Some useful hints to save you time on your appraisal from Premier Appraisal Services, LLC

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 3036183701 if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To aid the appraisal process, it's recommended 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.

  • Written property agreements, such as a maintenance agreement for a shared driveway.

  • List of personal property to be sold with the home.

  • Any documents, 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.

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

  • A list of any major home improvements and enhancements, the amount of their purchase and date of their installation (for example, the addition of insulation or roof repairs) and permit confirmation (if available).

  • Find copies of the current listing agreement, broker's data sheet and, if the sale is "pending", the purchase agreement.

  • 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 arrives, you do not need to escort them along on the entire site inspection, but generally you'll want to be available to answer inquiries about your property and be willing to point out any home improvements.

Here are a few other suggestions:

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

  • Housekeeping: Appraisers see a lot of homes a year and aren't surprised at seeing a bit of clutter, but they're human beings too! A good impact can mean a better value for your home.

  • Maintenance: We generally recommend fixing minor things like leaky faucets, missing door handles and trim.

  • FHA and VA Inspection Items: If your borrower is trying to apply for either an FHA or VA loan, definitely ask your appraiser if there are additional things that should be done before they come. Some things they may recommend might be: having a banister on all stairways, ensuring there are electrical receptacles in every room (note: GFI outlets are no longer required) and that each receptacle functions, fixing leaky or dripping faucets, replacing broken glass.