Drive-By (Exterior-Only) Appraisals

What this service involves

A drive-by appraisal is a valuation based on an exterior observation of the property plus data from public records, MLS, and comparable sales, without an interior inspection. The deliverable depends on the agreed scope. The key limitation is that the appraiser does not observe the interior condition, so the value assumes the interior is consistent with the exterior and available data.

This is distinct from a desktop appraisal, which uses no inspection at all, and from a full interior appraisal, which includes an interior inspection. A drive-by sits between them: an exterior observation, but no interior.

When someone may need it

A drive-by appraisal may suit situations where an interior inspection is impractical or not required — for example, a preliminary value, a portfolio screening, or a property where the relying party accepts an exterior-only scope. The intended use and the relying party's requirements determine whether a drive-by is acceptable.

What the analysis considers

The appraisal considers the residential property's value from an exterior observation and data:

• Exterior observation: the appraiser observes the property's exterior from the street.
• Public records and MLS data: property characteristics and prior sales.
• Comparable sales: recent sales of similar homes nearby.
• Market conditions: current local supply, demand, and trends.
• Scope limitations: the absence of an interior inspection and its implications.

Information that may help

Helpful items include the property address, any interior photos you can provide to supplement the exterior observation, a list of recent improvements, and the intended use. We do not need loan documents through the general inquiry form.

How the assignment works

We confirm the scope and whether a drive-by is appropriate, observe the property's exterior, gather data, research comparable sales, complete the analysis, and deliver the report. We note the scope limitations — including the absence of an interior inspection — so the relying party understands the basis of the value.