Appraisal Associates of Beaufort's appraisal to-do list


	Legally, an appraiser must be state licensed to perform appraisals prepared for federally related transactions. Just give us a call at (843) 683-2114 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 available).
Records on the latest purchase of the property in the last three years.
Information on any written private easements, such as a shared driveway with a neighbor.
List of personal property to be sold with the building.
Any documents, 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.
Brag sheet that lists major home improvements and enhancements, 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).
Find copies of the current listing agreement, broker's data sheet and, if the sale is "pending", the purchase agreement.
Any "Homeowners Associations" agreements or, if applicable, condo agreements or fees.
A list of "proposed" improvements when the property is being appraised "as complete".

Once your appraiser has arrived, you do not need to escort him or her along on the entire site inspection, but you should be available to answer inquiries about your property and identify any home improvements.

Here are some other helpful recommendations:

Accessibility: Appraisers are very thorough in their inspections. Make sure that all areas of the home are accessible, especially the attic and crawl space.
Housekeeping: Appraisers see a lot of homes a year and are no strangers to clutter, but they're human beings too! A good impression can translate into a higher home value.
Maintenance: We generally suggest fixing small 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 additional things that should be done before they come. Some items they may recommend might be: installing a banister on all stairways, ensuring there are electrical receptacles in every room and that each receptacle functions, eliminating pull-chain lights in areas other than the basement or attic.