Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays my appraiser fees and the fees of other experts who will assist me?

Under Florida Law (FL Statute 73.091), the condemning authority is required to pay the landowner’s and business owner’s appraiser fees. All appraiser fees and expert fees are paid separately from any money you recover and do not reduce the amount you recover for your property taken. See Florida Statute Below

73.091 Costs of the proceedings.—

(1) The petitioner shall pay attorney’s fees as provided in s. 73.092 as well as all reasonable costs incurred in the defense of the proceedings in the circuit court, including, but not limited to, reasonable appraisal fees and, when business damages are compensable, a reasonable accountant’s fee, to be assessed by that court. No prejudgment interest shall be paid on costs or attorney’s fees.

What is Eminent Domain?

Eminent Domain is the power of the government to take private property for public use. The Florida Constitution provides that a property owner is entitled to receive fullcompensation for the taking of their property.

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

The eminent domain appraisal field requires special expertise and experience. We personally have over 50 years combined experience specializing in the eminent domain field.

Do you provide legal advice?

Real estate appraisers cannot provide legal advice. You need an attorney for that. 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 prepared to go to trial, if necessary?

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. Our firm has been involved in numerous jury trials, as well as other court hearings.

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

Our firm is intentionally designed to handle all size cases. We are willing and able to handle both small and large cases.

Do you have your own appraisal staff?

We perform 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!

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

We have experienced appraisers available to answer questions or concerns throughout the entire process. Our partners are very responsive to your questions and input. Put us to the test and call Jess or Richard right now!