Some Hints for Swifter Turn Times

The appraisal profession is evolving continuously. Regularly, it seems, appraisers are asked to include additional information or have steps added to their data gathering. All of this is to ensure their client is presented with the best information to be had. To stay current with the constantly changing requirements, Phoenix Valuations, LLC is constantly testing new tools and tweaking processes in order to increase efficiency so we can do more work for our clients. At Phoenix Valuations, LLC we know that time is important to everybody, so here are some things you can do to lower turn times each time you order an appraisal with Phoenix Valuations, LLC.

Always order your appraisals on the Internet.: With online ordering, you automatically get e-mail acknowledgements that the order was received, and fast, secure .PDF format report delivery. This tip alone will save the most time! We don't have to manually enter information from a fax, and you don't have to wonder whether we got the order.
Are you providing complete and accurate data about the subject property?: Having just one number incorrect on the street address can really unnecessarily slow down an appraisal assignment. Unique identifiers like a tax parcel number, plat map number, or subdivision name is helpful information to include with the request. We even welcome lists of recent sales from the area — remember, however, that professional appraisers are lawfully required to do their own due diligence on comparable sales, and ours may be different from yours.
Let us know up front of the property's unique elements.: It's relatively easy to appraise a cookie-cutter house. What takes time is analyzing how details unique to a property contribute to or detract from what otherwise would be a property's market value. At the time you order your report, be sure to let us know if there are unique details of the home or surrounding area -- for example, it's recently had an addition constructed, it's subject to zoning restrictions, it's susceptible to flooding. These are things we'd find out on our own anyway, and knowing them sooner makes your report arrive earlier.
Set proper expectations with the occupants.: Confirming an inspection time and date with the homeowner can be one of the most time consuming tasks in the appraisal process. Some homeowners are justifiably apprehensive with the notion an unknown persons wants to come in their home, look around, and take numerous notes. Some think they should make the place spotless before the inspection, having the thought that will increase the value. And will put off the appraisal inspection until it is cleaned.

Coming from you -- the person they've been working with on their loan -- some info about the appraisal process, who we are, and especially that dusting and polishing won't make it more likely their sale will close, and can decrease the appraisal inspection time. Our website has numerous pages of helpful information about the appraisal process for homeowners. I encourage you to share it with your clients. They can even call us if they want to familiarize themselves with our staff and services. Remind them it's in their interest to set the appointment promptly!
Easily verify the status of your report on our website.: Phone and fax tag are a thing of the past with up-to-the-minute status updates available online, anytime, 24/7. As we complete each important milestone in an assignment, that information can be viewed instantly online. There's no faster way to keep track of your report's status.