Through my years as a practicing real estate appraiser, I have heard complaints and comments from agents that appraisers often inform them that they cannot communicate with them or accept any information from them. This is simply not true. Appraiser's, especially those that entered the business after the 2008 crash, wrongly think that working and communicating with Realtors and/or listing and selling agents and accepting an offer of MLS data or information specific to the subject property is inappropriate. This thinking is incorrect and contrary to USPAP. As a matter of fact, consideration of agent data is appropriate and can be vital to developing a credible appraisal. Of course, any data provided by an agent or interested party must be vetted, confirmed and verified by the appraiser. Remaining objective and producing a credible appraisal report is paramount for all appraiser's reputations.
That is why it is important to engage a seasoned appraiser when professionalism and objectivity are key to a successful transaction.