Virginia Mortgage News and Views

VA Appraisers

99.5% of the time, I have no issues with the appraisers who currently are allowed and sanctioned by the VA to do residential appraisals. Historically, they get a bad rap for a number of reasons.... but, for the most part I am totally satisfied with them and their performance.

Recently, I had a very bad experience with a VA appraiser who demonstrated a basic level of disrespect.

The story goes like this.

When a VA appraisal is ordered through the proper procedures, then the assigned appraiser has service level agreement with the VA. This agreement is pretty simple. They must turn in the appraisal within 14 days of assignment. Sounds pretty simple.

What happens when this does not occur on time? The entire process of approving loans and closing on time is jeopardized. The very nature of a VA loan is the fact that all parties involved are working for and to the benefit of our Veterans and Active Duty personnel. The timing is critical to deliver the loan approval and be ready to close as agreed upon by all parties.

When there is a weak link in the chain of approval, such as the appraiser not turning the report on time, then it creates a huge level of anxiety on everyone's part. The fact of the matter is simply one of disrespect.

It's not about the lender, the seller, the real estate agent's involved in the transaction. It's about the Veteran or the Active Duty personnel who is depending on delivery of the loan as agreed to.

The proper procedures have been followed with the VA to report this particular appraiser as to his performance or lack there of.  Maybe, just maybe, he will have more respect for his role, and realize the trickle down effect of his actions.