In our last blog we explained why you need to keep work files for each appraisal you do. Now it is important to figure out exactly what needs to be put in them to help you pull out how you got to the final appraisal number for that specific appraisal. 

Remember these files will not only help you on the off chance you have a claim filed but having notes and information at the ready can also help with repeat appraisals, appraisals in the same area or if you had an appraisal that took more work due to unusual circumstances you will have information to fall back on. 

• The engagement letter

• Notes about any communication given to the borrower or the AMC for the appraisal (having emails available online or printed out is ok)

• Notes about the inspection - they should be clear, informative about the state of the home as you saw it the day of inspection and if you have pictures available that is a good addition to the file

• Comps - even if they were dismissed by you. If they were not used it is good practice to have a reason they weren’t used. 

• Records from MLS or local information that is pulled. This would include any information you may have taken from other websites. If it is not a typical website you would use daily it may be a good idea to print it out or Pdf. it. 

• Notes of double checking information along the way

• Dates on everything! 

• A note of where to find the full appraisal or a print out of it

While you may never have a need to go back for a lawsuit against you, having the information handy and easily accessible is going to give you peace of mind and the ability to give a proper and full picture of how you made your final decision. It is better to be prepared and never need it than to need it and not be prepared.