The Best Realtors Don’t Wait for the Appraisal. They Prepare for It
We’re always looking for ways to better serve our clients, and that includes understanding every step of the transaction, especially the appraisal process.
Recently, Triangle Appraisal Group published a blog featuring insights from our very own April Stephens, sharing her perspective on how Realtors can better prepare for appraisals and support their clients throughout the process.
This article highlights the importance of communication between Realtors and appraisers, especially in today’s market where accuracy and context matter more than ever.
We’ve included the full article below, with credit to Triangle Appraisal Group.
You can also read the original post here:
https://triangleappraisalgroup.com/2026/04/13/the-best-realtors-dont-wait-for-the-appraisal-they-prepare-for-it/
The Best Realtors Don’t Wait for the Appraisal, They Prepare for It
Deals can grow tense when an appraisal comes in unexpectedly. From the homebuyer’s perspective, it often feels like the numbers are final. With everything Realtors are responsible for today, understanding how to challenge an appraisal on a client’s behalf can sometimes be overlooked.
Since 2009, communication between appraisers and Realtors has been limited. When that communication is encouraged, better outcomes are possible.
Triangle Appraisal Group recently sat down with local real estate industry leader April Stephens to discuss her approach to Realtor education and why strong communication with real estate partners, especially appraisers, is more important than ever.
Let’s break it down.
The Disconnect Between Realtors and Appraisers
The disconnect between Realtors and appraisers was significantly impacted by the Home Valuation Code of Conduct in 2009. While there are valid reasons for these guidelines, it is important to recognize how both sides can benefit from open, non-biased communication.
“Realtors and appraisers are working toward the same goal: accurate value. But too often, they’re not working together to get there.”
From Stephens’ experience, communication gaps typically happen when:
This gap can impact more than just timelines.
“A lack of communication doesn’t just create confusion. It can impact real dollars in a transaction.”
When communication is present, it leads to smoother transactions, clearer expectations, and stronger trust across all parties involved.
TAG Tip: April is actively working to change this narrative through her Industry Training segment of The Real School. She and her team provide hands-on training for both new and seasoned Realtors alongside local industry partners, including appraisers. Triangle Appraisal Group also hosted a webinar for The Real School titled “Appraisal Decoded: What Every Realtor Should Know.”
The Importance of Communication in Unique or Changing Markets
Some may argue that when comps are clear and readily available, communication is not necessary. While that can be true in some cases, not every property fits neatly into a box.
“Not every property fits neatly into a box, and those are the ones where communication matters most.”
Additional factors like zoning, location convenience, and proximity can influence value in ways that raw data alone may not capture.
“Context matters just as much as data. Especially when a property doesn’t fit the mold.”
What Stephens emphasizes is two-fold:
-
If a property is unique, and context plays a major role in determining value, that information needs to be communicated, especially during a pre-listing appraisal
-
Partnering with local, trusted real estate professionals who understand that context is essential
The main takeaway:
“The more unique the property, the more important it is to connect the dots, not just compare the numbers.”
TAG Tip: Triangle Appraisal Group is a preferred appraisal vendor for select branches of Allen Tate Howard Hanna and Keller Williams. Teams can also schedule Lunch and Learn sessions to better understand the appraisal process.
What Realtors Can Do to Support the Appraisal Process
There is an opportunity for Realtors to actively support both their clients and the appraiser throughout the process. April Stephens shared several key principles.
-
“Understanding an appraisal isn’t just helpful. It’s part of advocating for your client.”
Your client looks to you for guidance and next steps. Building trust starts with understanding the appraisal process and report.
-
“If something doesn’t look right, it’s worth asking questions. But it starts with understanding the report.”
Once that foundation is there, there are clear steps to address concerns. Challenging an appraisal becomes more approachable and more effective when necessary.
-
“The best agents don’t react to appraisals, they prepare for them.”
“A well-supported value doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from preparation, not just negotiation,” says Stephens.
Realtors can support the appraisal process by:
-
Providing relevant context about the property
-
Sharing additional data or comparable sales when appropriate
-
Communicating with the appraiser when clarification is needed
Collaboration helps create a smoother transaction for everyone involved.
TAG Tip: For more insight on how home values vary across the area, read “Why Your Johnston County Home Might Be Worth More (or Less)”
https://aprilstephens.com/About-Us/Blog/Blog-Details/id/1277/Why-Your-Johnston-County-Home-Might-Be-Worth-More-Or-Less
Rebuilding the Appraiser and Realtor Relationship
The relationship between appraisers and Realtors has shifted over the past two decades as regulations have evolved. What this conversation makes clear is that communication is not just helpful, it is necessary.
When Realtors and appraisers work together, the result is stronger valuations, smoother transactions, and better outcomes for clients. Continuing to encourage collaboration across the industry benefits everyone involved.
Article Credit
This article was originally written and published by Triangle Appraisal Group.
Written by Rachel Mann
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-mann-15427422b/
Thinking About Buying or Selling
If you are thinking about buying or selling, having a strategy that supports every step of the process matters.
Call 919-651-HOME
Visit aprilstephens.com/contact-us