Some useful tips to expedite your appraisal from John A Dunlap, LLC.

	Did you know you, as a borrower, are entitled to receive a copy of the final appraisal report from the lender? Just give us a call at 7575364355 if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To speed up the appraisal process, it's recommended to have these documents ready for the appraiser:

• A survey or plot map of the property and building (if readily available).

• Records on the latest purchase of the property in the last three years.

• Written property agreements, such as a maintenance agreement for a shared driveway.

• A list of any personal property that is part of the home and you intend to be sold with the home, such as an oven, or a washer and dryer.

• Title policy that describes encroachments or easements.

• A bill for your most recent real estate taxes which should also contain a legal description of the property.

• Any inspection reports, or other recent reports for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, septic systems and your well.

• Brag sheet that lists major home improvements and enhancements, the date of their installation and their cost (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.

• Information on "Homeowners Associations" or condominium covenants and fees.

• A list of "suggested" improvements when the property is being appraised "as complete".

When the appraiser has arrived, you do not need to escort him or her along on the entire site inspection, but is usually helpful be available to answer inquiries about your property and be willing to point out any home improvements.

Here are a few other helpful suggestions:

• Accessibility: Appraisers are very detailed 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 impact can mean a better value for your home.

• Maintenance: We often suggest repairing minor 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 arrive. Some things they may recommend might be: having smoke detectors on all levels and especially near bedrooms, ensuring there are electrical receptacles in every room (note: GFI outlets are no longer required) and that each outlet works, eliminating pull-chain lights in areas other than the basement or attic.