Why Choose Cape Appraisal Service?

Choosing the right appraisal company is crucial, especially when decisions involving property values can impact legal proceedings, estate distributions, divorce settlements, or bankruptcy outcomes. As a Wisconsin-certified residential appraiser, my services meet the highest standards of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). I offer non-lender, unbiased appraisals that are widely respected in legal and financial circles. My reports are designed to support clarity and compliance, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.

I regularly work with professionals providing financial advisor services, legal services, and estate planning to ensure that property valuations align with each client’s specific needs and objectives. Whether you’re a homeowner needing a current market analysis or an attorney preparing for litigation, you can trust my expertise and professionalism.

Specialized Appraisal Services Tailored to Your Needs

As an experienced property appraiser, I understand that every appraisal has a purpose, and that purpose often carries significant emotional and financial weight. That’s why I offer a wide range of specialized services, including:

1. Date of Death Appraisals

After the passing of a loved one, accurate property valuation is essential for estate settlement and tax reporting. I provide date-of-death appraisals that deliver retrospective market values based on the actual date of death, even if the appraisal is completed months after the date of death. These appraisals are often required for probate court, IRS reporting, or family trust administration, and I ensure they are both compliant and court-ready.

2. Divorce Appraisals

Dividing property during a divorce requires a fair and objective assessment. My divorce appraisal services deliver impartial evaluations that stand up in legal settings. I work closely with attorneys and mediators to provide accurate market values that support equitable asset distribution and reduce potential disputes.

3. Bankruptcy Appraisals

Filing for bankruptcy often involves presenting a clear picture of your financial position, including the current value of your real estate assets. I provide reliable bankruptcy appraisal services to assist clients and their legal teams in accurately reporting asset values to bankruptcy trustees and the court.

4. Estate Appraisals

As a seasoned estate appraiser, I provide valuations necessary for estate planning, inheritance decisions, and property transfers. I work with trustees, executors, and legal professionals to deliver timely, accurate reports that support your estate strategy and meet all legal requirements.

5. Home Appraisals and Private Appraisals

Whether you’re considering selling your home, refinancing outside of a traditional lender, or simply want to understand your property’s current market value, I offer detailed home appraisals and private appraisal services for homeowners across Southeastern Wisconsin. My reports offer clarity, context, and accurate comparisons that reflect today’s local real estate trends.

6. Property Tax Disputes

If you believe your property has been over-assessed, I can provide an independent appraisal to support your property tax dispute case. My reports are often submitted as evidence during assessment appeals and have successfully helped clients reduce their property tax burdens.

A Real Estate Expert Witness You Can Rely On

My years of experience extend beyond valuation alone—I also serve as a real estate expert witness for a variety of legal matters. Whether for divorce proceedings, estate litigation, or property disputes, my professional, court-tested testimony supports my clients in achieving fair and just outcomes. I am skilled in clearly explaining appraisal methodologies and property market dynamics to judges, juries, and opposing counsel in a way that is accurate and understandable.

A Background That Speaks for Itself

My qualifications as a property appraiser are built on a solid foundation of education, leadership, and community involvement:

Professional Credentials:

• Wisconsin Certified Residential Appraiser (Since 1994)
• Wisconsin Licensed Real Estate Broker (Since 1976)
• Former State of Illinois Licensed Real Estate Broker (2006–2011)
• Former Licensed Title Insurance Agent and Mortgage Loan Originator

Professional Affiliations and Leadership:

• Racine Board of Realtors – Member Since 1976
• President, Racine Board of Realtors – 2008
• Realtor of the Year, Racine Board of Realtors – 2009
• National Association of Realtors – Member Since 1976
• Wisconsin REALTORS® Association – Member Since 1976
• Paul Ryan Builder/Realtor Advisory Board – Since 2000
• Racine County Housing Authority Commissioner – Current
• City of Racine Zoning Board of Appeals – 1995–2001

Academic and Business Background:

• BA Cum Laude, University of Wisconsin
• Completed Graduate Business Courses, University of Wisconsin
• Realty Plus – Co-owner and Designated Broker (1977–1982)
• Heritage Realty – Sales Manager and Director (1982–1987)
• Cape & Associates Real Estate – Owner and Managing Broker (1987–2001)
• Century 21 Savaglio & Cape – Co-owner and Broker (2001–2009)
• Shorewest Realtors – Sales Director (2008–2010)
• RE/MAX Newport Realty – Assistant to Owner/Manager (2010–Present)

Serving Southeastern Wisconsin with Dedication and Integrity

Based in Racine, WI, I proudly serve clients throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. My coverage area includes Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Walworth, and surrounding counties. I’ve built long-standing relationships with local attorneys, estate planners, accountants, and individual homeowners who trust my valuations and guidance.

What sets Cape Appraisal Service apart from other appraisal companies is not just the breadth of experience, but the personal service, fast turnaround times, and unwavering attention to detail. I ensure that every report is tailored to your needs, explained in plain language, and defensible if challenged in court or during mediation.

Let’s Work Together

When it comes to property valuation, working with an experienced property appraiser can make all the difference. Whether you’re preparing for a legal case, administering an estate, resolving a dispute, or simply looking to better understand your home’s value, I’m here to provide trustworthy, professional service every step of the way.

Cape Appraisal Service is your go-to resource for accurate, fair, and timely real estate appraisals in Southeastern Wisconsin. Contact me today at (262) 939-2010 to schedule your appraisal or discuss your needs. Let’s work together to achieve clarity and confidence in your real estate decisions.