Very interesting phrase.. synonyms being "there appears to be [sth]" and a more direct form "it would appear there is [sth]". As @dailypro would know, saying something indirectly, has the effect in English, of coming across as more polite. So seems to be or appears to be are more often used in polite conversations where the speaker doesn't wish to risk offending the listener in any way, yet still wishes to make a point.

These postings are very useful. I have been trying my utmost to convince my daughters who are bilingual, to make such posts. Perhaps a collaboration via discord? Lets' grow together! ;-)