Some great hints to expedite your appraisal from Darrow Appraisal Services

To appraise a property, an appraiser needs to be licensed by the state when it's a federally related transaction. Contact us if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To speed up the appraisal process, have documents not readily available to the public ready for the appraiser:

  • Prepare any necessary documents for the appraiser such as home 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 upgrades, the date of their installation and their cost (for example, the addition of central air conditioning or roof repairs) and permit confirmation (if available).

  • Information on "Homeowners Associations" or condominium covenants and fees.

  • A list of "proposed" improvements if the property is to be appraised "as complete".

  • Current listing agreements, and broker data sheets are available to the appraiser who is a member of NEREN your local MLS.

Once I arrive expect the appraiser to start photographing each room and confirming measurements using a digital measuring devise;  creating a digital sketch of all rooms using an appraisal app which works with the appraiser's software. It's not necessary for you to accompany the appraiser along the entire site inspection, but you should be available to answer inquiries about your property and identify any home improvements.

Here suggestions to save time and money for future follow inspections:

  • Turn the lights on in each room and open all  curtains / shades just before the appraiser arrives for good lighting.  

  • FHA requires the appraiser to perform a minimum head and shoulders inspection of your attic and crawl spaces. Whether this access might be found through a small scuttle in the closet or hallway ceiling, having this access ready and open helps move the appraisal inspection along. Appraisers typically have room for a small step stool in their vehicle; please provided a ladder if needed.
  • Housekeeping: A good impact can mean a higher value for your home.

  • Maintenance: Repair minor things like leaky faucets; make sure to follow the universal rule hot water on the left and cold running water on the right, cover all electric sockets including the homes electric panel. In addition, FHA requires handrails on any and all stairs. VA requires handrails on stairs with four or more risers. Unsure consult the New Hampshire State Building Codes. 

  • 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: confirm the home has working smoke detectors on every floor of the home,  especially near bedrooms, check the batteries, removing and touching up where there's paint peeling, repair / replace broken window glass.