NAR Goes to Capitol Hill on Appraisals for VA Home Loan Program

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.

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4338 E Foundation Street Gilbert, AZ 85234

$600,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,195 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730209

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Morrison Ranch, where even the cows are contemplating moving in for the sheer charm of this place. With an assumable loan option, a lower interest rate is possible. Gilbert's quirkiest and most delightful enclave has just what you're looking for - and probably a few things you didn't know you needed. As you step onto Foundation St, you're greeted by a 2-car garage that says, ''Yes, I can fit two cars, and maybe even a unicycle if you're feeling adventurous.'' This stunning 4-bed, 2.5-bath palace of practicality offers a whopping 2200 sq ft of living space, ensuring you have all the room you need for activities you'll never get around to. Click on ''more'' for additional fun!! With high ceilings that practically scrape the sky, a neutral palette that's the Switzerland of color schemes, and durable tile flooring that can survive everything from toddler tantrums to your clumsiest adult moments, this home has it all. The kitchen is the heart of the home, or in this case, the granite-countered, recessed-lit, stainless steel-applianced wonderland. The pantry is so spacious it could moonlight as a hide-and-seek champion, and the island with a breakfast bar is perfect for those mornings when you just can't decide if you're a cereal or a toast person. Upstairs, you'll find a quaint loft with a built-in desk for all your home office needs, or as we like to call it, the procrastination station. The main bedroom offers new carpeting that feels like walking on a cloud and a large walk-in closet where you can store your hopes, dreams, and an impressive collection of mismatched socks. The backyard boasts a refreshing pool that's just begging for a cannonball contest. And with the house just two doors down from the neighborhood park, it's the perfect spot to unleash the kids or the dogs - or the kid that thinks they're a dog. Location-wise, you're within walking distance to Cactus Yards Sports Complex, where you can watch local heroes hit home runs or possibly just hit the ground. Commuting is a breeze with proximity to Loop 202 & US 60, making your travel time as smooth as your favorite morning coffee. Now, for the nitty-gritty: this house has appraised at list price, because of course it has! Roof & AC inspections have been performed and given a clean bill of health, so you can sleep soundly knowing your new abode isn't about to spring a surprise leak or turn into a sauna. Why just read about this gem when you could be living in it? Schedule a visit today and see why Foundation St is the foundation of your next great adventure. Don't wait - homes like this are snatched up quicker than free samples at Costco!

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22630 E Mewes Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$600,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,243 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743388

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Crimson Model with North Facing Backyard. Barely Lived in, Super Clean. 3 Bedrooms Plus Bonus Room/Den. Kitchen includes White Cabinets, Granite Counters, Huge Island with Breakfast Bar, Stainless Steel Appliances and Walk-in Pantry. Open and Bright with 10 Foot Ceilings and Wood Plank Tile Floors. Primary Suite has a Large Bedroom, Double Sinks, Walk-in Shower, Soaking Tub, Large Closet and is Split from the other Bedrooms. Secondary Bedrooms have Walk-in Closets. Backyard includes an Extended Covered Patio, Lots of Paver Work, Synthetic Grass, Built-in BBQ and Raised Planter. 3 Car Tandem Garage has an 8 Foot High Door for Taller Vehicles and Epoxy Floors. Community Amenities: Two Pools, Splash Pad, Large Lake, Large Park Area, Children's Playgrounds, Fire Pits & so much More

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7007 W Escuda Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$600,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,573 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769914

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

* NEW ROOF * NEWLY REMODELED BATHROOMS * NEW INTERIOR PAINT * HUGE LOT W/ RV GATE * RECENTLY UPDATED KITCHEN * Welcome home to your Arrowhead Lakes paradise with a massive backyard and sparking blue pool! Space is no shortage in the expansive living areas and 5 spacious bedrooms! This turn key house is ready for your personal touch as brand new neutral paint shows off in the ample amount of natural lighting throughout! Modern touches have been added in the bathroom remodels and lighting! If outdoor entertainment is a big part of your lifestyle, you will adore the lush green landscape that covers the sprawling backyard! Large shade trees help with keeping your home energy efficient while you cool down in your pool!!! Don't forget to check out the parks and golf courses that make Arrowhead lakes one of the most desirable communities in the valley!

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220 N Nielson Street Gilbert, AZ 85234

$600,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,357 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751130

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into this inviting home, where the journey begins in the bright and airy living room, bathed in natural light streaming through the sliding door. The heart of the home is the beautifully designed kitchen, where stunning walnut cabinets, sleek stainless-steel appliances, and a versatile movable island create the perfect space for cooking and entertaining. As you explore further, you'll find the floors are a tasteful mix of travertine tile, engineered hardwood, and other quality materials, all contributing to the home's elegance. Descending four steps, you'll discover two additional bedrooms, a den or potential theater room, and a full bath—ideal for guests or a private retreat. Ascend to the second story to find two more bedrooms sharing a full bath, along with the tranquil master suite, complete with its own bath for ultimate relaxation. Stepping outside, the property continues to impress with a sparkling pool, an outdoor barbecue area, and an upgraded AC unit installed in 2020, ensuring year-round comfort. The garage offers convenience with a new door and opener, while significant updates like roof plywood replacement, enhanced insulation, and a newly dual-pane windows throughout the home ensure energy efficiency and comfort. Every corner of this home blends modern updates with thoughtful design, creating a perfect balance of style and comfort. PLEASE ADD TO THE CONTRACT: ITEMS THAT DO NOT CONVEY: Outdoor Security Cameras, refrigerator in the garage.

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15244 N 7th Place Phoenix, AZ 85022

$600,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,932 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755157

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Retro Beauty with Mountain View! Step into this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, nestled on a spacious cul-de-sac with a large backyard, shed, and expansive covered patio for ultimate privacy. Enjoy stunning mountain views while relaxing in this serene setting. Inside, you'll find a cozy fireplace, formal living and dining rooms, and timeless old-world charm throughout. The master bathroom features a luxurious Steammist steam bath, transforming your daily routine into a personal spa experience. Located in a prime location, just a short distance from downtown, this home offers both convenience and character. A must-see for anyone seeking a blend of retro style, comfort, and modern luxury!

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5940 S Cobalt -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$600,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,373 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754737

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Offered for sale is this beautiful and well maintain 4 bedroom 3 bath home in Cadence. This home features 10 foot ceilings, and large living areas, gas plumbed for backyard BBQ, Tankless water heater, RO water goes to the fridge, carpet in the bedrooms and LVP in high traffic areas. Amazing Cadence community has many nice amenities including pool, club house and fitness center. Clear view of sunsets in the winter. This home is close to Arizona Athletic Grounds, grocery stores, gyms and freeway access.

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71 Lake Patagonia Road Nogales, AZ 85621

$600,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,962 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759683

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Patagonia Lake Subdivision. Enjoy the luxury lifestyle afforded with this 4 bed 3.5 bath residence nestled on a 4.4 acre lot with panoramic views. The soaring ceilings create a feeling of great space and security. This residence will make a great winter residence or a terrific year around home. Well maintained, this concrete block/stucco home boasts 6'' thick walls, Anderson Windows, R27 walls & R50 ceilings for comfort and energy efficiency in every season. 8' solid mahogany doors add a touch of elegance. Other features include, granite counters, bonus room (5th bedroom?), walk in closets, jetted bathtub, solar heated swimming pool, covered patio, private well, 2 car garage and fenced back yard. Seize this opportunity to call this masterpiece home

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9514 E San Carlos Way Globe, AZ 85501

$600,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,689 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764529

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming Country Home Coming Soon Discover your dream retreat in this beautiful 4-bedroom, 2 full 2 half-bathroom country home, boasting an expansive 2,689 sq. ft. of living space on a serene 1.43-acre lot. Enjoy the beauty of nature with multiple fruit trees and a convenient watering system. Relax and unwind as you take in the stunning views of Apache Peak from your own backyard. This property also features a detached garage, providing ample storage and workspace. Don't miss the opportunity to own this perfect blend of comfort and tranquility!

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3431 E Fairview Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$600,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,862 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770358

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Location, location, location! Beautifully upgraded single-level home in the highly sought-after Pecos Park community of Gilbert! Offering 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, this residence boasts new interior paint, elegant light fixtures and fans, plantation shutters throughout, and more! The vaulted ceilings and seamless open floor plan allow for ample natural light, creating a bright and airy ambiance throughout the home. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring granite countertops, a spacious island with breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and recessed lighting. The primary suite offers dual vanities, a soaking tub, step-in shower, and a walk-in closet. Outside, enjoy your private oasis with mature trees and landscaping, and a large covered patio.

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1145 E Del Rio Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$600,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,395 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768818

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Original owners! This well taken care of home. Home has 4 bedrooms (one bedroom downstairs) plus a loft and 2.5 baths. Downstairs bedroom has a minisplit AC unit in it. Bedroom #2 and #3 upstairs have walk-in closets. 2 car garage with epoxy floor, roll down screen door and side service door. Over 8,000 sf north/south lot has an easy maintenance front yard, grass backyard and play pool with removeable fence and variable speed motor/pump. Extra bonus is the RV gate with plenty of storage space on the east side of the house. 2 storage sheds in backyard will convey. Roof approximately 2 years old. NOTE: The section of the roof where the solar panels are was not reroofed. 5 year old AC units and air handlers. 7 yr. old water heater. Water softener. Solar is a prepaid lease.

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22788 E Orion Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$600,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,634 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767865

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the Harvest Community in Queen Creek! This welcoming community has multiple parks, a children's playground, scenic lake, community pools and more. You can't miss Food Truck Wednesdays!You'll love the layout of this new construction home - four bedrooms PLUS a den/office, and 3 full bathrooms. The kitchen has been designed with Tahoe Maple Stained ''Coffee'' cabinets with 42' Uppers and a 4 1/2'' crown detail. Vahalla granite countertops, a 30'' gas cook top and large walk in pantry paired with an impressive great room. Upgraded flooring with EMS Baccarat 12x24 tile and Level 9 Cedar Grove berber carpet. Step into your primary retreat - great space, with a large en suite bathroom and walk in closet. Top it off with a 3 car tandem garage for plenty of storage. MUST see in person!

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1809 E Minnezona Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$600,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,353 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771653

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is already an income producing property as it grossed 51,288.32 over the last 12 months. A great investment opportunity for Builders or anyone looking to increase their home size and value! Approved building plans and permits to add a 2-stall garage and over 700 sq foot of additional living space will be included with the purchase of this property. The approved permits and plans would add an additional master suite, living room and laundry room. The original house was fully remodeled in 2023 and is has been a very successful rental property.

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