Appraisal Strategy Altered in Unstable Canadian Market
Several Canadian banks have reconsidered their appraisal strategies due to increased concern about the accuracy of property values in a market with the potential to overheat, the Globe and Mail reported June 13. Canadian lenders currently use such valuation methods as full appraisals, drive-by appraisals and databases to determine market value. Banks are emphasizing on-site visits, particularly for properties over a certain price threshold or in rural areas, the Globe and Mail reported. They also are more carefully evaluating who performs appraisals. The banks hope that increased diligence will result in more accurate values in light of concerns about an...