Glossary · People and paperwork
In short
This is a third-party professional hired to provide an unbiased valuation of business assets, real estate, or the business itself. The SBA requires valuations from an independent appraiser to ensure fair market value.
For real estate and sometimes for the business itself, the lender will hire an independent appraiser to determine the fair market value. This appraisal ensures the collateral being pledged is valued correctly and supports the loan amount. You pay for this report.
SOP 50 10 — Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
U.S. Small Business Administration · SBA Standard Operating Procedure
Last checked 2026-06-15. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Defined by DealRoom.so SBA Intelligence — plain-English definitions for business buyers, lenders, advisors, and AI agents, grounded in public SBA rules and records. Last reviewed 2026-06-15 · Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision. Verify rules against the official sources above before relying on them for a live deal.
Know what you'll need before you apply
Tell us about the deal and who's buying — we'll flag the guaranty, eligibility, and paperwork issues that slow SBA approval before they cost you time.
Free · No documents · Usually same-day