It’s no secret that a professional appraisal is key to getting a clear understanding of the home purchase. It’s an important part of ensuring that buyers pay a fair price for their new home, and buyers who utilize the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Home Loan Guaranty Program are no exception.
Realtors® took to Capitol Hill today to champion the good work happening at the VA, but also to warn Members of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs of the challenges facing appraisers who serve the Home Loan Guaranty Program.
Michelle Bradley, Immediate Past Chair of the National Association of Realtors® Real Property Valuation Committee, testified before the HVAC’s Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity to offer her expertise as a state-certified general real property appraiser. She told Members of the Committee that despite the good work happening within the program, regulatory burdens remain that need attention.
“America’s veterans have been well-served for years by VA’s appraisal system, and professionals in the business should be proud of their good work,” Bradley said. “Unfortunately, that system is under tremendous pressure today.”
For over 70 years, the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program has served veterans and active duty service members with zero-down payment options and by encouraging private lenders to offer favorable terms on home loans.
Veterans made up 18 percent of homebuyers in a recent NAR survey, with over half of those buyers turning to a VA loan to finance their home purchase. That means getting the program right is important, but Bradley pointed out a number of impediments to continuing the current level of service.
“What we’ve found is that, among appraisers, there’s a real reluctance to work with the VA,” Bradley said. “Generally, appraisers are dissatisfied with the level of compensation they’re receiving for their work. It’s also harder than ever for trainees to enter the field, not just within the VA system but across the industry, which only adds to the perception of an appraiser shortage. This overall regulatory burden is a significant issue, and we have to turn things around.”
Despite these challenges, Bradley sounded optimistic as she faced the Committee.
“What we have today isn’t perfect, but it’s an important part of ensuring veterans and active-service members are protected when using a VA home loan,” Bradley said. “NAR looks forward to working with the VA and Members of Congress to improve this system in the years to come.”
For more on the subject, NAR recently released fresh survey data from over 2,000 appraisers within the industry. That’s available online here: http://narnewsline.blogs.realtor.org/2017/03/16/appraiser-survey-shows-challenges-remain-for-practitioners/
If you’re a veteran considering purchasing a home give me a call for more information about the VA loan program – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
What’s Your Home Worth?
Search for Your New Home
5430 E Royal Palm Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$2,950,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,733
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779945
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
One acre + North/south lot close to Paradise Valley Country Club. 3 C Schools. Survey is included and located in document tab. House is a tear down and value is in the land. Property has all utilities - Sewer has been brought to corner of property. Great views- non-hillside lot. Do not walk property without permission. Buyer to do due diligence before writing offer. Owner/agent. Carry is possible with 25% down, 10% interest.
9027 N 82nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$2,950,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,364
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781793
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MUST SEE!!! McCormick Ranch culdesac home on oversized lot (one of the largest in entire neighborhood) that has been completely reimagined & remodeled with a modern floor plan. The single level home offers a 888 sq ft guest home with full kitchen, laundry, & 10 foot ceilings. The main home offers luxury, convenience, & designer touches. Large chefs kitchen with Thermador appliances, including bonus butlers pantry & butlers fridge, water filtration & water bottle filler, built in espresso maker, & oversized quartz waterfall island. Super sized utility room with double washer/dryer & custom lockers & storage. Primary suite with oversized shower, dual shower system & large soaker tub. Open great room with floor to ceiling wood burning fireplace, surround sound & smart features throughout
6936 E 1st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$2,950,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692878
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Nestled in Arizona's most sought-after city, The NINES are a new collection of residences in Old Town Scottsdale brought to you by Two Hawks Design and Development. This custom home offers 3,000 SF of living space, 2 bed, 2.5 bath, 1 bonus room, a 2-car garage, and NO HOA FEES!!! Sleek modern architecture opens to three light-filled levels of refined interior luxury. This home offers expansive windows, a private backyard, a rooftop terrace, 2 additional outdoor patios, and bespoke details and finishes. This custom contemporary home invokes a simple refined style of living with unbeatable proximity to Scottsdale's premier lifestyle amenities. Discover fine dining, high end retail, and the Scottsdale Arts District just steps from your door.
6501 E Willow Springs Lane Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$2,950,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,400
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6703214
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning contemporary Home on 4+ acres nestled amidst picturesque mountain ranges! A nearly new Home, this property offers both luxury and serenity in an Estate Homes area with no HOA restrictions. Collectors and hobbyists will love the 56' pull-through RV GARAGE and 4 large car bays. Modern finishes, abundant natural light, and thoughtful design elements extend throughout. FURNISHINGS are available separately. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with a telescoping wall of glass in the Great room and a well-appointed kitchen with a waterfall quartz island. The Owner's suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a spa-like bathroom and private patio. Outside, a large covered patio provides shade for entertaining, while the expansive land offers endless possibilities for customization. Would you add a guest casita, pool, spa, pickleball, an arena, or a barn? Relish the peaceful small-town lifestyle while still enjoying city water and paved roads. Nearby Cave Creek offers shopping, dining, and entertainment. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to make this property your own and start living the life you've always dreamed of.
9290 E Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 113 Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,950,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,917
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743770
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Located within the premier guard-gated community of The Country Club at DC Ranch, this custom-built estate spans over 4,900 sqft of elegant, thoughtfully designed living space, offering a harmonious blend of modern sophistication and timeless charm. Upon entry, you are greeted by meticulously manicured landscaping and a grand entrance through custom iron double doors. This highly desirable, single level split floorplan seamlessly connects the expansive great room, adorned with soaring ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and views into the backyard. The chef's kitchen is equipped with stainless steel Thermador appliances including dual ovens and a 5-burner induction cooktop, a butcher block island, granite countertops, and large walk-in pantry. The luxurious primary suite features a spa-like bathroom with a soaking tub, dual vanities, a large tiled walk-in shower, and private access to the backyard. Additional amenities include pre-wired surround sound throughout the home, a den which could serve as a home theater, 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms on the East side of the home, as well as a detached casita. The south facing backyard serves as your own private oasis, where a resort-style pool and spa are surrounded by lush landscaping and serene mountain and golf course views. The outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and expansive covered patio create an ideal setting for alfresco dining and entertaining year-round. With its prime location within the DC Ranch neighborhood, this residence offers a lifestyle of upscale amenities and convenience. The community offers 33 miles of manicured paths and trails, 47 community pocket parks, 2 community centers, and is located adjacent to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and just 5 minutes north of the 101 Freeway in North Scottsdale. The property is also conveniently located within walking distance of Market Street's retail shops and restaurants. Membership to the Country Club at DC Ranch is available by separate application, approval, and membership fee.
9125 N Lava Bluff Trail Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$2,950,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,253
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6632276
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*** SPECTACULAR VIEWS*** of Four Peaks & surrounding mountains, this STUNNING FireRock home is ideally situated looking out over 2 golf course fairways & a LAKE! The ULTIMATE in soft Contemporary living w/a GREAT Room highlighted by 14ft beamed ceilings, a 2-way Stone Fireplace & floor to ceiling windows to enjoy EXTRAORDINARY VIEWS all around! Main house is approx. 3,851sf PLUS approx. 402sf in a GUEST CASITA. This den could be a media/theater room! This Chef's kitchen boasts Quartz countertops, Custom Designed Cabinetry, & a Wolf induction Cooktop & Oven. A gorgeous spacious Primary Suite which has dual vanities, a sep. shower & tub & a customized walk-in closet. EPITOME of RESORT STYLE LIVING w/ OUTSTANDING VIEWS, pool,spa & built-in BBQ! Beautiful Porcelain 24 x 48 tile floors have now replaced the carpeted secondary bedrooms and all porcelain 24 x 48 tile floors throughout refinished 6/24. Additionally, there is an anti-crack membrane to help prevent the porcelain tile floors cracking or breaking!
3562 E Presidio Circle Mesa, AZ 85213
$2,950,000
8
Beds
7
Baths
9,419
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6772866
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this breathtaking 8 bedroom, 7 bathroom estate in the prestigious Montana Dorado neighborhood, spanning an impressive 9419 square feet. A dramatic double staircase and designer lighting greet you upon entry, setting the stage for the luxury that unfolds. To the left, a formal living room, and to the right, a dining room capable of hosting a 16-person table, showcase the home's grandeur. High-end tile guides you to an expansive family room with 22' ceilings and a striking floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace. The chef's dream kitchen features a large granite-topped center island, breakfast nook, and premium appliances including Sub-Zero and Wolf, complemented by a large butler's pantry and wine cooler. Pocket sliding glass doors open to a covered patio and a backyard oasis with a lengthy pool, slide, waterfall, swim-up bar, jacuzzi, and a step-down BBQ area, perfect for entertaining. Enjoy two glass fire pits, an in-ground trampoline, and a putting green, all with the privacy of no backyard neighbors. The home also boasts an office, workout studio with a dual head steam shower, game room with kitchenette, and two generous laundry rooms. Security is paramount with commercial steel exterior doors, hardwood 8' interior doors, and a home security system with cameras. The 4-6 car garage features EV Charging, built-in cabinets, epoxy floors, and a mini split room. An RV gate adds to the convenience. This home is a masterpiece of design and functionality, offering unparalleled luxury and comfort.
30 Navajo Trail Sedona, AZ 86351
$2,949,900
5
Beds
4
Baths
4,760
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753405
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
RED ROCK VIEWS!!! This 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom, plus Arizona Room, 1.3 acre property is located in a gated community and has been remodeled with all details in mind. Easy to navigate floor plan, vaulted ceilings with wood ceilings/beams, copper accents throughout (including sinks and tubs) and all on one level. HEATED 6 CAR GARAGE. Main house offers 4,295 sqft, Pecan Double Front Door with copper inserts, Living & Family Room each with gas hand cut stone Fireplaces, Formal & Informal Dining Room, Laundry Room in both Guest Suite and Primary Bedroom, 4 additional Bedrooms are split from Primary Bedroom, Bar with 2 Fridges & Wine Chiller and Gourmet Kitchen includes Subzero Refrigerator, Wolf Stove, Dishwasher, Island & Breakfast Bar. Garage features parking. for 4 Cars (heated) and Copper Garage Doors. Casita offers 457 sqft, Rooftop Deck with BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS,Kitchen includes Subzero Refrigerator, Wolf Stove, Dishwasher, Island & Breakfast Bar. Garage features parking for 4 Cars and Copper Garage Doors. Casita offers 457 sqft, Rooftop Deck with BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS, Kitchenette. Circular Driveway can take you secondary driveway to the back yard and Casita or to the Courtyard, both with Copper Gates. Driveway provides lots of parking options or hosting or family gatherings.
12641 E Shadow Ridge Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,944,900
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,190
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6717144
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
TO BE BUILT opportunity. Estimated completion 20 months from contract. New gated community by Camelot Homes... Featuring sweeping mountain vistas and pristine desert surroundings, Shadow Ridge is the ultimate Scottsdale sanctuary. Boasting spacious lots, this follow-up to our award-winning White Horse and Bronco communities combines bright, contemporary design with timeless indoor-outdoor appeal, all in a highly-desirable location a stones throw from Tom's Thumb trailhead. Price is not final. Additional options to be added later for final price.
39347 N Old Stage Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$2,925,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,711
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6560312
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Premier Offering, Pre-Construction. Nestled in the hillside above and just beyond Ranho Mañana, you'll find 'The Village at Go John Canyon' by Del Rey Development. A hidden gem, a secluded enclave of fine custom homes. Each estate parcel is over 4.35 acres and borders the Desert Foothills Land Trust with direct, private trail access to the Cave Creek Regional Park. Here you'll find pure paradise with over 3000 acres of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Enhanced by nature, each select residence affords unparalleled views and total privacy in a peaceful mountain paradise. Del Rey offers stylish architecture and each home is delivered complete with heated pool and landscape.
4535 W Distant View Trail Prescott, AZ 86305
$2,900,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,369
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761626
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisite Mountain Ranch Estate, perfectly positioned on 1.87 acres at the base of Granite Mountain, behind the gates of exclusive American Ranch Equestrian Community. Architecturally wrapped w/ reclaimed barn wood siding & stone exterior, this 4,369 sq. ft. estate is stunning inside & out! Main house offers 3 bed plus office, 4 bath, boasting only the finest of features w/ floor to ceiling double sided see thru stone Accucraft fireplace, arched beams w/ wood ceilings, milled live edge wood accent walls, built in custom cabinetry, custom Wyoming lighting, Kolbe windows & sliders, solid alder wood doors & trim, whole house sound system, heated tile flooring, accent tin ceilings, Nuvo water filtration, fire suppression system, hickory hardwood flooring w/ brick & stone accents See MORE. throughout. Chef's kitchen is equipped w/ oversized black walnut island, copper sink & range hood, Wolfe/Sub Zero Appliances w/ 6 burner range & griddle, pot filler, double oven, walk-in pantry w/ wine storage. Expansive primary suite w/ quaint reading niche & cozy fireplace, huge walk-in closet w/ granite counter built in dresser. Grand primary bathroom offering walk-in thru shower, copper soaking tub & sinks. 555 sq. ft. Guest House is adorned w/ the same attention to detail offering kitchen, den w/ see thru fireplace, 1 bed, 1 bath. Oversized 3 car garage w/ epoxy floors, climate control, walled in storage room & upstairs loft. Enjoy captivating mountain views from wrap around rear patio all under roof w/ wood burning fireplace, built-in BBQ, water feature, fenced yard for pets, & spa connection off primary. Community offers clubhouse, outdoor pool, tennis courts/pickleball, fitness center, cardio room, billiards room, fully stocked fishing lake & the multi-million dollar fully staffed equestrian center and more!
13859 E Coyote Way Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$2,900,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,325
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767766
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Perched high in the McDowell Mountains, this stunning transitional soft contemporary estate offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the mountains and city, with expansive panoramas visible from every room, window, and patio. Situated in the prestigious, guard-gated Eagle's Nest community of Fountain Hills, this 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom home, including an office, a detached casita and bonus room, epitomizes luxury, privacy, and serenity. Designed with an open and split floor plan, the home features soaring 12-foot ceilings, rare veined travertine flooring, premium wood flooring, and four perfectly positioned patios for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Meticulously maintained, this home showcases custom high end finishes throughout, exemplifying impeccable pride of ownership. The chef's kitchen is a culinary masterpiece complete with an oversized island, granite countertops, farmhouse sink, soft-close cabinetry, and a butler's pantry. It boasts state-of-the-art appliances, including a Bosch induction cooktop with pot filler, Bosch dishwasher, Thermador dual wall ovens, warming drawer, Thermador custom refrigerator and freezer, and a Gaggenau built-in coffee and cappuccino machine. The bright and spacious great room offers a formal dining space, breakfast nook, gas fireplace, and a standalone wet bar with a beverage fridge, wine cooler, full dishwasher, and seating for ten. The luxurious primary suite features a hidden bookshelf that leads to a private den or exercise room as well as a luxurious bathroom with dual vanities, a walk-through shower, a free standing jetted soaking tub, heated floors, and a large walk-in closet. Upstairs, you'll find a private guest suite with its own bath and walk-in closet, along with two additional guest rooms that share a Jack and Jill bathroom, both with walk-in closets. The detached casita comes complete with a full kitchen, butcher block countertops, stainless steel appliances, a bathroom with a jacuzzi tub, and a walk-in closet. The backyard is an entertainer's oasis, boasting spectacular mountain views and a heated Pebble Tec lap pool with an automatic cover, a private gated spa with bistro lights, a travertine pool deck, and an outdoor kitchen featuring a built-in BBQ, bar area, sink, and cooling misters for added comfort. A covered patio with fully automated sunscreens ensures year-round outdoor enjoyment. Eagle's Nest, a private enclave of 250 homes, offers scenic biking and walking paths, with easy access to nearby hiking trails. The winding roads take you through the natural beauty of the McDowell Mountains, providing stunning views of Four Peaks, the Superstitions, and the Goldfields.