It’s easy to lump everyone together when you talk about the mess in the mortgage system.
But let’s be real: not every lender is hiding behind layers of middlemen and excuses.
There are plenty of lenders out there doing it right:
Using clear, transparent platforms instead of a black-box AMC.
Engaging directly with the appraiser—not just firing off auto-generated status updates
Respecting timelines, respecting expertise, and understanding that quality matters more than speed alone.
Treating the appraisal as a vital check and balance, not just a compliance checkbox to protect themselves.
And here’s what I’ve noticed over the years:
Big banks are often more worried about their board meetings, quarterly earnings calls, and keeping shareholders happy.
Meanwhile…
Local and regional banks still care about community.
They’re the ones whose kids probably played on the same sports team as yours.
The ones you bump into at the local restaurant or community fundraiser.
The ones who actually care if you pick up the phone because they know your name—and your reputation—matters.
I see it most often with:
Regional lenders
Community banks and credit unions
The VA (which, for all its quirks, still allows trainees and respects the appraiser’s role)
So before anyone thinks this is all just complaining, let me be clear:
There are great lenders out there.
Lenders who put the homeowner first.
Lenders who understand that transparency, collaboration, and fair compensation aren’t optional.
To those folks: Thank you.
You set the standard—and I wish more of the industry would take notes.
Because when the process works, it doesn’t just protect consumers.
It builds trust.
And that’s something we could use a lot more of in this business.
#Appraisers #MortgageReform #Transparency #ProtectTheConsumer #FutureOfAppraisal #LeadershipInValuation
Hardesty Appraisals 