Skip to main content
Market UpdatesJanuary 25, 2020

COVID-19 Market Impact: Appraisals in Unprecedented Times

Analysis of early COVID-19 pandemic impact on real estate market and appraisal procedures.

By Paul Myers

COVID-19 froze the real estate market in March-April 2020, but by May buyers surged back with record demand. I adapted my appraisal methodology with remote inspections, extended comparable timeframes, and market uncertainty disclosures to keep transactions moving.

Initial Impact

March-April saw market freeze. Transactions halted. Appraisals delayed.

But by May, market rebounded strongly. Buyer demand surged. Market adjusted rapidly.

Appraisal Adjustments

I implemented pandemic adjustments:

  • Remote inspections (virtual tours, drive-by appraisals)
  • Extended comparable timeframes (fewer recent sales)
  • Market uncertainty disclosures
  • Risk factor analysis

Market Response

Surprisingly strong. Pandemic drove housing demand surge:

  • Remote work enabling relocation
  • Low rates (Fed cut to near-zero)
  • Inventory constraints
  • Low unemployment (initial)

Real estate proved resilient.

2020 Outlook

Market rebounded faster than anticipated. Activity strong. Prices appreciating.

Appraisals reflect market recovery and optimism.

---

Pandemic appraisal impacts? Market adapted surprisingly well. Contact me.

Related Articles

Additional Resources

Related Articles

Ready for Your Appraisal?

Contact Paul Myers for professional home appraisals throughout Southern California.