Hiring Your Appraiser
Questions to Ask

How many years of experience do you have specializing in eminent domain?

Eminent Domain is the taking of private property for governmental purposes, and this appraisal field requires special expertise and experience.  Some real estate appraisers may have many years of mortgage appraisal experience but virtually no experience in the eminent domain field.  We personally have over 60 years combined experience specializing in the eminent domain field.

Do you have your own appraisal staff?

Some appraisers will obtain an assignment from a property owner, and then subcontract it to some other appraisal company. Calhoun, Collister & Parham performs all our work in- house and will not subcontract your case to some other appraisal company. (We will work with you from beginning to end).

Are you prepared to go to trial, if necessary?

Most appraisers have little or no experience preparing for trial. It is always hoped an eminent domain taking can be resolved without resort to trial.  However, if this is not possible and your case must proceed to trial to receive fair compensation, then it is important for you to have a real estate appraisal firm with actual trial experience.  The founders of our state felt property rights are so important that eminent domain jury trials must have 12 jury members (most types of trials have only 6 jurors). Calhoun, Collister & Parham has been involved in numerous jury trials, as well as other court hearings.

Do some appraisers indicate they will provide you  legal advice?

Real estate appraisers cannot provide legal advice. You need an attorney for that.  If any appraiser indicates they will be providing you with legal advice, then they are stepping beyond their bounds of expertise.  We know many very good eminent domain attorneys and are willing to recommend one to you, if desired.  However, Calhoun, Collister & Parham will not be providing any legal advice.

Are you willing to work on smaller cases as well as large?

Some appraisers are unwilling to work on smaller cases, while other appraisers are unable to handle the larger ones due to staff constraints or a lack of experience.  Calhoun, Collister & Parham is willing and able to handle small and large cases.

How available will you be if I have questions or concerns?

Some appraisers can be difficult to track down after they have been hired until they face a deadline.  At that point, it may be too late to address your questions or concerns. Calhoun, Collister & Parham is available for you from the beginning through the conclusion of your case. Your calls are returned promptly by all members of our firm as well as the principals.

How much will you cost me?

Some appraisers may ask you to advance them some of their fee.  Calhoun, Collister & Parham will not ask you to pay our fee at any time.

Are you familiar with my area?

Most appraisers restrict their practice to a limited area due to staff and time constraints.  It would be inefficient for many appraisers to work outside their immediate area.  Calhoun, Collister & Parham has a large staff with experience throughout the state.