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As an appraiser, one of the most important tools in your arsenal is a reliable laser measuring device. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for your needs. In this blog, we will compare some of the top laser measuring tools for appraiser. 

I was kind of late to the game on laser measuring for home inspections. For the first 13 years of my career I used the 100 ft tape measure you can get at any hardware store.  I finally made the leap about 8 years ago after I saw a discussion about them on an Appraiser Facebook group. There is a bit of a learning curve and you're going to still want to have the back up 100 foot tape in your car for those very sunny days, but once you've got the hang of them, you will never go back. The following is a brief description and my thoughts on the devices that I have personally used to measure homes. 

1. Leica DISTO D2
The Leica DISTO D2 is a compact and easy-to-use laser measuring tool that is great for appraisers who need a device that is portable and efficient and are not afraid to pay for a premium device. It can measure distances up to 330 feet with an accuracy of +/- 1/16 inch. This device also includes Bluetooth connectivity and is compatible with a range of apps, including SketchUp, AutoCAD, and Excel. The Leica DISTO D2 features a backlit display and a rechargeable battery, making it easy to use in any setting. This is the first laser measuring tool I bought. Its definitely more spendy than some of the other options I'll discuss below, but Disto has a very bright laser that works well in sunny conditions. 

2. Bosch 165FT LDM
The Bosch 165FT LDM is a reliable and affordable laser measuring tool that is great for appraisers who are on a budget. It can measure distances up to 165 feet with an accuracy of +/- 1/16 inch. This device also features a backlit display and a simple user interface, making it easy to use in any setting. This is the 2nd laser device I ended up purchasing. I had misplaced my Disto and didn't want shell out the money for a brand new Disto just incase I was able to find it. This device actually is almost just as good as the Disto and is a lot cheaper. My main complaint is that the Bosch measuring devices seem to burn through batteries way faster than my Disto tools. I recommend using rechargeable batteries for all tools but this one in particular. 

3. Bosch GLM165-25G Green-Beam 165 Ft. Laser Measure
The Bosch GLM165-25G Green-Beam 165 Ft. Laser Measure is a highly accurate laser measuring tool that can measure distances up to 165 feet with an accuracy of +/- 1/16 inch. It features a green laser beam that is up to four times brighter than a standard red laser, making it easier to see in bright light conditions. The Bosch GLM165-25G also includes Bluetooth connectivity and is compatible with a range of apps, including the Bosch MeasureOn app. This is a great tool and I think it is just as good as the Disto D2. The "green-beam" works really well on sunny days. This one also has a setting that will vibrate a little once a successful measurement has been made. That feature is kind of handy when you have to hold the device at an awkward angle and are not sure if you got the measurement. 

In conclusion, the Bosch GLM 50 C, Leica DISTO E7500i, Leica DISTO D2, Bosch 165FT LDM, and Bosch GLM165-25G Green-Beam 165 Ft. Laser Measure are all very decent laser measuring tools for appraisers, and each device offers a range of features and capabilities. If I had to chose one, I would go with Bosch 165FT LDM because it is practically just as good as the Disto D2 and much cheaper.