dj-howard-and-associates

How Location Impacts Property Value in Southern Illinois

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 17:43:49 GMT

How Location Impacts Property Value in Southern Illinois

In real estate, there’s a reason you’ve heard the phrase “location, location, location” over and over again—it’s one of the most important factors in determining a property's value. At DJ Howard & Associates, we’ve seen firsthand how different areas in Southern Illinois can significantly impact what a property is worth—even when the homes themselves are nearly identical.

Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or simply curious about your property’s current value, here’s how location can influence your appraisal:

1. School Districts Matter

Families place a high value on strong school systems, and homes located in top-performing school districts often command higher prices—even if the homes are smaller or older. In Highland, nearby towns like Edwardsville, O’Fallon, and Breese can see property values influenced heavily by their school ratings.

If your home is in a sought-after district, that alone can add thousands to your appraised value.

2. Rural vs. Urban Appeal

Southern Illinois has a unique mix of rural charm and suburban convenience. Rural properties often offer more land at a lower price per acre, but can also be less appealing to buyers who prioritize proximity to services, shopping, or highways. On the other hand, homes in walkable neighborhoods or near growing commercial areas often see stronger appreciation over time.

For example, homes within Highland’s city limits may appraise differently than a comparable home just outside of town due to access and infrastructure.

3. Local Development and Infrastructure

New roads, commercial developments, and community investments can significantly boost property values. If your home is near a new shopping center, recreational facility, or public transportation option, it may be seen as more desirable—especially to younger buyers and families.

We always factor in upcoming developments or recent zoning changes when determining current market value.

4. Neighborhood Trends and Desirability

Some neighborhoods simply carry more weight due to their reputation, community feel, or historical significance. Factors like low crime rates, quiet streets, well-maintained homes, and community amenities (like parks and bike paths) all contribute to a neighborhood’s desirability—and directly affect appraisal value.

In Southern Illinois, even small town charm can add a premium when the neighborhood is known for being friendly and tight-knit.

5. Proximity to Employment and Services

Commuting distance to major job hubs (like St. Louis) and access to hospitals, grocery stores, or major highways can make a big difference. A home just 10 minutes closer to key destinations can be more attractive to buyers, which plays into market demand and influences appraised value.

Work with Local Appraisers Who Understand the Market

At DJ Howard & Associates, we live and work in the same communities we appraise—so we understand the unique dynamics that affect property values in Highland, IL and surrounding counties. Whether your home is in the heart of town or out in the country, we’ll give you a valuation rooted in local expertise and real market data .

�� Curious what your property is worth? Call us at 618-654-1200 or visit www.djhowardrea.com

5 Common Reasons You Might Need a Property Appraisal (That Aren’t Buying or Selling)

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 17:41:32 GMT

5 Common Reasons You Might Need a Property Appraisal (That Aren’t Buying or Selling)

When people think of property appraisals, the first thing that often comes to mind is buying or selling a home. While those are two of the most common scenarios, appraisals are crucial in many other situations that can significantly impact your finances, your legal standing, or your peace of mind.

At DJ Howard & Associates, we provide professional, unbiased property valuations for a wide range of purposes—many of which have nothing to do with a real estate transaction. Here are five common reasons you might need an appraisal outside of buying or selling:

1. Divorce Settlements

Dividing assets during a divorce can be emotionally and financially complex. If real estate is involved, both parties will need to know the fair market value of the home to ensure an equitable division. An independent, certified appraisal helps prevent disputes and provides documentation that holds up in court.

2. Estate Planning and Probate

Whether you're creating a will or managing a loved one's estate, an appraisal provides a clear, IRS-compliant valuation of real property. Accurate property values are essential for tax reporting, fair distribution of assets, and settling estates efficiently.

3. Property Tax Appeals

If you believe your property tax bill is too high, an appraisal can serve as credible evidence to support your appeal. County assessments don’t always reflect current market conditions, especially after major shifts in property values. A professional appraisal can help you reduce your property tax burden.

4. Refinancing or Home Equity Loans

Lenders often require an updated appraisal to determine how much equity you have in your property before approving a refinance or home equity line of credit (HELOC). A recent, accurate appraisal ensures you qualify for the best possible loan terms and interest rates.

5. Insurance Purposes

Appraisals help determine the replacement value of your home or other structures on your property. This is especially important if you’re insuring high-value homes or making changes to your policy. Ensuring your coverage reflects current value helps avoid under- or over-insurance in the event of damage or loss.

Trust the Local Experts in Highland, IL

At DJ Howard & Associates, we bring decades of experience to every appraisal. Whether you need a valuation for legal, financial, or personal reasons, our certified team is ready to help. We serve clients across Highland, IL and surrounding counties with fast, accurate, and professional service.

�� Need an appraisal for one of these reasons? Call us today at 618-654-1200 or visit www.djhowardrea.com

What to Expect During a Home Appraisal: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 17:39:04 GMT

What to Expect During a Home Appraisal: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to buying, selling, refinancing, or settling an estate, a professional home appraisal plays a critical role. It’s not just about getting a number—it’s about ensuring your property’s value is assessed fairly, accurately, and objectively. At DJ Howard & Associates, we guide clients throughout Highland, IL and surrounding areas through the appraisal process every day. Here’s what you can expect from start to finish:

Step 1: Scheduling and Preparation

Once an appraisal is ordered—either by a lender, attorney, or homeowner—we’ll coordinate a convenient time for the on-site inspection. If you're the homeowner, this is the perfect time to clean up, finish any small repairs, and gather a list of recent upgrades (like a new roof, HVAC system, or remodeled kitchen). A tidy, well-maintained home can make a strong first impression.

Step 2: The On-Site Visit

During the property visit, our licensed appraiser will walk through your home to assess its condition , layout , square footage , and any updates or improvements you've made. We’ll also examine features such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, lot size, garage or basement, and overall functionality. Exterior condition, landscaping, and neighborhood influences are also taken into account.

Don’t worry—this visit is typically completed within 30–60 minutes depending on the size of the home.

Step 3: Market Analysis and Comparables

After the visit, our work continues behind the scenes. We research recent sales of similar properties—called “comps”—within your area. Factors such as location, age, square footage, and condition all influence how your home compares to others on the market. Our goal is to deliver a fair, market-supported valuation using real-time local data.

Step 4: Final Report Delivery

Within just a few days, we deliver a detailed appraisal report outlining our findings, the comparable properties used, and the final estimated market value of your home. This report is often used by lenders, attorneys, or real estate agents to support critical decisions.

Tips to Maximize Your Appraisal Value

Tidy up inside and out – Clean homes photograph and present better.
List your upgrades – New appliances, systems, or renovations can add value.
Curb appeal matters – First impressions start at the curb.
Fix the little things – Leaky faucets, cracked windows, or chipped paint can lower perceived value.
Be available – Make scheduling the visit easy and ensure the appraiser has full access to the property.

Work with Local Experts Who Understand the Market

At DJ Howard & Associates, we’ve been serving Highland, IL and the surrounding counties for over 25 years. Our licensed and certified team provides fast, reliable, and fair valuations for homeowners, lenders, attorneys, and real estate professionals.

�� Ready to schedule your appraisal? Call us today at 618-654-1200 or visit www.djhowardrea.com