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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311 W Campbell Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85013

$469,000

2 Beds

1 Bath

982 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694291

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

DELIGHTFUL CHARM in all the best ways inside this 2B/1b quaint historic Yaple Park, located walking distance to the lightrail, Lux Coffee, and restaurants galore! Coveted features of this beauty include historic wood flooring t/o, wood burning fireplace, ceiling height kitchen cabinetry, coved plaster ceilings in living room, unique picture windows (beautiful light in every room), original solid wood doors and hardware, and vintage bath tile. Newer updates & upgrades include a pavered north facing front conversation patio, blown-in cellulose insulation in the attic, updated wiring t/o the interior of the home, newer hexagonal kitchen tile flooring (installed with proper sub-flooring), newer gas water heater, newer roof (2019), new concrete rear patio, with wooden deck for entertaining, partly updated sewer (with ABS) at the kitchen sink & clean outs in rear yard, and new dual paned French doors to the rear patio and yard. This incredible starter property also has very inexpensive flood irrigation rights through SRP, large shade trees, an exterior garage (and laundry room) that could be converted to a guest house down the road, gated parking, and qualifies for historic taxes through the City of Phoenix (owner just needs to apply - see application in documents tab). For simple, beautiful, charm-filled living in a walkable area it doesn't get much better than this in Central Phoenix! Must see!!

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16102 W Quail Creek Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$469,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,712 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6696261

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully remodeled and updated Manzanita 2BD/1.75BA 1712 Sq.Ft. beauty. NEW Roof 2020, HVAC 2019, office enclosed for nice extra private space. Kitchen cabinets with under cab lighting, and backsplash 2018. Beautiful granite adorns the kitchen! Updated Primary and Guest bathrooms 2018. Neutral colors, crown molding, plantation shutters, Energy efficient windows and screens. RO, soft water system too! Replaced Irrigation valves, updated cabinet pulls. 2-Car extended garage with storage. What a lovely, well cared for home just waiting for you!

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1007 W Canyonlands Court San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$469,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,443 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694828

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! This highly desirable cul-de-sac, fabulous two-story abode is about to be yours! Once inside, you'll immediately notice the harmonious open floor plan graced with bountiful natural light and tile flooring. Spotless kitchen is equipped with plenty of espresso cabinets, recessed & pendant lighting, built-in appliances, a handy pantry, and a center island with a breakfast bar. Head upstairs to discover the sizable loft complemented by built in wraparound desk and a wall-mounted fireplace to keep you warm during cooler months. Romantic main bedroom includes plush carpet, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Finally, the generous-sized backyard with its covered patio, lovely gazebo, hot tub and artificial turf is the right spot for unwinding or gatherings. This gem is the one you're looking for!!

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2032 W Rancho Drive Phoenix, AZ 85015

$469,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,604 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700849

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE-IN READY SOLIDLY BUILT CHARMER in Bethany Villas, a quiet, friendly, and walkable neighborhood in West Central Phoenix. Absolutely turn key, the owners went above and beyond the fully remodeled condition in which they bought it in 2022, and added even more upgrades! Features include all major systems updated, including newer electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, dual paned windows, flooring, exquisitely upgraded kitchens and baths, with newer appliances, including washer, dryer, and fridge (with newly installed water line), matte finish quartz countertop island with storage (including deep drawers), recessed canned lighting, newer plumbing and lighting fixtures t/o, newer water heater, lush and attractive front and rear landscaping (AZ Ash and Pistache shade trees, and ficus bushes), newer rear yard perimeter block wall fencing, RV gate with alley access, and newer cellular blind window coverings t/o. If you want to live in a true community with neighborhood gatherings, a community Facebook group (the Simpson neighborhood association), neighborhood newsletter, coordinated yearly garage sales, potluck, neighborhood happy hours, holiday events, luminaria lightings, and hot chocolate gatherings, in a house that is completely ready to move in, this is it!!

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1839 W Utopia Road Phoenix, AZ 85027

$469,000

3 Beds

1 Bath

1,161 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6701569

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! This delightful 3-bedroom residence features a practical RV gate and a low-maintenance yard. The living room has a neutral palette and contemporary wood-look flooring. The eat-in kitchen comes with quartz counters, white shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a stylish tile backsplash, and sliding doors that open to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Each cozy, well-sized bedroom offers plush carpeting and ample closet space. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets in the enchanting backyard, which offers an open patio, artificial turf, and a sparkling pool for cooling down on hot summer days. This value won't disappoint! *Sellers are willing to assist with 5k credit toward buyers closing costs

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11437 N Coggins Drive Sun City, AZ 85351

Open House

$469,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,766 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SPECTACULAR remodeled home on the golf course**Come see what your dream home feels like! This beauty offers a spacious open floorplan with exquisite design and modern upgrades throughout in the heart of Sun City 55+ community. Meticulously updated offering the perfect blend of style and functionality. Whether you enjoy relaxing indoors or entertaining guests outdoors, this home has it all.**Key Features are-Chef-sized kitchen with new cabinets galore-New sleek appliances-Oversized kitchen island for meal prep and casual dining-Custom pergola back patio overlooking the golf course-Primary bedroom offers a large walk-in closet for ample storage and luxurious walk-in shower and modern bathtub for a spa-like experience in the primary bathroom-Convenient laundry room inside the home-Updated fixtures and finishes throughout give you a complete contemporary look. New roof for peace of mind and great curb appeal-Serene views of the golf course and surrounding greenery. Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of paradise in Sun City. See it today and make this beautifully remodeled home yours!

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16918 W Marcos De Niza Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

Open House

$469,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,518 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6703635

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Upgraded split floorplan. 2 bd/2 ba + den. Stunning front paver courtyard offers picturesque sunset views. Security screen door. Dream kitchen w/white cabinets, granite counters, & tile backsplash, illuminated by both a skylight & recessed lights for a bright, airy feel. Entertain with ease as the kitchen & dining area seamlessly transition into the Great Room, featuring media wall w/floating shelves + stone accents. Retreat to the owner's ''sanctuary of relaxation'' w/charming bay window & a stunning doorless tiled shower, complimented by a new tall vanity, granite counters, framed mirror, + new lights. The hall bath also boasts a tall vanity, granite counter, & new lights. Backyard w/patio beckons for outdoor enjoyment, & has knee & pony walls , lush landscape for privacy & pets+ FENCE

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42833 W Mallard Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

Open House

$469,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,945 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6636635

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOTIVATED SELLERS - OFFERING 3% SELLERS CONCESSIONS FOR CLOSING COSTS OR RATE BUY DOWN. Move-In Ready! Both bedrooms have ensuites and a den/office/workout room. Kitchen with under-cabinet lights, gas appliances double oven range. Butler's pantry and walk-in pantry, cabinets have dual pull-outs. Granite countertops, oversized island with additional storage. Laundry with counter space and cabinets.10' ceilings and 8' doorways. Extended Bay Window on the primary bedroom. Tile flooring throughout. Backyard has gated side yards with bunny fencing. Extended pergola patio, pavers and outdoor BBQ. Foam insulation, energy-efficient windows with sun-screens, and a powered attic ventilator. Ceiling fans in all rooms. A 25' extended and insulated garage with sink and 5' storage extension. Items to convey - back patio TV and cabinet with covers, garage TV and sound bar, King bedframe with mattress in Primary bedroom, and desert scape artwork above bed.

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13256 N 38th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

$468,999

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6643265

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this breathtakingly remodeled home, a true gem that blends modern luxury with unparalleled convenience. Situated just a mile east of SR 51, this home offers swift access to major roads and urban amenities. A short stroll down the street leads to the lush expanses of Indian Bend Park, providing a perfect setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Perfect for New Beginnings. This home isn't just a residence; it's a lifestyle choice. Whether you're looking for a peaceful family haven or a vibrant social hub, this property caters to all. It is the perfect way to start your new year in style.

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18755 E Elizar Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$468,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,070 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6695197

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Entrada del Oro in the Superstition Mountains: A serene desert escape with breathtaking, rugged beauty. Perfect for sunrise and sunset admirers.

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40258 W Michaels Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$468,995

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,370 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6695514

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You'll find plenty to love about the Raleigh plan! The center of the home boasts a large gourmet kitchen with a convenient center island and walk-in pantry, which flows into an open-concept dining room and great room. The owner's suite is adjacent, with a private bath and a walk-in closet. There are three additional bedrooms and a bath off the great room and off the entry is a private study. Outside, enjoy your corner lot and large covered patio!

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18740 E Elizar Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$468,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,930 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6679862

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Entrada Del Oro..... Entrance to Gold! Charming 3BR/2.5BA home! The back yard offers picture perfect views of Superstition Mountains and is the ideal place to enjoy evening sunsets. Beautiful Laminate flooring throughout with carpet in the bedrooms, kitchen comes with GE kitchen appliances & Quartz counter tops, two tone interior paint. The front yard comes desert landscaped and driveway is complete with pavers, make this home yours today!

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