.

Serving with CAN reminds our team of the “why” behind the work: every appraisal we complete helps families make informed decisions about their properties—but more importantly, every hour Angel spends serving with CAN helps families know they’re not forgotten.

A Call to Local Businesses

If you’re a local business owner, we encourage you to ask: What can we do to make a difference?

Whether it’s volunteering your time, offering your services pro bono, or sponsoring events like the CAN Golf Tournament, your business can be a vehicle for good. And when you serve with integrity, the community takes notice.

?? “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” – Winston Churchill

At Angel’s Appraisals, we’re proud to build more than just a business—we’re building legacy, compassion, and connection.


If you’re considering ways to increase your home’s value, you’ve probably thought about the kitchen, maybe new flooring… but what about adding a bathroom?

In many cases, adding a bathroom can significantly boost your home’s resale value, especially in competitive markets like Hampton Roads, North Carolina, and the Eastern Shore. But before you break out the sledgehammer, here’s what you need to know from a professional appraisal standpoint

More Bathrooms = More Value

According to the National Association of Home Builders, adding a full bathroom can increase a home’s value by up to 20%, depending on location, layout, and the current number of bathrooms (source). Homes with fewer than two bathrooms often see the biggest return on investment.

In fact, Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report estimates that a midrange bathroom addition in the South Atlantic region recoups around 50–60% of its cost at resale (source). That’s not bad—especially if your current bathroom situation is holding back your home’s marketability.

When It’s Worth It

  • If your home has only one bathroom: Adding even a half-bath can make a huge difference in buyer appeal.

  • If there’s unused space: Think closets, under-stair areas, or space near the laundry room.

  • If you're prepping to sell soon: Strategic upgrades like this can make your listing stand out in markets like Chesapeake, VA or Moyock, NC.

  •  When to Think Twice

  • If it throws off your floor plan: A weird layout can hurt more than help.

  • If the plumbing work is extensive: Costs can skyrocket quickly.

  • If you’re over-improving: Don’t go for a spa-level buildout if your neighborhood comps don’t support it.

Need Guidance?

Before you make a major renovation decision, get a professional opinion. At Angel’s Appraisals, we provide objective home valuations across Hampton Roads, North Carolina, and the Eastern Shore. Our certified appraisers can tell you exactly how an additional bathroom might impact your property’s value—and if it’s worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

Adding a bathroom can increase your home’s value—but only if it makes sense for your layout, budget, and market. Think of it as a strategic investment, not just a home improvement.

Curious how your home stacks up in your local market? Contact Angel’s Appraisals today for a professional evaluation.


Appraising Homes on an 'Apples to Apples' Basis

One of the most critical principles in real estate appraisal is ensuring that property comparisons are made on an 'apples to apples' basis. That means selecting comparable properties that closely match the subject home in terms of location, size, condition, amenities, and other key factors.

As noted by HousingWire, inaccurate comps can lead to inflated or deflated appraisals that affect buyer decisions, lender risk, and homeowner equity (source: https://www.housingwire.com/articles/45364-appraising-apples-to-apples/). The goal is to minimize adjustments by choosing the most similar homes available and understanding how minor differences impact value.

Spurgeon Appraisals explains that appraisers must look beyond square footage and bedroom count to evaluate elements like curb appeal, interior updates, and neighborhood influence (source: https://www.spurgeonappraisals.com/basic-appraisal-concepts/apples-oranges-and-comparable-sales). At Angel’s Appraisals, we pride ourselves on our detailed approach to selecting comps that reflect true market behavior—ensuring our clients receive accurate, fair valuations every time.

Learn more at https://www.angelsappraisals.com/