There are several things that you can do prior to the arrival of the appraiser that can ensure a proper and accurate appraisal.

 

Access

In most cases, the appraiser needs to have access to all areas of the home. Otherwise, the appraiser will need to make the appraisal “subject to” certain assumptions about areas the appraiser cannot access. To facilitate access, you can:

• Make sure that all rooms can be entered by the appraiser. 

• For inspections for the purpose of an FHA mortgage, ensure that the appraiser has clean access to crawlspaces and attics. Access doors must be opened so the appraiser can at least conduct a “head and shoulders” viewing.

• Garages, storage areas, closets, basements, etc. all must be viewed by the appraiser.

• The appraiser will be taking interior and exterior photographs.

 

Legal and Title Issues

No one wants to delay a transaction over legal or title issues. Things like easements or encroachments are often unapparent to the appraiser but show up later when the lender has the title work prepared. Depending on the nature of the legal or title issue, the appraiser may need to consider the impact the issue may have on the appraisal.  If you have information on any of the following, please have it available to the appraiser.

• Information on easements or encroachments

• Copies of permits for additions or recent work on the house

• Property survey

• Information on private road and maintenance agreement, if applicable

 

Other Issues

Generally speaking, the more information that is available to the appraiser, the faster the process will go. If you have any of the following information, please have it available for the appraiser.

• Plans and specifications for original structure and additions, if applicable

• Copies of recent home inspections

• Copies of current sales agreements

• Any other information you feel may be relevant to the appraiser