Desktop & Drive-By Appraisals

Not every valuation need requires a full interior inspection. In some situations — a quick value check, a property that is difficult to access, or an assignment where the intended user accepts a limited scope — a desktop or drive-by appraisal can provide a supported opinion of value with reduced inspection. These are not shortcuts that sacrifice credibility; they are distinct assignments with their own scope of work, defined by what is inspected, what data is used, and how the value is developed.

Richardson Appraisal Services prepares desktop and exterior-only residential valuations across the Baltimore–Washington metro area. The right scope depends on the assignment's intended use and the property, and we will help you determine whether a limited-scope appraisal is appropriate for your situation.

Desktop Appraisals

A desktop appraisal is completed without a property inspection. The appraiser relies on public records, MLS data, tax information, and other sources to understand the property and analyze recent comparable sales. Because the home is not inspected, the appraisal depends on the accuracy and completeness of available data. A desktop appraisal suits assignments where the intended user accepts this scope and the property data is reliable, but it is not appropriate where an inspection is necessary to credibly reflect condition or features.

Drive-By (Exterior-Only) Appraisals

A drive-by appraisal includes an exterior inspection but no interior access. The appraiser observes the home's exterior, lot, and neighborhood, then combines that with public records and comparable sales data to develop a supported value. The interior condition is not directly observed, which the report discloses. This scope is appropriate where exterior observation plus available data is sufficient for the assignment's intended use — for example, some retrospective assignments where the interior has changed since the effective date, or where access is limited.

Scope Depends on the Assignment

There is no universal "right" scope. A limited-scope appraisal is appropriate only when the intended user accepts that scope and the available data supports a credible conclusion. For some assignments — lending, litigation, or any case where interior condition materially affects value — a full interior inspection is necessary. The appraisal report discloses the scope of work and any assumptions, and the conclusion is valid within that defined scope. No feature adds a fixed amount to value; differences between the subject and comparable sales are analyzed in the context of the local market.

Serving Prince George's, Montgomery, Anne Arundel & Howard Counties, plus the Washington, D.C. metro area

Even limited-scope appraisals depend on credible local comparable data. Our coverage across Prince George's, Montgomery, Anne Arundel & Howard Counties, plus the Washington, D.C. metro area means we work with market data that reflects the specific area where the property sits, supporting credible comparable selection within the chosen scope.

Request Your Desktop or Drive-By Appraisal Quote

If a limited-scope valuation fits your need, we can help determine the right approach. Request a free quote online with your property details and intended use, or call 202-978-6827 to discuss the assignment with a certified residential appraiser.