9. An appraisal made by a certified appraiser is required

Answer: C

Explanation:

An appraisal made by a certified appraiser is required when the buyer is using an FHA loan to purchase.

An appraisal conducted by a certified appraiser is mandatory when financing a home through an FHA loan. This requirement ensures that the property meets necessary standards and is valued appropriately to protect both the lender and the borrower.

A) before real property can transfer from one owner to another

While appraisals are often conducted during property transfers, they are not universally required before all real estate transactions. There are various scenarios where property can be transferred without an appraisal, such as cash purchases or certain exemptions.

B) when heirs receive property

An appraisal is not necessarily required when heirs receive property, as this can occur via inheritance without a formal appraisal process. The need for an appraisal in such instances depends on various factors, including estate taxes and personal preferences.

C) when the buyer is using an FHA loan to purchase

This option is correct because FHA loans specifically require a certified appraisal to ensure the property meets certain safety and value standards. This requirement protects the interests of both the lender and the buyer, ensuring that the investment is sound.

D) before any property settlement in a divorce

An appraisal may be helpful in determining property value during a divorce settlement, but it is not a mandatory requirement. The necessity for an appraisal can vary based on the couple's agreements and the nature of the assets involved.

Conclusion

The requirement for a certified appraisal specifically applies to buyers using FHA loans, as it ensures that the property meets certain standards and is appropriately valued. Other options do not universally necessitate an appraisal, making them incorrect in this context. Thus, option C stands out as the only definitive requirement among the choices provided.