Keep communication with the appraiser factual and professional. The following points help separate useful information from pressure for a particular result.
Avoid asking for a target value with statements such as “I’ll be happy as long as it appraises for at least the sales price.” Share property evidence instead of asking the appraiser to reach a number.Refrain from pressuring the appraiser or asking them to “help” with the value.You can provide factual information about relevant sales. Explain why they seem comparable without insisting that only the highest-priced examples be used.Never ask the appraiser to ignore or omit property issues. For example, saying “Can you not take a picture of that hole in the wall?” or “Can you leave out the recent foreclosures and short sales?” is unethical and could be considered an attempt to mislead the lender.Don’t hide major property defects or issues.Avoid following the appraiser around or interrupting their process. Constantly shadowing the appraiser or peppering them with questions can be distracting and hinder their ability to do their job thoroughly.Ask who will receive the report and how questions should be submitted. For a loan assignment, use the lender’s designated process.Best practice: Keep your communication factual and professional. Share information about upgrades, renovations, or unique features if asked, and provide documentation when appropriate. Stay neutral and let the appraiser do their job without interference or attempts to sway the outcome.