Defiance’s #1 Appraisal Service

Choose Defiance’s #1 Appraisal Service for unmatched expertise and objectivity in real estate valuation. Our independent appraisers excel in personalized, unbiased property assessments, untethered by the constraints typical of lender-focused appraisals.

Benefit from our deep market insight and flexible methodology, ideal for homeowners seeking accurate valuations for legal, tax, or personal purposes, free from any conflict of interest.

  • Driven By Integrity
  • Rising Above
  • Beyond The Basics
SRA designation Appraisal Institute
divorce Appraisals

Divorce Appraisals

Having a professional report that is credible and easily defended can give you an unfair advantage. Feel free to have your attorney contact us directly.

Pre-Listing Appraisals

The market is changing. Accurately pricing your property is critical to attracting the right buyers and making sure you are well positioned to sell your home for as much as possible… in the shortest amount of time.

Estate-appraisals

Estate Appraisals

Whether you need a current or retrospective value (based upon the date of death), we are sensitive to your needs during these difficult times.

Insurance Appraisals

Tax Appeal Appraisals

Is the county assessed value of your home out of touch with reality? Would a more accurate value lower your taxes and save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars? We are very familiar with these and can definitely help you with this process.

Find the Right Appraisal For You

As the market changes, the need for accurate and timely valuations has never been more important.

Get a Free Quote Today

Bill Altermatt, SRA

Why Work With Us?

When it comes to hiring an appraiser, their experience matters. There’s just one thing you should keep in mind: not all “experience” is the same. Hi, I’m Bill Altermatt – owner of Altermatt Appraisal Services and an SRA designated member of the Appraisal Institute. Having worked in this business for 20 years, I can tell you that not all experience is created equal. The education and training provided by the Appraisal Institute is the gold standard for the appraisal profession.

Of the nearly 3000 credentialed appraisers in the state of Ohio, less than 100 have earned the SRA designation.

So here is my promise to you: I will begin by defining the scope of work so we can provide the right service to fit your needs. I will take the time to answer all of your questions and make sure your assignment is prioritized once agreed upon. In the end I will provide you with a market supported appraisal report that’s credible—and it will be delivered on time.

Bill Altermatt, SRA

What Our Clients In Defiance, OH Say About Our Home Appraisal Services

Downtown Toledo Skyline, at dusk
Toledo skyline on the Maumee River at twilight

Driven By Integrity

In a fluctuating market, our values remain constant — Honest, Fair, and Credible.

Rising Above

Bill Altermatt is an SRA designated member of the Appraisal Institute. Of the nearly 3000 credentialed appraisers in Ohio, less than 100 hold this designation.

Beyond The Basics

With over 19 years in the field, we see nuances others might miss, ensuring your property’s true value shines.

Downtown Toledo Skyline, at dusk
Toledo skyline on the Maumee River at twilight

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process of an appraisal?

The process of a real estate appraisal begins with the appraiser accepting an assignment and defining the scope of work, whether it's for buying, selling, or refinancing a property. Next, the appraiser conducts a site observation of the property, examining its size, condition, and features. They analyze the market to determine current inventory and market trends. Next, they will research the market for recent sales of similar homes in the area, known as 'comparable sales'. Using this information, the appraiser applies specialized methods, like the Sales Comparison Approach, to support the appraised value. These findings are compiled into a detailed appraisal report, providing a professional valuation of the property.

Why should I get an appraisal?

Getting a real estate appraisal is essential for several key reasons. Firstly, it provides an accurate estimate of your property's value, crucial for fair pricing in sales or refinancing. Appraisals that are conducted by professional appraisers offer unbiased valuations, ensuring you don't overpay or undersell. They are also vital for tax assessments, helping avoid overpayment on property taxes. Additionally, appraisals are important in legal matters, like divorces or estate settlements, where precise property values are needed. Lastly, appraisals can guide home improvement decisions, indicating areas that increase your property's market value. In summary, appraisals are fundamental for informed and equitable real estate decisions.

Why do some appraisers charge less than others?

Not all appraisers are the same. The skill and training of an appraiser greatly impacts the quality of their reports. Some appraisers, especially those not properly trained, lack the expertise to produce credible, accurate appraisals. This can lead to reports that don't truly reflect a property's value. Additionally, while some appraisers might offer services at a lower fee, this can be misleading. A low-cost appraisal that is inaccurate ends up being overpriced, as it doesn't provide the reliable information needed for sound real estate decisions. Therefore, choosing a qualified and experienced appraiser is crucial for obtaining a trustworthy property valuation.

What qualifies as a “residential” property?

Residential properties include single family homes, villas, condominiums, 2-4 unit multi-family dwellings, and vacant land.

Do we perform appraisals for banks and other lenders?

Yes, we perform appraisals for mortgage finance purposes. We are on the approved list for most banks, mortgage companies and credit unions. We are selective about which lender clients we work with. If you are a lender and would like to inquire about appraisal needs in the greater Toledo area, just give us a call. We welcome the conversation to see if we’re a good fit for each other.