By Joseph T Ellington Jr – Licensed Residential Appraiser, Capital Valuations. Updated September 2026.
How a Virginia FSBO seller hires an appraiser
A seller handling the transaction without a listing agent can commission a private appraisal before marketing. The first step is to define the report’s client, intended use, effective date, inspection scope and delivery. Capital Valuations serves the Hampton Roads and Peninsula communities listed on our site, within the assignment and credential’s scope; we do not claim to serve every locality in Virginia. For a local seller’s perspective, read when to order a Virginia Beach FSBO appraisal and review offers.
What to ask in the first call
- Is the property a detached home, townhome or condo, and where is it located?
- What decision will the report inform: listing price, co-owner discussion, cash offer or something else?
- Are there additions, unfinished work, water features or unusual restrictions?
- What date, inspection and report format are needed?
- When is the decision due, and who will provide access?
Joe Ellington holds a Virginia Licensed Residential Appraiser credential. A licensed appraiser’s scope is not unlimited; confirm the property and assignment before engagement. The DPOR lookup helps verify a Virginia credential.
What the report does and does not do
| Can help with | Separate work |
|---|---|
| Independent market-value opinion | Agent marketing and buyer outreach |
| Property description and comparable analysis | Home inspection and specialist repairs |
| Context for a seller’s pricing decision | Purchase agreement, title and legal disclosure |
| Specific dated report for its client | Buyer’s lender appraisal and underwriting |
For a cash offer, the parties may request their own private reports; read our cash-sale guide. A financed buyer’s lender will choose its own valuation process. Consult Virginia disclosure resources and qualified legal help for the sales contract. For questions about the seller’s report and proceeds, see FSBO appraisal findings and offer review.
Local next steps
For Chesapeake, Portsmouth and Norfolk, see our dedicated Chesapeake, Portsmouth and Norfolk FSBO articles. For a quote, contact Capital Valuations with the address and intended use.
