What Not to Say to an Appraiser

When interacting with a property appraiser, certain statements can undermine the appraisal process or be perceived as attempts to influence the outcome. Here are the key things you should avoid saying:

Statements About Property Value

Avoid asking the appraiser to reach a desired number. A preferred price is not market evidence; provide specific property facts and supporting records instead.

“Do your best to get the value as high as possible” asks for a preferred outcome rather than an evidence-based assessment.

Comparisons and External Influences

When offering a higher nearby sale, explain why it seems comparable. Location, condition, upgrades and other features matter as well as price.

A neighbor’s earlier appraisal may reflect a different property, scope or date. It does not automatically establish the current value of your home.

“Use these sales, they are the best comps for this house” – While providing comparable sales information can be helpful, directing the appraiser to use only specific (typically higher-priced) sales can be seen as trying to influence the outcome.

Process Interference

Do not ask the appraiser to omit damage from photographs or descriptions. Provide repair records or other factual context instead.

“Can you leave out the recent foreclosures and short sales?” – Requesting exclusion of certain types of sales can be perceived as directing the appraisal value in a specific direction. Appraisers will determine if these sales accurately reflect current market behavior.

Ask who will receive the report and how value questions should be submitted. For a lender-arranged assignment, use the lender’s communication process.

False Information

Providing fabricated property details – Never provide false information to sway the appraisal outcome, such as fraudulent documents about land type or misrepresenting fixture values. If discovered, this affects your credibility and can impact loan negotiations.

What You Should Do Instead

Focus your conversations on factual information about the home, neighborhood, and relevant details the appraiser should know. Point out recent improvements or unique features without trying to influence the final value. Let the appraiser conduct their objective assessment without external pressure, as they aim to provide an unbiased opinion based on objective criteria.