Delaware would use outside appraisers when it needs approved values above $25,000 for unneeded transportation land

A qualified outside appraiser would determine approved values above $25,000. This applies when Delaware’s transportation department needs an approved value for property it no longer needs for transportation. For property estimated at $25,000 or less, the department’s chief review appraiser or a qualified outside appraiser would determine the approved value. Above $25,000, a qualified department review appraiser must review and approve the outside appraiser’s work.

The department may transfer qualifying property without an appraisal. This covers property the department acquired and no longer needs for transportation. It may go to a neighboring owner, or to an organized civic or maintenance group for community open space. The department must find that the property has little use on its own. Its chief review appraiser or a qualified outside appraiser must value it below $25,000 or the current limit approved by the Federal Highway Administration. The department must notify every neighboring owner in writing. If several want to buy, it may offer sealed bids or divide the property. After written notice, neighboring owners have two weeks to express interest in buying the property.