December 12, 2014
A reader asks, “A buyer for my property secured an FHA approval and had a FHA appraisal performed. The appraisal was well below the contract price, so much so that it was below the County’s tax assessed value. Better comps and explanations were provided for the market area, but the appraiser would not amend the appraisal.”
“The buyer went to another lender to but was told the previous FHA appraisal was valid for 6 months and a new appraisal could not be requested. Is this true, even if the circumstances were clearly presented?”
In some limited cases an FHA appraisal may be appealed, but this would be handled on a case-by-case basis and would be at the FHA’s discretion.
FHA loan rules do not permit borrowers to appeal an appraisal simply because they disagree with the appraisal’s findings. We’re not suggesting that is the case with this reader question, but it is important to point out as FHA loan rules are clear on that point.
In cases where an appraisal appeal IS considered, the borrower is required to submit documentation and supporting evidence to back his or her claim. In the case of this reader question, documentation of the “better comps” would be required as well as other supporting information. The FHA would have the deciding authority in such matters and any decision they render would be final.
Again, not all appraisals may be appealed, and you may need to cooperation of the lender to proceed depending on circumstances. Borrowers who need additional guidance in these matters should contact the FHA directly at 1-800 CALL FHA for assistance.
Do you have questions about FHA loans? Ask us in the comments section. All questions/comments are held for review.
Joe Wallace has been specializing in military and personal finance topics since 1995. His work has appeared on Air Force Television News, The Pentagon Channel, ABC and a variety of print and online publications. He is a 13-year Air Force veteran and a member of the Air Force Public Affairs Alumni Association. He was Managing editor for www.valoans.com for (8) years and is currently the Associate Editor for FHANewsblog.com.
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