What is the purpose of the HVCC?
Enacted May 1, 2009, the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC) is a set of rules for the mortgage lending and real estate appraisal industries. The intended purpose of the HVCC is to protect appraiser independence and prevent pressure from being applied to appraisers to produce a desired property value. The HVCC specifically prohibits any party from coercing, suggesting, or influencing appraisers in any way to produce a specific or desired value for a residential property. All loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac must abide by the HVCC.
Ultimately, these safeguards are intended to protect consumers. Even though there has been considerable debate about the unintended consequences of the HVCC, compliance is required for all loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
What can I expect to change because of the HVCC?
Nothing will change in the actual appraisal reports we produce. We've always focused on ensuring accurate, independent valuations in our appraisal reports. It's the core value of our business. We'll continue to do that going forward and we're ready and qualified to make sure everything we do complies with the HVCC.
The process of ordering appraisals has changed. However, if you're a homeowner in need of an appraisal of your home, an attorney needing a property appraisal, or even if you work for a small community bank or credit union and will continue to communicate directly with appraisers, you can order your appraisal with confidence knowing that we're well versed in current rules and regulations.
- Mortgage lenders, mortgage brokers and originators: We are experts in providing mortgage appraisals on real estate in the San Diego area. We perform full residential appraisals on Fannie Mae form 1004, drive-bys with exterior photos, interior inspections, single family, multi-family, condo, manufactured housing, HUD/FHA appraisals, purchased properties, or refinancing.
- REALTORS® and real estate agents: We offer pre-listing appraisal services in metro San Diego, as well as a full range of appraisal services to support your clients’ home buying or home selling needs.
- FSBOs, home sellers and homeowners: A listing appraisal can be a powerful tool for a for-sale-by-owner home seller. And give yourself peace of mind that your largest investment — your San Diego area real estate — is really worth what you think it is by obtaining a professional appraisal.
