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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16026 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,378

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,674 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6649950

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7810 E Quintana Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$579,340

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,960 SqFt

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Show Low AZ 85901

$579,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,065 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6716176

Property Type Single Family Residence

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22261 W Ocupado Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,900 SqFt

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104 N 3114 -- Vernon, AZ 85940

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,866 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713245

Property Type Single Family Residence

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$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,639 SqFt

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18225 W Paseo Way Goodyear, AZ 85338

$579,000

5 Beds

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3,058 SqFt

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MLS # 6760115

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22410 N Arrellaga Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,684 SqFt

Status Active

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Property Type Single Family Residence

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2103 W Claremont Street Phoenix, AZ 85015

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,495 SqFt

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Property Type Townhouse

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Stunning transformed home showcasing meticulous design and lavish upgrades throughout. As you approach, custom security and entry doors welcome you. Upon entering, custom luxury vinyl plank floors flow seamlessly into the open-concept living area. The chef's dream kitchen features top-of-the-line premium appliances, custom cabinetry, and a massive quartz-topped center island. The spacious master suite is a true sanctuary, offering a huge walk-in closet with its own washer and dryer hookup. The luxurious en-suite bathroom features a custom tiled walk-in shower with built-in seating, a freestanding soaking tub, and a double vanity with stylish fixtures. Additionally, the home includes two multi-functional bonus rooms PLUS an indoor enclosed patio. A true dream home!

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27015 N 55th Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,234 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784325

Property Type Single Family Residence

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EXQUISITE HOME WITH 3 CAR GARAGE ON A LARGE LOT. The attractive curb appeal greets you upon arrival. Once inside, you might be dazzled with the beauty of this elegant home. Pass through the Formal Dining Room (or use as a den) to an open Great Room featuring a huge Family Room, spacious dining area & kitchen with eating counter. There is all hard-surfaced flooring with gorgeous tile and wood throughout. PLANTATION SHUTTERS THROUGHOUT THE HOME. Bedrooms are very generous in size...all bedrooms have walk-in closets. ALL APPLIANCES ARE INCLUDED. (FURNITURE IS AVAILABLE TOO.) The yard has a large covered patio with plenty of room for a future pool if desired. Double-gates to the wide side yard. Mature landscaping adorns the front & back yard of this wonderful home in desirable Stetson Valley.

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1124 S Sycamore Circle Unit 1 Payson, AZ 85541

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,650 SqFt

Status Active

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Property Type Single Family Residence

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14874 W Luna Circle Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$579,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,285 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785958

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom + Den home on an oversized corner lot in the desirable Village at Litchfield Park. The bright, open floor plan features a spacious great room that flows into the kitchen and dining area, perfect for entertaining. The kitchen boasts gorgeous upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, stylish backsplash, a large island with a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances and a gas cooktop with double ovens. The primary suite is separate from the other bedrooms, offering privacy and luxury with a bathroom that includes a soaking tub, dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The lush backyard features an extended covered paver patio and mature landscaping—an ideal spot for gatherings and enjoying stunning Arizona sunsets.

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