What a full appraisal includes
The appraiser visits the property, measures it, photographs the inside and outside, and notes its condition, layout, finishes and any renovations. They then research recent comparable sales nearby and adjust for the differences to reach a market value.
- Interior and exterior inspection
- Measurements and floor area
- Photos of the property and street
- Comparable sales analysis
- Market value as of the inspection date
Full appraisal vs desktop and drive-by
A desktop appraisal has no site visit, and a drive-by appraisal looks only at the outside. A full appraisal sees everything, so it is the most complete of the three and the one lenders accept for the widest range of files. It also takes the most coordination and usually costs the most.
How much does a full appraisal cost?
For a standard house, fees of roughly $300 to $600 are commonly quoted across Canada. Expect more for large or unusual homes, rural properties, busy big-city markets and rush files. Each property and file is different, which is why we show you the price for your file before you order.
Who orders a full appraisal
Mortgage brokers and lenders order most full appraisals for their clients. Banks, credit unions, monoline lenders, alternative and private lenders and MICs each set their own appraisal requirements. Homeowners also order one to know their value before they sell, refinance or settle a family matter.
Order a full appraisal through AppraisalDesk
Tell us the address, the purpose and the lender’s requirements. We match the order with a qualified local appraiser who meets them, and the appointment is booked with the person who gives access. Real people answer your questions in English or French.
- See the price before you place the order
- Your order is assigned to a qualified local appraiser
- Real-time updates by text and email, and online order tracking
- The borrower can pay online by secure link
- Download the report online and message the appraiser
Frequently asked questions
How much does a home appraisal cost in Canada?
Fees of roughly $300 to $600 are commonly quoted for a standard house. Large, rural or unusual properties and rush files cost more. Each property and file is different, and you see the price before you order.
How long does a full appraisal take?
The visit to a typical house often takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Report timing depends on the market, the property and access, and you get text and email updates as the order moves along.
Do I need to be home for a home appraisal?
Someone needs to let the appraiser in and give access to every area, including the basement, attic hatch and mechanical room. It does not have to be the owner.
Who pays for the appraisal, the borrower or the lender?
In Canada the borrower often pays, though some lenders cover it on certain files. With AppraisalDesk the broker or lender can send the borrower a secure link to pay online.
Will my lender accept the appraisal?
Each lender sets its own rules on who can appraise and what the report must include. Tell us the lender’s requirements when you order and we match an appraiser who meets them.