Some useful hints to expedite your appraisal from Shafer Appraisal


	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 4053596587 if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To help the appraisal go as smoothly as possible we generally recommend to have these documents, if available, ready for the appraiser:

A survey or plot map of the property and building (if available).
Any records on the purchase of the property for the last three years.
Written property agreements, such as a maintenance agreement for a shared driveway.
A list of any personal property that is part of the home and you intend to be sold with the home, such as an oven, or a washer and dryer.
Title policy that lists encroachments or easements.
A bill for your most recent real estate taxes which should also contain a legal description of the property.
Any inspection reports, or other recent reports for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, septic systems and wells.
Brag sheet that lists major home improvements and enhancements, the amount of their purchase and date of their installation (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".

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

Here are some other helpful 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 many of homes a year and are no strangers to clutter, but they're human beings too! A good impression can translate into a better value for your home.
Maintenance: We often recommend repairing 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 extra things that should be done before they arrive. Some items they may recommend might be: putting smoke detectors on all levels and especially near bedrooms, removing and repainting where there's paint peeling, fixing leaky or dripping faucets, fixing broken windows or other glass like doors.