24-Hour Pre-Purchase Appraisals for California Buyers
An independent price check while your contingency period is still open.
Buyers paying cash, buying from family, or competing without an appraisal contingency still want to know whether the price makes sense. A pre-purchase desktop appraisal gives you an independent opinion of market value while you can still negotiate or walk away.
Contingency periods are short
California purchase contracts give buyers a limited window to investigate and remove contingencies. A report delivered within 24 hours fits inside that window with room to act on it.
Who orders one
- Cash buyers who won't have a lender's appraisal.
- Buyers who waived the appraisal contingency to win the offer.
- Off-market and family purchases with no listing history to lean on.
- Anyone who wants a second opinion on a price they've been quoted.
What to send
- The listing link or MLS number, if there is one
- Listing photos plus any of your own from the showing
- The contract price and your contingency deadline
Send photos with your order through the upload page, or attach them to a reply to your confirmation email.
Is a desktop appraisal right for this?
Buyers rarely spend more than a showing inside a house before the contingency clock runs out. A desktop appraisal works from listing photos, disclosures and your observations, plus the same market analysis any appraisal uses.
Prepared for every purpose on this site. Brian Ward has prepared desktop appraisals for every purpose listed on this site. Some situations still call for an inspection-based appraisal, so check with your attorney or tax advisor before you order to be sure a desktop report fits your matter.
Questions
Can I use this appraisal for my mortgage?
No. Your lender must order its own appraisal under appraiser-independence rules. This report is for your own decision.
What about a duplex or vacant land?
Cwift appraises single-family homes and condominiums only. For other property types, contact Brian Ward Appraisal.
Often ordered alongside
Pre-Listing Pricing
An independent value before you set the list price.
24-hour details →
Family Transfers & Co-Owner Buyouts
A fair, documented price when a home changes hands inside the family.
24-hour details →
Immigration Sponsors (Form I-864)
Home equity documented for an I-864 Affidavit of Support.
24-hour details →Need this appraisal by this time tomorrow?
Start the order now. Payment and photos start the 24-hour clock, any day of the week.