Securing a loan for a home you want to buy requires more than just the right credit score and down payment. Lenders are cautious about what they give out, as they can be hurt by providing mortgages that are larger than the value of the home being purchased. One way they protect themselves is through the appraisal process, a review that helps establish a property’s worth. That process has faced recent challenges due to the demand for homes growing at faster rate than home construction. You may have questions about this process now that there are new rules on appraisal waivers. Instead of waiting for an appraiser to perform an in-person review, you can instead have a desktop-based appraisal of the property take place. This alternative approach can shorten the buying process and even reduce costs, but you may worry about what it does to your ability to receive a loan.
FHL Texas supports prospective homebuyers in many ways. We provide important information for those who are entering the real estate market for the first time, but we also take care of people who are more experienced in property buying and selling. Our guidance can help you make sense of appraisal waivers and their impact on your housing plans. We can also help you determine if this change will affect your interest in refinancing. (more…)