Appraisers' Free Forum

I got an order from a law firm which says -- 'Your name was provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to conduct a liquidation appraisal on the above referenced property. Please be advised that the property is vacant.'

I have 30 days to do the appraisal and I am to bill the law firm, no other information. It is not a VA of Rural Housing number. Number is LS&R No.: 200xxxxxx. Any ideas about loan type, report expectations, etc. I do not want to appear like a doofuss. Anyone have any experience with a similar type number or request?

Thanks!

The request sounds too sketchy to me. I'd call or email them back to clarify the scope of work. If it's going to court, the scope of work will be completely different than just a standard ole' URAR. As for billing, I get at least half up front from all first time out of town clients and individuals.

I agree with Mel. No one gets credit unless they earn my respect first. Everyone pays. Law firms pay on retainers.

Joker wrote:I agree with Mel. No one gets credit unless they earn my respect first. Everyone pays. Law firms pay on retainers.

Lawyers are the worst offenders when it comes to non-payment

I've never had any problems getting paid, but I have had problems with being called to drive 80 miles as a material witness for $25. It usually gets cleared up real quick when you explain that you know the difference between a material witness and a professional witness.

Mako wrote:

Joker wrote:I agree with Mel. No one gets credit unless they earn my respect first. Everyone pays. Law firms pay on retainers.

Lawyers are the worst offenders when it comes to non-payment

I have seldom dealt with lawyers, but from those I know who do, this is a common comment.

Stone wrote:

Mako wrote:

Joker wrote:I agree with Mel. No one gets credit unless they earn my respect first. Everyone pays. Law firms pay on retainers.

Lawyers are the worst offenders when it comes to non-payment

I have seldom dealt with lawyers, but from those I know who do, this is a common comment.

Thankfully I'm a quick study...fee up front please!

Honest to God...worst offenders And while I don't like to attack entire professions or groups wholesale...I've found lawyers to be a conniving bunch.

Getting paid is the least of my worries. This firm has paid me promptly for well over 10 years.

The order is not a typical liquidation assignment that I receive; atypical. My feelings are that it is more cost effective (sounds better than cheaper) to order a 2nd appraisal than a review. It's an account I would most like to get.