Residential appraisal services

Property types we appraise

Single-family homes

Detached homes make up most of our work: bungalows, two-storeys, split-levels, character homes and new construction. We inspect inside and out, measure the living area, and note updates, finishes, basement development and garages. We then compare the home with recent sales of similar properties in the same neighbourhood or community.

Condominiums and townhouses

For condo units we look beyond square footage. Unit location within the building, views, parking, storage, amenities and condominium fees all influence value. We compare against recent sales in the same building or similar buildings nearby.

Side-by-sides, duplexes and small multi-unit buildings

Attached and multi-family housing is a large part of the market in Winnipeg, Steinbach and the Pembina Valley. We appraise side-by-sides, duplexes and small multi-unit residential buildings, considering both comparable sales and, where relevant, rental income.

Acreages and country residential

Rural properties need more than a house measurement. We document wells, cisterns, septic systems, outbuildings, shelterbelts and site features, and we separate the contribution of land, home and buildings.

Farm residences

When a home sits on a farm yard, lenders usually want the value of the residence and a reasonable building site. We confirm the scope with you and your lender before the inspection so the report answers the right question.

Why people order appraisals

• Mortgage financing and refinancing. Lender-accepted reports for purchases, refinances, equity takeouts and switches.
• Private sales. An independent value when buying or selling without a realtor, or between family members.
• Estates and probate. Current or retrospective (date-of-death) values for executors, lawyers and accountants.
• Separation and divorce. Independent values for dividing family property under Manitoba law.
• Tax and accounting. Values for capital gains calculations, transfers and changes in use.
• Personal decisions. Know where you stand before listing, renovating or buying out a co-owner.

What is in our report

Each report describes the property, its neighbourhood and the market, and sets out the comparable sales used and the adjustments made. It includes photographs, a sketch with measurements, and a clear statement of the value conclusion and the date it applies to. Lender reports follow the formats Canadian lenders expect.

Preparing for the inspection

You do not need to stage the home, but a little preparation helps:

• Make sure every room, the basement, garage and any outbuildings are accessible.
• Have a list of recent updates ready, with approximate dates and costs.
• For rural properties, know your water source and septic type.
• For condos, have the unit's monthly fee and parking or storage details on hand.

Common questions