Readers Respond

Black Plaintiffs Who Alleged Discrimination

I’d like to see the second appraisal. Based on the information provided (two sales on Northern in the $465500k range) it seems like the original appraisal was pretty accurate. So what comps did the second appraiser use? What were his adjustments? I had a complaint filed against me. The individual had a copy of an appraisal of his neighbor’s house that was significantly higher than my appraisal. They never provided that appraisal to me, just the comps in the other report. The comps were ALL model houses (some selling furnished), some with extensive updating, some with pools, spas, BBQs, etc. My subject had standard builder upgrades and a dirt backyard. I had done four other appraisals over the past 18 months in the community and my appraisal was in-line with those appraisals and the appreciation rate in the community. Needless to say, the complaint went nowhere. But it is certainly distressing to be accused of something you didn’t do. Good luck to Mr. Lanham. — Rob

Surviving the Slowdown

Your article was well done, however what about the trainees? With this slowdown how does a trainee find supervisors when there is no work? I personally have been told by 12 local appraisers that I have to wait until the market turns around to finish my hours.

Jannine Allen

Does anyone have any statistics or at least a good estimate of the percentage of appraisals that are done each year for non-lender work? I keep hearing veteran appraisers say they’re staying busy with non-lender appraisals, but

I’m skeptical that most appraisers can suddenly start picking up regular work for divorce and estates. —Austin

Killed by Carbon Monoxide: Appraiser Blamed

Franke

I agree with “Maya,” in the Working RE magazine, Winter/Spring 2023. I too, was disturbed when an appraiser was found to be at fault when a person was killed by Carbon Monoxide poisoning due to a malfunctioning CO detector. It is the responsibility of the homeowners/sellers to maintain their smoke detectors/CO detectors, not appraisers or any other people who visit the homes. What are we to do, move into the homes we appraise and maintain a 24/7 vigil on the detectors? No! Once we leave the premises, the responsibility is out of our hands. PERIOD! Thank you. —Owen WRE