Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

Property Appraisal

If I paid to have a appraisal done for my house but the lending company ordered it. Is it within my rights to ask the appraisal company to e-mail me a copy of it? The appraisal company say that I don't have a right to get it unless the lender OK it. The lender whnt tell them to e-mail it to me because I want to use another. What right do I have?


Asked on 5/08/07, 5:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Property Appraisal

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

I have good news and bad news for you. First the good news is that if you paid out of your pocket for the appraisal, the lender is required to give you a copy of it whether or not you close with them.

The bad news is that a new lender will generally not accept the appraisal prepared for another lender. In earlier years, an appraiser would change the name of the lender for a small fee and you could proceed with the same appraisal but the appraisers will usually refuse to do that anymore. Try and negotiate with the new lender to deduct the cost from one of their fees to cover the cost of the second appraisal.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 5/08/07, 8:54 pm


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