You are not obligated to accept the government’s appraisal of your property or its offer of compensation. The fair market value of the property should be based on its highest and best use, which may not be its current use.
When the government acquires your property, it will deposit the full amount of its offer with the Clerk of Court. With the proper filings, that money is yours to use without forfeiting the right to continue fighting for a higher settlement.
Your right to compensation includes not only the property taken but also the reduced value of any remaining property, a factor overlooked or under-valued in many initial compensation offers.