How to Prepare

Real Estate Appraisal Service

Baldwin & Hufstetler Real Estate Appraiser's appraisal to-do list

Did you know you, as a borrower, are entitled to receive a copy of the final appraisal report from the lender? Just give us a call at (678) 300-9797 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 survey or plot map of the property and building (if readily available).
Any records on the purchase of the property for the last three years.
Information on any written private agreements, 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, your septic system 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).
Locate copies of the current listing agreement, broker’s data sheet and, in the event of a pending sale.
Any “Homeowners Associations” agreements or, if applicable, condo agreements or fees.
A list of “suggested” improvements when the property is being appraised “as complete”.

Once your appraiser has arrived, you do not need to escort them along on the entire site inspection, but you should be present to answer inquiries about your property and be willing to point out any home improvements.

Here are a few other helpful tips:

Accessibility: Appraisers are very meticulous in their inspections. We recommend that all areas of the home are accessible, especially the attic and crawl space.
Housekeeping: Appraisers see many of homes a year and will look past most clutter, but they’re human beings too! A good impression can translate into a better home value.

Maintenance: We generally recommend repairing small 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 specific 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 and that each receptacle works, fixing leaky or dripping faucets, replacing broken glass.

How to Prepare

Real Estate Appraisal Service

Baldwin & Hufstetler Real Estate Appraiser's appraisal to-do list

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