When might an appraiser find site visit data valuable in their reports?

Site visit data is particularly valuable during property inspections to gather information about the property because it allows the appraiser to assess the physical attributes and condition of the property firsthand. This includes evaluating aspects such as the layout, quality of construction, and any unique features, as well as identifying issues that may not be apparent in public records or comparable sales data.

During a site visit, the appraiser can also take note of the neighborhood's characteristics, which can influence property value. This firsthand observation ensures that the appraisal report is based on accurate, up-to-date information about the property itself, rather than relying solely on secondary data sources. Thus, the insights gained during a site visit significantly enhance the reliability and accuracy of the appraisal compared to simply utilizing market analysis or financial documents, which are less definitive without direct observation.