FAQ

How are you handling COVID restrictions?

Our business is considered “essential” due to the necessity of appraisals in financial transactions.  We are fully vaccinated, and our shoes are taken off at the door.  Our tools (typically only an iPad and laser measurer) are disinfected after each walk-through.  At your request we can also wear a face mask and latex gloves (disposed of after each walk-through).   

We highly recommend that doors to each room be opened, and all lights turned on.  In that case we really have no need to touch anything in your home.  That is entirely up to you and your comfort level.  No matter what we ask that you keep all occupants of the house at a distance, not only because “safe distancing” recommendations, but because it also helps us to view your house as quickly as possible.

What is required from the owner during the appraisal?

Aside from providing access to the property to be appraised, the owner can speed up the process by ensuring that the entire house is available for the walk-through inspection.  If photos are required for the assignment, please keep in mind we cannot photograph children (or adults), so all rooms must be free of occupants long enough for the appraiser to walk through.  Other items that will help:

A list of major improvements made to the home since purchased, or up to the prior 15 years. Include estimated cost of the improvements if available.  This would be major improvements which should impact the market value, such as kitchen updates, flooring, new roof, etc..

  • HOA fees if any.
  • If there is an HOA please note what amenities are included.
  • If the property is a condo, please indicate parking (owned, assigned, what type?).

Printing the aforementioned out for the appraiser is helpful but not necessary.  The appraiser can go over the information with you verbally at the time of the walk through.

What happens during an appraisal?

If an inspection of the subject is necessary we will schedule a time with you.   In most cases we measure the dwelling, basement, garage, etc., and record important facts about the home, including (but not limited to) views, room counts, amenities, condition, finishes, upgrades and/or remodeling, any needed repairs, etc..  Typically this process takes 30 to 45 minutes.  Larger homes can take longer.

This is not the same as a “home inspection”, as the appraiser is not qualified to uncover hidden defects (for example sewer line issues, etc.).  The appraiser does record obvious and apparent items of importance.

The inspection of the property is the simplest portion of the appraisal process.  Most work is performed at the office, obtaining and confirming data, performing analyses, completing a reconciliation of the data, and producing the necessary report.

How long does it take to finish the appraisal?

This depends on the complexity of the property.  But most of our reports are completed within two business days of the walk-through.   Setting up the inspection itself depends greatly on current workload and the owner’s availability.   With the current refinance boom we are averaging 7 to 10 business days altogether.