Hi Fernando - with prices escalating sellers are requesting that homebuyers remove the appraisal contingency. Buyers still have the insurance in the form of a loan contingency (in CA), but can't come back to the seller to renegotiate the price. With few homes for sale in our area buyers have little choice but to agree. Are you seeing this in your area? Regards Dave

Hi Fernado,

Unfortunatley it all depends on how well versed the appraiser is! Some know the area and some don't..I can send 3 appraisers out and they will all vary from SF measurement to the price!! To me what ever a willing buyer is willing to pay at a certain time in the market is the value of the house:).

It can go both ways but an appraisal is an integral part of a home purchase.  And listing agents need to make sure that the meet the appraiser and provide him/her with the facts that back up the purchase price.  That is your best insurance against an appraiser who might not be familiar with an area.