Drive-By Appraisal

A drive-by appraisal (also called a 2055 exterior-only appraisal) is a USPAP-compliant valuation where the appraiser inspects the property only from the exterior — the curb, public street, or accessible vantage points. Interior conditions are not personally verified. The report uses MLS records, prior listings, public records, and aerial imagery to characterize the interior.

Common uses include: home equity lines of credit, portfolio monitoring, estate planning preliminary values, divorce settlement preliminary valuations, lender appraisal waiver alternatives, and post-close servicing. It’s appropriate when interior access is impractical (tenant occupancy, distant owner, time constraints) and when the lender or end user accepts an exterior-only inspection.

For typical homes in good condition with reliable MLS data, drive-by appraisals are highly accurate. Risk increases when the interior condition differs materially from public records, when recent renovations aren’t reflected, or when unique features can’t be verified externally. The appraisal discloses what was and wasn’t verified so the user understands the limitations.

Drive-by appraisals are typically completed in 2–4 business days. The exterior inspection itself is fast (no scheduling with the owner required), so turnaround depends mostly on comp research and report preparation. Rush options are available for urgent matters.

Drive-by appraisals typically cost 60–80% of a full appraisal, depending on property complexity and intended use. The savings come from the abbreviated inspection — the comp research and report preparation are at the same standard. We provide written quotes before engagement so you can compare options.