Land Conservation Appraisals

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 A: A conservation easement appraisal determines the value of the easement itself — calculated as the difference between the property's fair market value before the easement is placed on it and the value after the easement restrictions are applied. This 'before and after' value is required for tax deduction purposes, government program participation, and easement purchase transactions.

A: The IRS requires that donated conservation easements be valued by a qualified appraiser meeting specific standards under Treasury Regulation §1.170A-13. An improperly prepared appraisal can result in denial of the charitable deduction or IRS penalties. For government-funded programs such as PennDOT, NRCS, or Pennsylvania's Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Program (ACEPP), the appraisal must also conform to USPAP and often to the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions (UASFLA / Yellow Book).

 A: We appraise agricultural conservation easements, open space easements, and historic preservation easements. Our appraisers have completed numerous assignments conforming to the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions (Yellow Book) and the Farm and Ranch Protection Program, across western Pennsylvania.

A: Yes, in several ways. A donated conservation easement may qualify as a charitable deduction for federal income tax purposes, reducing your taxable income. It can also reduce estate taxes by lowering the property's appraised value, which can be especially important for heirs inheriting farmland or large tracts. In some cases, property taxes may also be reduced. Consult your tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

A: Contact us today for a free, no-obligation appraisal quote. You can call us at 814.456.2900, email corporate@ssl-rea.com, or submit a request through the contact form on our website. We typically respond within the same business day.