What Not To Tell A Home Appraiser?

When interacting with a home appraiser, certain statements can be problematic and should be avoided to maintain the integrity of the appraisal process and prevent any appearance of attempting to influence the appraiser’s professional judgment.

Value-Related Comments to Avoid

Do not pressure the appraiser to reach a target value. Statements such as “I’ll be happy as long as it appraises for at least the sales price” can substitute a desired result for property evidence.

You may provide relevant sales or property records for consideration. Explain their relevance without insisting on a particular conclusion.

Directing the Appraisal Process

Never attempt to control how the appraiser conducts their work. Avoid saying “Use these sales, they are the best comps for this house” when providing comparable properties, as this appears to be directing the appraiser toward specific data points. Don’t ask them to exclude certain information by saying things like “Can you leave out the recent foreclosures and short sales?” as this could be seen as trying to manipulate the outcome.

Similarly, never ask an appraiser to hide physical issues with statements like “Can you not take a picture of that hole in the wall?” This type of request could be viewed as attempting to conceal important information from the lender.

Confidentiality Violations

Confirm who will receive the report and how questions should be submitted. Use the lender’s designated process for a loan appraisal.

What You Should Do Instead

Focus your conversation on factual information about the home, neighborhood, and any relevant details the appraiser should know. If asked direct questions by the appraiser, provide truthful answers rather than trying to hide problems.

Provide a list of improvements and upgrades with available documentation. Give the appraiser space to work and remain available for factual questions.