Some useful hints to expedite your appraisal from Dante Negroni Appraisals, Inc.

By law, an appraiser must be licensed by the state to perform appraisals prepared for federally related transactions - i.e. transactions related to Freddie Mac, Office of Thrift Supervision and the like. Just give us a call at 215-694-9166 if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To make your appraisal process go as smoothly as possible we generally recommend to have these documents, if available, ready for the appraiser:

  • A plot plan or survey of the house and land (if available).

  • Any information on the purchase of the property for the last three years.

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

  • A list of any personal property that is part of the home and you intend to be sold with the home, such as an oven, or a washer and dryer.

  • Any paperwork, 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.

  • Any inspection reports, or other recent reports for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, septic systems and wells.

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

  • A copy of the current listing agreement with broker's data sheet and purchase agreement if a sale is "pending".

  • Any "Homeowners Associations" agreements or, if applicable, condo covenants or fees.

  • A list of "suggested" improvements when the property is being appraised "as complete".

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

Here are a few other helpful tips:

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

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

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

  • FHA and VA Inspection Items: In the case of your borrower trying to apply for either an FHA or VA loan, be sure to ask your appraiser if there are specific things that should be done before they come. Some things they may recommend might be: installing a banister on all stairways, ensuring there are electrical receptacles in every room (note: GFI outlets are no longer required) and that each outlet works, eliminating pull-chain lights in areas other than the basement or attic.