Truths no one wants to hear. · Real Estate Value Edge

Truths no one wants to hear.

🎯 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.

📣 Coming Soon:

In February our training module will unpack this topic — clarifying when and how Realtors can provide meaningful property context while keeping the appraiser‑client boundary intact.

This content will also appear in upcoming live seminars, with dates, times, and supporting partners to be announced soon. Keep watching for details!

🧰 Realtor's Survival Kit coming in February. ⚖

💫 The Art of Appraisal stands for clarity, integrity, and connection — bridging the gap between data, duty, and understanding so everyone in the transaction moves forward with confidence.

#TheArtOfAppraisal #shawnfoppeappraisal #Realtor #valuations #USPAP #RealEstateEthics #AppraisalStandards

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