10 Things to Remember (and practice) when Meeting with the Appraiser.

During my 18 years as a Residential Appraiser, I've met with many different Real Estate Agents; some of whom knew what they were doing, and many who didn't have a clue. I found them all making a lot of the same mistakes about how they approached me. Here are just a few recommendations.

1) Have the property ready for inspection, with all utilities on and keys to all areas.

2) If the Appraiser shows up late, don't blow your top, at least not until the report is completed.

3) Don't follow them around like a little puppy dog, if they were Felons they wouldn't be appraising.

4) Try to be nice, even if you're not a nice person, they're not there to evaluate your persona, but rudeness won't help your cause. If you feel that you have to question their ability, be witty about it.

5) Don't tell them "the buyer is going to fix that after the close of escrow," they couldn't care less.

6) Don't try to hide deferred maintenance, like covering it up with a rug, it will only make them look closer for other possible defects.

7) If you're going to provide the Appraiser with sale comps, take the time to go over them with them, not just to shove them at them. If you know what you're talking about, they'll likely appreciate it.

8) Don't quote what another Appraiser said, period. Whether it's about value or otherwise.

9) Don't promise them future business if they do you a favor. This won't likely apply now that HVCC is in effect, but Realtors and Loan Officers alike have used that one to death. I never bought it, ever.

10) Be patient. Calling them 1 or 2 days after the inspection will only push their button. Call them on the 3rd day, and be polite. As with any person you have to deal with, be professional, and polite.

If you are a consumer who is considering buying or selling a home, investment real estate, vacation homes, or beach properties in Southern California, Los Angeles, Orange County, La Habra, La Habra Heights, Whittier, Brea, Fullerton, Anaheim, Placentia, Yorba Linda, La Mirada, Buena Park, Cypress, La Mirada, Hacienda Heights, or Norwalk. Feel Free to give me a call at 714.441.1987 (USA) or email me at wynng@roadrunner.com or visit my website at http://www.SoCalRealEstateBrokers.com