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/