Preparing for an appraisal from Tarter Realty, Auction, & Appraisal Company


	To appraise a property, an appraiser is required to be licensed by the state when it's a federally related transaction. Just give us a call at (765) 595-8155 if you have any questions about the appraisal process.

To facilitate 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).
Any information on the purchase of the property for the last three years.
Information on any written private agreements, such as a shared driveway with a neighbor.
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.
Any documents, such as a title policy with information on encroachments or easements encroachments or easements.
Most recent real estate tax bill and or legal description of the property.
Home 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 upgrades, the amount of their purchase and date of their installation (for example, the addition of central air conditioning or roof repairs) and permit confirmation (if available).
A copy of the current listing agreement with broker's data sheet and purchase agreement if a sale is "pending".
Information on "Homeowners Associations" or condominium covenants and fees.
A list of "proposed" improvements when the property is being appraised "as complete".

Once your appraiser has arrived, you do not need to accompany him or her along on the entire site inspection, but is usually helpful be available to answer questions about your property and identify any home improvements.

Here are some other helpful recommendations:

Accessibility: Appraisers are very meticulous in their inspections. You should make sure that all areas of the home are accessible, especially the attic and crawl space.
Housekeeping: Appraisers see many of homes a year and aren't surprised at seeing a bit of clutter, but they're human beings too! A good impact can mean a higher home value.
Maintenance: We generally suggest fixing minor things like leaky faucets, missing door handles and trim.
FHA and VA Inspection Items: If your borrower is applying for either an FHA or VA loan, be sure to ask your appraiser if there are additional things that should be done before they come. Some things they may recommend might be: having smoke detectors on every floor of the home and especially near bedrooms, ensuring there are electrical receptacles in every room (note: GFI outlets are no longer required) and that each receptacle functions, fixing leaky or dripping faucets, replacing broken glass.