Hey everyone, Mike Giampa here with DC Metro Appraisals.
Certified in VA, MD, and DC – 32 years appraising, 14,000+ reports, private focus on divorce, estate, date-of-death, tax appeals, and pre-listing.
Realtors vent to me all the time about VA appraisals. “Too slow,” “too strict,” “kills deals.” I’ve heard it for decades. Here’s the straight truth on why agents don’t love VA appraisers – and why the VA system is actually the fairest, most pro-realtor method out there.
The #1 complaint? The VA gives us 14 calendar days to complete the appraisal.
Many realtors want lightning-fast closings to get paid quick. A VA appraiser doesn’t have to rush for anyone else’s timeline – only the VA’s. I do everything I can to turn reports fast and help the veteran close on time, but sometimes issues pop up beyond my control (Professional Property Walkthrough, comp research, etc.). On conventional or FHA loans, miss a lender due date and they might drop you. VA? No pressure like that.
Another gripe: Agents think VA appraisers are “too strict” with Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) – peeling paint, safety hazards, handrails, etc.
Truth is, VA MPRs are basically the same as FHA. Seasoned realtors know this and prep sellers. Newer agents get caught off guard. I don’t give heads-up on repairs – the report is subject to them. The realtor should have prepped the seller. It’s fair – we want veterans in safe homes, just like FHA buyers.
Then there’s Tidewater – the process agents love to hate.
If it looks like value might not hit contract price, I alert the lender early. They have 48 hours to tell realtors to submit their best comps. I can’t submit the report until I get those comps or time runs out. Tidewater is just notice – not a guarantee of low value. With 30+ years, I usually spot issues early. But it’s the most pro-realtor/pro-lender process there is – you get a heads-up and chance to fight for value before the report’s done. Conventional/FHA Reconsiderations of Value (ROV) happen after submission – too late. Tidewater lets agents submit comps upfront. They should love it.
Realtors can’t “choose” their VA appraiser anyway.
Assignments come from the Regional Loan Center (RLC) in Roanoke via blind round-robin – no influence from realtor, lender, or anyone. Truly the best method I’ve seen in all my years. Keeps it neutral, fair, and free from pressure.
Bottom line: VA appraisals protect veterans with safety standards and fair timelines, give agents the best shot at value with Tidewater, and run on a clean blind system. Frustrating sometimes? Sure. But it’s the most honest process out there.
If you’re a realtor with VA deals in Fairfax, Prince William, Loudoun, Arlington, DC, Montgomery, or Prince George’s Counties – I get it. Let’s work together to make them smooth. Private appraisals too? Divorce, estate, tax appeal – call/text 703-350-2542 or mtg@myappraisalservice.com. Available 24/7.
Mike Giampa
Certified Residential Appraiser – DC ∙ Maryland ∙ Virginia
DC Metro Appraisals
Private appraisals only