Search Parameters and Results

SAMCO's appraisal requirements are fairly simple and straightforward. Our appraisal audits are completed by experienced appraisal professionals who understand that many real estate assignments are atypical and nonconforming with respect to Appraisal Standards and Fannie/Freddie approved forms.

SAMCO realizes this can be challenging. Providing an explanation of the situation, the line of reasoning, and the extent of the search parameters enable the appraiser to pass SAMCO's audit process, as well as the client's underwriting requirements. Explaining your search parameters and specifying the comparables discovered in that search is one of the best methods to respond to an unusual subject or a lack of comparables similar to the subject. This approach should accompany EVERY appraisal when the comparables are not similar to the subject or Appraisal Standards are not met. A general phrase stating you have "researched the area and these were the best comparables available" will never be acceptable.

Examine your sales comparison grid and search parameter explanation, not through the perspective of an appraiser that is intimately familiar with the area, but as an underwriter miles away lacking knowledge about your local market. Describing your search parameters and listing all sales will prevent the underwriter from speculating if there are additional comparables that could be utilized. A comparable located 30 miles from the subject wouldn't initially have been acceptable by the client’s underwriting, but detailed reasoning explains why using your comparable choice was necessary.

The following example format is strongly encouraged to be utilized. The reason is simple. It’s easy to read and understand. If the appraiser writes a narrative explanation in paragraph form it is easy for the reader of the report to become confused, and it’s easy for the appraiser to make a mistake or leave out an important detail.

Only handling an appraisal once is SAMCO's goal, and it should be yours as well. Describing your Search Parameters and listing the comparables found (Results) is the best way to have you reach that goal.