Some useful hints to speed your appraisal along from Comprehensive Valuation Services, LLC

By law, you, as a borrower, are are entitled to receive a copy of the final appraisal report from the lender. Just give us a call at 8596532842 if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To speed up the appraisal process, it's beneficial to have these documents ready for the appraiser:

  • A plot plan or survey of the house and land (if readily available).

  • Any records on the purchase of the property for 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.

  • Title policy that describes encroachments or easements.

  • Most recent real estate tax bill and or legal description of the property.

  • Home inspection reports, or other recent reports for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, septic systems and wells.

  • A list of any major home improvements and enhancements, the date of their installation and their cost (for example, the addition of energy efficiency upgrades 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".

  • Information on "Homeowners Associations" or condominium covenants and fees.

  • A list of "proposed" improvements if the property is to be appraised "as complete".

When the appraiser has arrived, you do not need to escort him or her along on the entire site inspection, but it's helpful be available to answer questions about your property and identify any home improvements.

Here are a few other tips:

  • Accessibility: Appraisers are very meticulous in their inspections. Make sure that all areas of the home are accessible, especially the attic and crawl space.

  • Housekeeping: Appraisers see hundreds 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 generally suggest fixing small 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: putting smoke detectors on all levels and especially near bedrooms, ensuring there are electrical receptacles in every room (note: GFI outlets are no longer required) and that each outlet functions, fixing leaky or dripping faucets, fixing broken windows or other glass like doors.