Morris Appraisal, Inc.
Real Estate Appraisal Experts
We’re the Leaders in Los Angeles County. Offices located in Century City & Encino California. Serving the Southern California market for over 25 years.
Certified Real Estate Appraiser. Date of Death. Divorce. Home Appraisals.
As a certified appraiser, Rick Morris, SRA Designated Appraiser, has the know-how and qualifications to provide the level of reliable real estate value opinions that banks and national lending institutions need for mortgages. With over 25 years of experience behind him, he’s prepared to help all his customers with anything from starter homes to the most luxurious new constructions.
Every neighborhood in Los Angeles and Ventura behaves differently. We study the sub-market, inventory mix, and time-appropriate trends before we form an opinion of value. That’s why our clients—homeowners, attorneys, trustees, and loan officers—trust us for divorce appraisals, estate planning, IRS-compliant date-of-death reports, and purchase/refi work that stands up to scrutiny.
Our process is simple and transparent. Confirm scope and effective date, inspect the property, analyze relevant sales, reconcile the data, and deliver a USPAP-compliant report with photos, maps, and supporting exhibits. You’ll know what drives value, what limits it, and how we arrived at the conclusion—useful for settlement talks, underwriting, or a clean listing strategy.
Start With the Purpose and Effective Date
Before anyone talks numbers, it helps to get one thing clear: why you need the appraisal. The purpose drives the scope, and it also sets the effective date (the date the value applies to). For a refinance or PMI removal, the value is typically based on today’s market. For divorce or a date-of-death appraisal, the value ties to a specific date, which changes the research and the data set.
Next, a few small details can make the appraisal smoother and more accurate. If you have a short list of upgrades with dates (roof, HVAC, kitchen, baths, windows, flooring, solar), share it early. Likewise, if the home has an ADU, view influence, or unique design features, call that out up front. Those items often matter in Los Angeles County sub-markets where two similar homes can sell far apart based on presentation, privacy, and quality.
Finally, you should expect clarity—not mystery. Rick explains what drives value, what limits it, and which sales support the conclusion, so you can use the report with confidence. Whether you’re preparing for underwriting, settlement talks, or a clean listing strategy, you’ll know the “why” behind the number. If you’re not sure what type of appraisal fits your situation, call or text and we’ll point you in the right direction before you schedule.
Learn About Rick Morris
Trusted Los Angeles County Real Estate Appraiser (Encino & Century City)
Rick Morris is the President & Owner of Morris Appraisal, Inc. He brings over 25 years of experience to each assignment and is known for clear communication and well-supported reports.
Rick is an expert in:
- Homeowners: refinance, PMI removal, pre-listing, and appraisal reviews
- Attorneys & fiduciaries: divorce, estates, trusts, and litigation support
- Complex properties: architectural and high-value homes, unique and historic residences
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Business Administration (with high honors) from Illinois State University, and he approaches each appraisal with a practical, evidence-based mindset.