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Don't Worry That I Am From Pennsylvania

By
Real Estate Agent with Better Homes & Gardens Premier VA 0225101026

That is what the appraiser told me when she arrived at my listing in FALLS CHURCH VIRGINIA.  After all, she advised me, she lived "here" "just before" she moved to PA.  Well, "here" was Loudoun County - a rural suburb of Falls Church - and "just before" was YEARS ago.  You will not be surprised to hear that the appraisal came in low.

When will this craziness stop?  I could get a license to sell real estate anywhere in the USA.  Heck, I could even become licensed in Utah  but I never would because I DON'T KNOW THE UTAH real estate market!  But this is what happens on a continuous basis with appraisers.  WHY, oh WHY, cant we require an appraiser from the same city (or at least the same state!) appraise the value for properties in the areas they live & breath?  There are nuances in this market that make an impact on value and can not be found simply looking at photos on line.

I could go on and on with this blog post, but instead I think I'll write my congressman.  If your transactions have every been impacted by an off-beat appraiser, you should too!  Maybe we can make a difference?

Sheila Anderson
Referral Group Incorporated - East Brunswick, NJ
The Real Estate Whisperer Who Listens 732-715-1133

Good morning Heather. I really like this and it did make me laugh but there was nothing funny about your point. I have had buyers who, no matter how advised, choose to deal with an online mortgage company. Not only were the appraisers brought in from elsewhere, but guess who paid that cost. Good post. Suggested.

Oct 13, 2011 03:59 AM
Coral Gundlach
Compass - Arlington, VA
Real Lives. Not Just Real Estate.

There is no excuse for that.  I am currently work with TWO out of state lenders, both managed to find local appraisers.    

Oct 13, 2011 08:04 AM
Heather Embrey
Better Homes & Gardens Premier - Falls Church, VA
Ask me about real estate! I know stuff:)

Just found this on the VA website:

The Appraisal System (TAS):  The VA Appraisal System (TAS) is a centralized, internet-based appraiser assignment system designed to increase the efficiency of ordering, receiving and reviewing appraisals and issuing VA notices of value (NOV) to the veteran.  The Appraisal System offers many benefits over previous VBA systems including, ease of use, speed, and accessibility.  TAS is accessed through the Veterans Information Portal (VIP).  A user ID and password are required to access this system. 

 

Oddly enough they do not claim accuracy in their system design. 

Oct 13, 2011 08:25 AM