Comp Search Policy

Genuine Appraisals would like to assure you that as a regular part of our appraisal services, when you place an appraisal order, we research data on the subject property BEFORE we go out to see the subject. If there are obvious issues, you will be contacted.

If there are no obvious issues, we will inspect the property. If the appraisal is cancelled for ANY reason after the inspection but before the report has been completed, 50% of the full appraisal fee will be due.
We prefer that instead of asking for a “Comp Search” that you use the free services below to check the value and simply send us the order:

"CAN YOU CHECK COMPS FOR ME? I WANT TO KNOW IF I SHOULD ORDER AN APPRAISAL."
That's a common question that is asked of appraisers every day. Mortgage Brokers and borrowers don't want to waste their time and money on loans that won't "Appraise Out". Comp Searches (pre-appraisal market value opinions) may also seem like good "Customer Service".

That may appear to be true on the front-end, but those "searches" back-up appraisal production on the back-end (causing delays in appraisal delivery) and it's expected that the appraiser will not be compensated for THEIR time! Very few "Comp Searches" result in orders, as many times, these requests are from Loan Officers just searching for the highest value for a property. Did you know that  providing an "estimate" of a home's value prior to receiving the appraisal order MAY put the appraiser in violation of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and their state laws?

"BUT ALL OF MY OTHER APPRAISERS DO IT!"
Yes, every profession has inexperienced or unethical members that are willing to do just about anything for a buck. Our Licensing Agency and professional organizations are doing what they can to crack down on illegal and unethical appraisal practices.

Here are some links to FREE services that will help you check the value of your property prior to placing your order: