Happy New Year to all! As we embark on 2025, I'm excited to share some updates and reflect on a successful 2024. After retiring from NJDOT in July 2023, where I served as a staff reviewer and appraiser specializing in condemnation work since 2004, I've been enjoying new ventures and opportunities.
New Beginnings and Continued Expertise:
My time at NJDOT provided invaluable experience in the complexities of condemnation appraisals and honed my skills through reviewing the work of other professionals. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside some of the best in the field.
While I've registered as a state vendor for potential contract work, I've also been busy with bank, divorce, private sales and estate appraisals, both of which I find rewarding. It's been a pleasure applying my expertise to assist clients in these areas.
Navigating the Real Estate Market in 2025:
The economic outlook for the real estate market in 2025 remains uncertain. Many predict a similar or potentially slower market compared to last year. However, as we all know, the market can be unpredictable. Bank lending has dropped off sharply. The rates still remain high compared to a few years ago when buyers took advantage of low rates. Now with the threat of tariffs which could increase cost of housing the future remains highly unpredictable.
Facing Real Estate Challenges?
If you're facing challenging real estate situations, whether it's determining the value of a property for sale or dealing with complex appraisal issues, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always eager to leverage my experience and knowledge to assist you.
The Value of a Professional Appraisal:
In today's market, a professional appraisal is more valuable than ever. Considering the significant value of real estate assets and the costs associated with carrying unsold properties, investing in an appraisal can save you time, money, and stress.
RU Appraisals, LLC is here to support you with your real estate valuation needs. Contact us today for a consultation.
Wishing you all a successful and prosperous 2025!
Greetings too all:
Like most of you, we are into the Spring, and shortly summer will be upon us. In July 2023, I will be retiring from NJDOT as a Staff Reviewer and Appraiser. I have been doing condemnation work since 2004 and have found it interesting and exciting. I have learned new techniques and approaches to valuation issues. In addition, I have testified on my appraisals, along with reviewing others. As a result, you are educated about appraising via a different set of eyes in the review process. Especially when you are fortunate enough to work with some of the top professionals in your field and learn from them; they are very professional and have been in the business for years.
I have managed to stay busy with some bank work and estate work. I have enjoyed doing both. Recently, I updated two land appraisals that I completed for a manufacturing company nearly a year ago. These were narrative reports vs. the forms used by your typical residential appraiser. They were pleased with my work. I love doing research to back up my data. There is a lot that goes into a final valuation. A land assignment in the Pine Barrens is a more complicated process than in other locations. This is because the Pine Barrens has environmental issues that are the main factors that govern what can be done to the land. The average person may not know there is a lot more to our environmentally sensitive area. The Pine Lands Commission regulates most of the Pine Barrens, so developing the land has to be approved by the commission. I have done appraisals in the Pine Barrens and know how to prepare a proper land appraisal. Please call me if you have any questions on the specific topic. Recently, I completed a residential sale in my Village Five in Whiting. There was a lack of sales, and most were older. Nearly a year old. The meeting of the minds took place, which was the agreed-upon price. My gut told me it was a supply and demand issue. In the end, it was. I had those older sales. Plus, a recent sale and active listing to conclude the value. At times this is where experience and knowledge come into play. Those prices are increasing due to the sale points, lack of inventory, and demographics. As an appraiser, one must be in tune with many factors determining the final value. Please, by all means, if you have some challenging real estate problems, I would be more than happy to look into them.
Call or text me at 609-203-1194 or email me at raymondunderhill@gmail.com