Ordered by your lender after you go under contract, the appraisal is an independent valuation used to confirm the home is worth what you've agreed to pay. The appraiser evaluates the property against three to six comparable recent sales — adjusting for condition, square footage, lot, and finishes — and issues a written opinion of value.
The appraised value governs the loan-to-value ratio. If it meets or exceeds price, financing proceeds cleanly. If it comes in low, we deploy one of four levers, pre-planned before the appraisal ever arrives.
Meets or Exceeds
Financing continues as planned; no further action required.
Comes In Low
Request a seller reduction, split the difference, cover the gap in cash, or exit with earnest money returned.
You Cannot Influence It
The lender selects the appraiser from an independent rotational panel — by federal law.
- Meets or Exceeds
Financing continues as planned; no further action required.
- Comes In Low
Request a seller reduction, split the difference, cover the gap in cash, or exit with earnest money returned.
- You Cannot Influence It
The lender selects the appraiser from an independent rotational panel — by federal law.