Understanding Appraisals and What to Do If Your Home Doesn’t Appraise for Its Purchase Price

Understanding Appraisals and What to Do If Your Home Doesn't Appraise for Its Purchase PriceIt can be a bit of a surprise if your home turns out to be valued at less than the purchase price offered, but this is the type of thing that can occur in an appraisal situation. While this can change everything from your contract to the amount of your down payment if your home has been appraised at less than you envisioned, here are some options you may want to consider.

Review The Appraisal Contingency Clause

If an appraisal contingency clause is built into the terms of your contract, this means that the terms of your contract can be re-evaluated and re-negotiated if an appraisal happens to come up short. While this is meant primarily to protect the homebuyer against a lower appraisal, it doesn’t mean that the terms of a new deal can’t be met for the good of both parties.

Get A Second Appraisal

It’s entirely possible that the initial appraisal is accurate, but it doesn’t necessarily hurt to get a second opinion in the event that the first appraisal seems too low. While you can work in conjunction with your lender to get a second appraisal, you may need to pay for it the second time around in order to get your initial purchasing price. Whether it happens to be good news or bad news, it can be worth the peace of mind to know how to proceed.

Consider A Lower Price

It’s less than ideal when your home is appraised for less than the purchase price, but this doesn’t have to be a deal breaker when it comes to selling it. While you may be able to get away with a higher price for your home in a hot real estate market, if things have cooled off, this can be an important time to re-negotiate the deal you’ve got. If a potential buyer likes your home and has already made an offer, they may be happy to decide on new contract terms.

It can be quite disappointing if your home is appraised at a value that is less than the offer you’ve received, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have to put your home back on the market. Whether you and the potential buyer decide to re-negotiate or get a second opinion, there are options that can be beneficial for both parties. Give me a call with any questions – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

150 E Wing Drive Sedona, AZ 86336

$1,890,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in East Cup Of Gold Estates, Sedona
Open House
$1,890,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,117 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783845
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover a stunning private retreat in a dream outdoor setting! This turn-key vacation rental, located in the charming Cup of Gold Estates, features a huge fenced yard, a saltwater pool/spa, + oversized party patio. Just steps from Oak Creek, local hiking/biking trails, and miles of national forest, this idyllic home boasts 3 BD 2.5 BA 2119 sq ft on .73 acres. Total renovation completed in 2021, this home offers tranquility, comfort, and luxury. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the expansive 18,500-gallon pool, surrounded by rolling red rock hills and endless outdoor adventures. Currently an award-winning 5-star Airbnb for 3 years, there's an option to purchase all furniture and supplies for a turnkey vacation rental, complete with 2025 bookings. Seller is owner agent. See supplement. 10 REASONS YOU WILL FALL IN LOVE WITH THIS PROPERTY: 1. PRIME LOCATION: Situated on the nature park side of West Sedona, this home is walking distance to Oak Creek, Red Rock State Park, local hiking trails, and endless national forest. Located blissfully away from the traffic congestion of Uptown Sedona & VOC, this property offers seclusion yet convenience. Enjoy peace, privacy, and a feeling of being away from it all while still only a 5 mile drive to the conveniences of West Sedona. 2. SO MUCH MORE THAN A HOUSE: This stunning property features a spacious 2,119 sq ft primary residence, complemented by a charming 352 sq ft fully screened Arizona Room. Enjoy outdoor living on a sprawling 2,000+ sq ft red rock flagstone patio, a luxurious oversized saltwater pool with a hot tub, and a fully fenced backyard complete with a fire pit and cozy seatingall nestled on .73 acres of serene private land in the picturesque Cup of Gold Estates. 3. TURN KEY VACATION RENTAL: With airbnb bookings on the calendar through September 2025 & a $100K furniture package option (through separate bill of sale), this property can be purchased as a fully furnished, turn key vacation rental, complete with the important items necessary to run a successful STR: TVs, furniture, beds, mattresses, plenty of towels, sheets, bedding, dishes, pots/pans, appliances, ping pong table, pool floats, guest robes, baby crib, toys, coloring books, patio furniture and more. Step into ownership of an award-winning 5-star vacation rental easily and quickly. All you need to do is take over the booking calendar! 5. OAK CREEK ACCESS: Experience the beauty of nature just steps away from Sedona's year-round Oak Creek. With community access for Cup of Gold property owners via a designated parcel adjacent to the property, you can stroll along the creek, exploring the scenic paths that lead east to Cross Creek Ranch or west into miles of expansive national forest. Don't miss the enchanting falls at Oak Creek, where you can relax on majestic boulders while enjoying the soothing sounds of gentle waterfalls. 6. UNPARALLELED OUTDOOR SANCTUARY: Immerse yourself in resort-style living with an 18,500+ gallon, beautifully curved saltwater pool, ideal for a refreshing dip under the Sedona sun. The extra-large beautifully curved red rock flagstone patio offers the perfect space for outdoor grilling, dining al fresco, sunbathing, and taking in the surrounding red rock views. The 8-person saltwater hot tub/jacuzzi adorned with cobalt blue Spanish tile gets piping hot with the touch of a button, providing the ultimate spot for unwinding and stargazing. 7. EMBRACE NATURE'S WONDER: Discover the enchanting beauty of the outdoors, with delightful surprises around every corner. Witness year-round hummingbirds, hot air balloons gracing the early morning skies, and gentle deer, along with spirited javelinas strolling through the front yard. Experience the vibrant colors of changing leaves in the fall and the serene charm of a snow-covered landscape in winter. The property is alive with butterflies, vibrant songbirds, morning doves, and curious dragonflies, all drawn to the wild rosemary and blooming desert flora. 8. OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST'S PARADISE: Step out the front door of this property to endless outdoor adventures! Walk to nearby Lime Kiln Trail, where a brief hike leads you to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and Sedona's iconic Cathedral Rock. For nature lovers, the neighboring Red Rock State Park offers a stunning 286-acre preserve featuring a five-mile network of hiking trails (please note that an entrance fee is required). Equestrians will delight in the numerous scenic trails available for horseback riding. Additionally, thrill-seekers will appreciate the proximity to off-roading trails like the Cliffhanger Trail, located just one mile from your doorstepperfect for exhilarating ATV and UTV rides. 9. TOP TO BOTTOM RENOVATION: Experience the luxury of a fully remodeled home, where every detail has been meticulously upgraded. Revel in the grandeur of a brand-new, spacious kitchen, all new appliances, as well as beautifully renovated bathrooms and bedrooms. Fresh doors, trim, and new interior and exterior paint enhance the home's appeal. The Arizona Room has been transformed with new screens, flooring, and doors, providing a seamless connection to the outdoors. You'll also find new blinds on all windows and stunning new flooring throughout. The pièce de résistance is the addition of a resort-style party patio, complete with a saltwater pool and spa, an inviting outdoor fire pit, and a sprawling fenced yardperfect for entertaining and relaxation! 10. ULTIMATE PRIVACY: Whether you envision this home as your primary residence, a cozy second vacation home, or a fully functional short-term rental, you'll truly value the privacy it offers. Surrounded by mature juniper trees and featuring a spacious, fully fenced backyard, this property ensures the perfect blend of seclusion and tranquility, allowing you to unwind in peace.

14914 E Zapata Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,888,888
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,708 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784099
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your mountain sanctuary! Perched atop a serene peak, this new custom-built home that has never been occupied offers breathtaking 360-degree unobstructed views of nature's finest panoramas with no neighbors in sight to interrupt the tranquility. This exclusive cul-de-sac lot provides the utmost privacy with a private gate and long driveway that offers 8 car slab parking. As you enter, you'll be greeted by soaring 15 ft high ceilings in the living room and dining room, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying cozy evenings by the 75-inch fireplace. The heart of this home lies in the kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, massive 66-inch stainless steel refrigerator with ice maker and water dispenser spacious walk-in pantry, 42-inch cabinets with soft close, wine cooler. Pot filler, microwave wall oven combo, and a remarkable 10x6 ft waterfall edge island with double sink that seamlessly integrates style and functionality. Retreat to the sanctuary of the master suite, complete with a double sink, private toilet room, walk-in rain shower and separate tub, fireplace, and a huge walk-in closet. Each of the bedrooms boasts 12 ft high ceilings and large walk-in closets, ensuring comfort and convenience for every member of the family. With 1.5 acres of pristine land surrounding your home, there's ample space to create your own outdoor oasis. A stunning infinity pool and spa that not only offers refreshment on hot summer days but also serves as a mesmerizing centerpiece against the backdrop of the majestic mountains. Step outside through the slider doors to the patio, where indoor-outdoor living reaches new heights. Host unforgettable gatherings around the barbecue grill, or simply unwind and admire the mountain views with ceiling fans to keep you comfortable. Additional features include quartz countertops throughout the house, 8 ft high doors, ceiling fans for year-round comfort, 3-car garage, 8 ft high garage doors, pre-wired with EV charging capability and the perfect touch of elegance with a second fireplace in the living room. Vinyl plank flooring & upgraded window coverings add the perfect finishing touches. The home is pre-plumbed for a water softener. Water circulation plumb that provides instant hot water. 2x6 ft wood framing with spray foam insulation which can save utilities up to 50% compared with standard insulation!

6711 E Camelback Road Unit 3 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,885,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,240 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759570
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This stunning Santa Fe style townhome in the highly sought-after Pavoreal community showcases timeless upgrades that match the character and charm of this special architecture. The newer modern custom kitchen is the heart of the home. The great room includes a living/dining area with a wet bar and wine cooler, perfect for entertaining guests. Featuring 2 fireplaces, 2 primary suites, and a large third bedroom, this offers flexible living spaces to suit your needs. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and lots of closet space.Outside, enjoy a relaxing water feature in the rear patio, providing a peaceful retreat within the heart of downtown Scottsdale just minutes from the Phoenician Resort and Spa. Pavoreal is guard-gated for added security and is just a short walk to Fashion Square.

7571 E Visao Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,885,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,306 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773848
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Premium oversized lot!This home is set to be featured on an upcoming episode of HGTV. Look no further for a contemporary residence with a resort-style backyard - your dream home awaits! Jewel box designer home. TURN KEY! Situated in the exclusive guard-gated community of Bellasera, this impeccably renovated estate, crafted by the esteemed Designs by Alexandra based in California, presents a sophisticated living experience. Boasting 4 bedrooms, including a GUEST HOUSE with a private exterior entrance, 3.5 bathrooms, a 2-car epoxy garage, and more, this residence is a true gem. Upon entering, you'll be captivated by the sun-drenched living room featuring a wall of glass that seamlessly opens to the beautifully landscaped resort-style backyard with a desert oasis vibe and a brand new pool!

12746 E Casitas Del Rio Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,881,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,599 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707716
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
NEW CONSTRUCTION - ESTIMATED COMPLETION DECEMBER 2024, Modern, Desert Contemporary style architecture! This open 3bdr/3.5bth/Study floor plan offers ample space for entertaining. The Caullins' welcoming covered entry and inviting foyer lead to the spacious great room and dining room, with views of the large covered patio beyond that opens to natural area open space. The well-designed kitchen is equipped with a large center island with breakfast bar, plenty of counter and cabinet space, and ample dual pantries. The beautiful primary bedroom suite is highlighted by a huge walk-in closet and deluxe primary bath with dual-sink vanity, large soaking tub, luxe glass-enclosed shower and private water closet. Landscape includes spool, outdoor kitchen and fire feature.

2748 E Hummingbird Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$1,880,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,092 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6728237
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Elegance Redefined - Nestled in the heart of a serene neighborhood of Whitewing at Germann Estates, this exquisite residence boasts an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends modern luxury with timeless charm. As you enter through the grand entrance, you're greeted by a breathtaking courtyard that sets the tone for the opulent experience that awaits. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, a culinary haven equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, sleek quartz countertops, and a spacious island that invites social gatherings. The open-plan living area, bathed in natural light, features soaring ceilings and a chic fireplace, creating an ambiance of warmth and sophistication. Retreat to the primary suite, a sanctuary of tranquility with its private bathroom that offers a spa-like experience where a soaking tub and rain shower await to wash away the stresses of the day. The finishes and thoughtful design create a space that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Each bedroom is complete with en suites, providing the ultimate in comfort and convenience. The den and/or craft room is complete with built in cabinets and shelves. The flex room is a perfect place to turn into any space that you seem fit with its endless possibilities, along with all the natural light that pours in, and access to another outside patio. Outside to the backyard oasis - an entertainer's dream with a sparkling pool, spa, an outdoor shower that adds a touch of indulgence, perfect for cooling down on warm summer days or rinsing off after a dip in the pool. An entertaining space, along with plenty of open space to truly make it your own. This home is not just a dwelling but a statement of luxury and comfort. It's where every detail is meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled living experience. Make it yours and live the life you've always dreamed of.

4452 E Lincoln Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,880,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,817 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734421
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy breathtaking Camelback Mountain views from the kitchen and dining room. Situated over an acre of land with an RV Garage, this home offers plenty of space to roam. The gourmet kitchen features a massive center island, perfect for entertaining. Cozy up to the impressive two-sided stone fireplace. Don't miss this rare opportunity for a New Construction home or renovation in Paradise Valley.

4412 E Sells Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,880,000 - 4Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Cavalier Palms 1-41, Phoenix
Open House
$1,880,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
2,731 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6700680
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the allure of this exquisite, newly built single-level sanctuary meticulously designed by Signature Homes, nestled in the vibrant heart of Phoenix Arcadia with awe-inspiring views of Camelback Mountain. Spanning 2,731 square feet, this home offers an enchanting blend of elegance and functionality, featuring 4 spacious bedrooms, each boasting ample walk-in closets and 4 luxurious en-suite full bathrooms, complemented by a convenient powder room and a dedicated office space. The gourmet kitchen is a culinary haven, seamlessly flowing into a grand great room adorned with a cozy fireplace, creating an inviting ambiance for gatherings and relaxation. A separate dining area, elegantly connected through a stylish butler's pantry, sets the stage for entertaining guests. Outside, the rear of the home unveils a covered seating area, ample yard pace, a gas line for a BBQ set up, and a large pool with seperate spa. Perfectly situated near top-tier dining establishments, premier shopping destinations, and esteemed schools, this home embodies the epitome of luxurious contemporary living, offering a lifestyle of unparalleled comfort, style, and sophistication.

10801 E Happy Valley Road Unit 133 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,875,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,944 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769638
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Do not miss this exceptional opportunity to reside in the exclusive guard-gated community of Glenn Moor, one of the most sought-after, well-managed, and friendly neighborhoods in North Scottsdale, often considered the crown jewel of Troon Village. This exquisite home is surrounded by the lush fairways of Troon Country Club and has breathtaking views of Pinnacle Peak and Troon Mountain. The location offers an ideal backdrop for living a private and peaceful lifestyle while being conveniently situated in the heart of all that Troon has to offer. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a grand circular drive, elevated setting, and lush landscaping, creating a charming yet regal frontage. The living and formal dining area features elegant lofty ceilings with intricate detailing, a custom media wall, a striking stacked stone fireplace, complemented by floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the natural Sonoran beauty indoors. The gourmet kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances, custom cabinetry, granite counters, a tile backsplash, an oversized island, casual dining area and views through every window. Glass sliders lead to the property's unique outdoor space, featuring a central area with multiple tiered patios, embraced by stunning mountain vistas, forming an open-air, amphitheater-like oasis. For those whose wish list includes a private pool, this area invites the opportunity to add your personal touch to this home. Well considered updates include ceramic wood-like flooring, a marble tiled entrance way, a primary suite transformed to a private sanctuary, complete with a flexible office/workout room, breathtaking views, and a spa-like ensuite featuring a standalone soaking tub, steam shower, dual vanities, a tiled walk-in shower, and two spacious walk-in closets. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the side-entry four car garage, space for additional parking, 3 spacious storage rooms, an electric car charger, and the added convenience of an elevator leading to the main living level. Come and experience for yourself how this extraordinary property can become your dream home in the heart of Troon Village.

11457 E Blanche Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,875,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,806 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747568
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Magnificently remodeled home is located 1.1 miles up the mountain on a peaceful cul-de-sac, in prestigious 24 hour/day guard-gated Cimarron Hills - within the highly desirable master planned community of McDowell Mountain Ranch. Upon entering the gated courtyard is a tranquil waterfall and entrance to the beautiful and private attached guest casita with en-suite bath. The luxurious custom Water-Jet Marble floor in the foyer, welcomes you as enter this spacious, open floor plan. Upgrades include White Oak Hardwood Flooring throughout the home, Thermador kitchen appliances, gas cook-top, custom oversized island, new Hunter Douglas automated blinds, 54'' linear fireplace, custom floor to ceiling blackout drapes in the spacious primary bedroom with high-end plumbing and fixtures, freestanding tub, marble vanities & shower in the spa-like primary retreat. The breakfast nook overlooks the waterfall of the lagoon style aqua, pool/spa. The outdoor resort-like retreat also includes mountain views from the patio, new BBQ, firepit, synthetic grass, and new power retractable awning off the primary bedroom for a cabana like feel. NEW A/C unit 8/24. Amazing MMR amenities, Community Center with workout room, pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, Aquatic Center. Conveniently located to walking trails, MMR golf, shopping, restaurants, freeway and 27 minutes to Sky Harbor Airport. MUST-SEE!

24235 W Pinnacle Vista Lane Wittmann, AZ 85361

$1,875,000
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,299 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750049
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Arizona RANCH ESTATE... Spectacular five- plus acre property with main house, guest house and four-plus car garage. Fully fenced and landscaped, this home offers so much to you. The main house is four bedrooms and three- and one-half baths, with two office/dens, large living room, dining room and spacious kitchen. Totaling 4,760 square feet. The adjacent guest house, 1,539 square feet, offers two bedrooms, two baths and a spacious great room. Large, storage ready garage, accommodates four cars, plus extra space. Add to all this, the covered patio area, basketball court, gardens, paved circular drive and fencing and you have an estate. Bring your horses! Or Airbnb? Or family estate?

17340 E Hidden Green Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,875,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,956 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765377
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Through the gates of prestigious Trilogy at Verde River, lies this stunning residence of perfection! Sitting on an impressive 21,533.00 sq. ft homesite this beautiful semi-custom home built by Monterey Homes is something to behold. This elegant Milan plan features an open layout with 3 ensuite bedrooms, plus a powder room, office, living room, beautiful wet bar that serves the spacious great room with fireplace, a gourmet kitchen, a side courtyard, and an expansive wraparound patio which creates the perfect outdoor space to entertain family and friends. Beautifully upgraded Chef inspired kitchen opens to Great room. The backyard features stunning Swimming Pool and Spa, and lots of seating for outdoor entertainment. All this and more set in one of the valley's most scenic locations in the world class Trilogy community. Trilogy at Verde River offers upscale Resort living at its finest and the very best of all possible worlds, close to the conveniences of affluent North Scottsdale, yet secreted within the pristine privacy of the Sonoran Desert. The amenities are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickle ball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails. Whether you're seeking a second, winter home, or will live here year-round, Trilogy at Verde River is an ideal distance from the hustle and bustle of North Scottsdale. Attitudes here are different; there's a sense of community. You'll love the Resort living! What memories will you make?

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