Property valuations expert

An expert appraisal is a technical report that assigns a reasoned value to a property for a specific use: distribution of inheritance, liquidation of assets, sale, contribution in court or support of a negotiation. It does not replace a bank mortgage appraisal, but rather answers different questions. This section includes the most common uses and the documentation that should be gathered before the visit.

When is an expert appraisal needed?

Not all situations require an expert report. In general terms, expert appraisal is useful when the value of the property is going to be discussed before a third party (judge, notary, insurer, counterparty) or when a property decision must be justified with technical criteria.

Frequent uses

• Distribution of inheritance and allocation of assets.
• Liquidation of the community property in a divorce.
• Discrepancy between purchase price and real value.
• Claims for defects that reduce the value of the property.
• Contribution in judicial proceedings or mediation.

Common methodologies

The choice of method depends on the type of property, the intended use of the report and the available market data.

Comparative market method

It is based on real operations and offers of similar properties in the same area. It is the most common approach for housing.

Cost method

It is calculated from the value of the land and the replacement cost of the construction, applying depreciation. It is useful in unique properties or properties without clear comparables.

Income update method

It is used when the property generates income: rented premises, warehouses or buildings for rent.

What the report includes

• Description of the property and verification during the visit.
• Reviewed cadastral and registry documentation.
• Applied methodology and justification.
• Reasoned value with calculations and comparables.
• Photographs and plans when applicable.

Differences with bank appraisal

The mortgage appraisal is governed by ECO Order 805/2003 and responds to the purpose of mortgage guarantee. The expert appraisal is not limited by that framework and is adjusted to the specific use of the report. Both are legitimate, but not interchangeable.

Next steps

• See the full process (help center) to learn how the report is commissioned.
• Gather the necessary documentation ](/en/help/documentacion/) prior to the visit.
• If your doubt depends on the procedural strategy, it is advisable to consult with your lawyer.
• See also specialty property valuations for the scope of the report.
• To discuss your case, use the page contact or write from the help form.