Clarity before listing saves deals later. Estate and private appraisals reveal more than numbers—they uncover the story behind market value. By connecting with an appraiser who provides both “as‑is” and “as‑repaired” insights, your sellers walk into your listing consultation informed and confident. That means cleaner negotiations and smoother transactions. Partner with professionals who prep clients for you—not after you.

The appraiser must have substantial data to provide a credible and reliable opinion of value. How do we appraise houses that are not even built yet? See attached file. When doing ARV values for renovation projects, the needed information is very similar; see future post.

🎯 Quick Appraisal Truth for Agents + Homebuyers When a lender engages an appraiser, that lender is the only client — not the agent, not the buyer, not the seller. That means the appraiser cannot share any part of the appraisal’s content — including value opinions, repair notes, or analysis — with anyone other than the authorized client (the lender). 👉 However… Realtors can still provide valuable information within context! Sharing relevant property data, repair documentation, sales that they found to support their listing price, or access details helps create a factual foundation — without crossing the confidentiality line. 🗝️ And a quick reminder: Please ensure all keys for all structures (garage, sheds, outbuildings, and additional units) are available at the time of the scheduled appraisal. Missing keys often lead to repeat visits — and yes, that can mean delays and additional fees. So when agents ask, “What repairs might be needed?”, the appraiser isn’t being evasive — they’re simply upholding federal law and USPAP regulations designed to keep the process professional, consistent, and secure. 🔒 👩‍⚖️ Legal & Professional References USPAP 2024 Edition Ethics Rule – Confidentiality Section (p. 7): “An appraiser must protect the confidential nature of the appraiser‑client relationship.” Definitions (p. 3): “Client: the party (or parties) who engage an appraiser in a specific assignment.” Record Keeping Rule (p. 11): “An appraiser must not disclose confidential information to anyone other than the client, parties authorized by the client, or as required by due process of law.” Equal Credit Opportunity Act (15 U.S.C. § 1691) – Establishes that the lender is the legal recipient of the appraisal report. Fannie Mae Selling Guide B4‑1.2‑01 (2025 Update) – “The appraisal report is delivered by the appraiser to the lender‑client; the borrower or agent should not contact the appraiser for status or results information.” Contact the loan processor/officer. The lender has appropriate channels to converstate with the appraiser. 99.9% of the time this is done in writing for a reason.

50 counties are undermined in Illinois. The attached are from the Illinois Mine Fund.