Gearing up for an appraisal from Appraisal Solutions


	Did you know the borrower is entitled to receive a copy of the final appraisal report from the lender? Just give us a call at 2565437000 if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To simplify the appraisal process, it's helpful to have these documents ready for the appraiser:

A plot plan or survey of the house and land (if readily available).
Information on the latest purchase of the property in the last three years.
Information on any written private easements, such as a shared driveway with a neighbor.
List of personal property to be sold with the home.
Any paperwork, such as a title policy with information on encroachments or easements encroachments or easements.
Most recent real estate tax bill and or legal description of the property.
Any inspection reports, or other recent reports for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, your septic system and your well.
A list of any major home improvements and enhancements, the date of their installation and their cost (for example, the addition of insulation or roof repairs) and permit confirmation (if available).
A copy of the current listing agreement with broker's data sheet and purchase agreement if a sale is "pending".
Any "Homeowners Associations" agreements or, if applicable, condo covenants or fees.
A list of "suggested" improvements if the property is to be appraised "as complete".

When the appraiser has arrived, you do not need to escort them along on the entire site inspection, but is usually helpful be available to answer questions about your property and be willing to point out any home improvements.

Here are some other suggestions:

Accessibility: Appraisers are very detailed in their inspections. You should make sure that all areas of the home are accessible, especially the attic and crawl space.
Housekeeping: Appraisers see quite a few of homes a year and aren't surprised at seeing a bit of clutter, but they're human beings too! A good impression can translate into a higher home value.
Maintenance: We often suggest repairing minor things like leaky faucets, missing door handles and trim.
FHA and VA Inspection Items: In the case of your borrower trying to apply for either an FHA or VA loan, definitely ask your appraiser if there are specific things that should be done before they come. Some things they may recommend might be: installing a banister on all stairways, ensuring there are electrical receptacles in every room and that each outlet functions, eliminating pull-chain lights in areas other than the basement or attic.