First Premier Appraisal was founded on one simple principle: every valuation should be earned through honest analysis, not assumed through convenience.
Derek Dabish founded First Premier Appraisal with a clear mission: to raise the standard for residential valuation in Southeast Michigan. A lifelong Rochester-area resident, Derek holds the Certified Residential Appraiser designation from the State of Michigan — the highest credential for appraisers focused on single-family and small residential properties.
Derek's path into appraisal started with a love of homes, neighborhoods, and the stories they carry. Early in his career, he saw how a single number on a page could change the trajectory of a family's finances. That weight shaped his approach: every report is treated like it matters, because it always does.
Over the years, Derek has completed more than a thousand residential appraisals across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties. He has worked with homeowners, lenders, attorneys, CPAs, real estate agents, and relocation companies — each with different needs, all with the same expectation of honesty.
When Derek isn't measuring square footage or analyzing comparables, you'll find him exploring Rochester's downtown, walking the Paint Creek Trail with his family, or volunteering with local community organizations.
Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser — State of Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Every report is written in strict conformity with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.
Ongoing coursework in market analysis, cost approach, green building, and advanced residential techniques.
Fully insured with Errors & Omissions coverage for your peace of mind.
Approved on numerous Appraisal Management Company and direct-lender panels throughout Michigan.
Thousands of hours of on-the-ground experience in Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, Troy, and beyond.
The name First Premier reflects a promise. First — because we believe our clients deserve to come first, always. Premier — because nothing less than exceptional is acceptable when your home, your case, or your transaction is on the line.
We started FP Appraisal because we saw an industry that, too often, treated appraisals like paperwork. We wanted to do it differently: real research, real site visits, real conversations with clients, and reports that reflect the actual market — not a shortcut.
Today, FP Appraisal is a boutique firm by design. We stay small enough to care, and skilled enough to deliver work that stands up in front of any underwriter, attorney, or judge.
Let's talk about your situation and how we can help.
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