Infinite Appraisal Services, LLC's appraisal to-do list

Did you know you, as a borrower, are entitled to receive a copy of the completed appraisal report from the lender? Contact us if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To simplify 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).

  • Information on the latest purchase of the property in the last three years.

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

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

  • Title policy that lists 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 date of their installation and their cost (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 "proposed" improvements if the property is to be appraised "as complete".

Once your appraiser has arrived, you do not need to escort him or her along on the entire site inspection, but is usually helpful be present to answer questions about your property and be willing to point out any home improvements.

Here are a few other helpful suggestions:

  • Accessibility: Appraisers are very detailed 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 aren't surprised at seeing a bit of clutter, but they're human beings too! A good impact can mean a better home value.

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

  • FHA and VA Inspection Items: In the case of your borrower applying 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: installing smoke detectors on every floor of the home and especially near bedrooms, where paint is peeling it should be removed and repainted, eliminating pull-chain lights in areas other than the basement or attic.