We will reach out to schedule your inspection within 24-48 hours of accepting the order. Your inspection will take place at a time that is both convenient to you and fits into our schedule. Typically this will be within the timeframe of one to two weeks, depending upon the market.
You will receive an email confirmation of the inspection date and time block as well as a list of questions you can answer ahead of time.
We will complete a quick walk through; take a photo of every room - including bedrooms, bathrooms, and basement. We will be taking note of such items as the types of materials used during construction and their condition. We will also sketch a floorplan of your room layout and confirm measurements against public records. Smoke / CO2 Detector, Electrical Boxes, Furnace, Hot Water Heater and Oil Tanks will need to be photographed as well.
Once the interior inspection is complete, your appraiser will walk the outside perimeter of your home, taking photos from different angles along with any exterior amenities and your street from both views. Many appraisers have smart phone apps that can take measurements without physically running a tape! Technology advancements are astounding!
After your inspection is completed, the appraiser analyzes the market; researches, collects data, and collects comparable properties - ideally similar in location, design, size and condition. Often search parameters are expanded due to limited market activity of homes with similar style and appeal. The report is typed on a UAD form, required by the secondary mortgage market (Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac). All of our reports undergo a rigorous review process before submission to the client.
Appraisers will take into consideration all the extras that your home offers, such as central air conditioning, fireplaces, energy efficiency, smart home features Other amenities such as an in-ground swimming pools and garage also have an affect on the appraiser's opinion of value. Keep in mind that your lending institution is our client. We can only communicate about the value to our client. Any questions or concerns about the appraisal must be communicated through our client, your lender.
While inspecting the interior of your home, the appraiser will pay attention to upgrades that you have made to your kitchen and bathrooms especially. Because the appraiser might not notice all the upgrades that you’ve made, it is important to provide him or her with a list of all the improvements before the appraisal starts.