How Long Does It Take to Get an Appraisal Scheduled?

A real estate appraisal provides a professional, unbiased opinion of a property’s value. This valuation is a component in various financial transactions, including home purchases, sales, and refinancing, as it helps lenders determine the appropriate loan amount for a property. The time it takes to schedule this step can vary significantly, influenced by numerous factors within the real estate market.

Factors Influencing Scheduling

Several elements directly affect how quickly an appraisal can be scheduled, beginning with appraiser availability. The number of appraisers in a specific geographic area, combined with their current workload, plays a role. During periods of high real estate activity, such as busy selling seasons or times of low interest rates, the demand for appraisals surges, potentially leading to longer wait times for scheduling. A shortage of appraisers, particularly in rural regions, can worsen these delays.

The characteristics of the property also influence scheduling. Standard residential properties present fewer challenges, while properties with unique features, extensive renovations, or unusual layouts are considered complex. These complex assignments require appraisers with specialized expertise or more time to conduct research and analysis, which can extend the scheduling timeline. Properties located in remote areas may experience longer scheduling times due to fewer local appraisers and increased travel demands.

Appraisal Management Companies (AMCs) coordinate the appraisal process between lenders and appraisers. AMCs streamline administrative tasks, including appraiser selection and assignment, adding a step to the timeline. While AMCs aim for efficiency, their processes and assignment criteria (e.g., workload, proximity) can impact how quickly an appraiser is assigned and contacts the property owner. The responsiveness of all parties—lender, real estate agents, homeowners—in providing information or access is another factor that can accelerate or delay scheduling.

Typical Scheduling Timelines

From the initial request to the actual inspection date, the timeline for scheduling a home appraisal can fluctuate. Lenders initiate the appraisal order within one to two business days after an offer has been accepted on a property. Once the appraisal is ordered and assigned, the appraiser or an Appraisal Management Company contacts the relevant party (often the real estate agent or seller) to set the inspection appointment. This scheduling can occur within a few days of the order being placed.

The physical inspection of the property is scheduled within a few days to a couple of weeks from the time the appraiser is assigned. However, in active real estate markets or for complex properties, this timeframe can extend to three to four weeks. It is important to distinguish that these timelines refer to scheduling the physical inspection, not the delivery of the completed appraisal report. The report requires additional time, often two to seven business days after the inspection, as the appraiser completes research and analysis.

Expediting the Scheduling Process

While some factors influencing appraisal scheduling are beyond an individual’s control, proactive steps can help expedite the process. Being prepared with property information and documents is beneficial. This includes records of home renovations, repairs, or upgrades, along with associated costs and dates, available for the appraiser. Providing property tax records and prior appraisal reports can assist the appraiser in valuation process.

Prompt communication with all involved parties is important. Responding quickly to requests from the lender, real estate agent, or Appraisal Management Company for information or to confirm scheduling details can prevent delays. Ensuring easy access to the property at the scheduled inspection time is crucial to avoid rescheduling. Homeowners should clear clutter and ensure all areas, including attics and basements, are accessible for review.

Communicating deadlines or time sensitivities to the lender and scheduling parties can help prioritize the appraisal. While these actions can contribute to a smoother, faster scheduling experience, it is important to maintain realistic expectations. Market conditions and appraiser availability will dictate the timeline, regardless of individual efforts.