Whom to Contact - Q & A
Q: When estimating values, what are the standards used by appraisers?
A: Several factors are considered by appraisers when estimating a home's value. Factors such as; property performance, historical records to the most important factor, the condition of the home, which calculates its forecast value. If you wish to find more detailed information pertaining to appraisal standards, feel free to contact the Appraisal Institute at 875 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60611-1980; (312) 335-4458.
Q: Where can I find information in regards to housing discrimination?
A: If you are looking for more information about housing discrimination, you can call the U.S. Department of Justice at (202) 514-2000, 950 Pennsylvania Ave., NW DC 20530 or your local U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development office.
If you are in search of more detailed information, the booklet, “You Loan is Denied, Defending Yourself Against Mortgage Lending Discrimination,” is available from the Center for Investigative Reporting, 500 Howard Street, Suite 206, San Francisco, CA 94105-3008 or call (415) 543-1200.
Q: Where can I locate more information about real estate closing costs?
A: For more information about real estate closing costs, ask for the, “Consumer's Guide to Mortgage Settlement Costs,”available at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Public Information Department, P.O. Box 7702, San Francisco, CA 94120, or call (415) 974-2163.
Q: Where can I obtain more information about housing market stats?
A: The best source for finding out the status of the local housing market are real estate agents. In addition to this, another reliable source is your statewide association of REALTORS®, most of which frequently compile statistics from the local real estate boards.
If its overall housing statistics you seek, quarterly reports on home building and home buying are published regularly by U.S. Housing Markets. If your local builders association does not get these quarterly reports contact the housing research firm for the information which is located in Canton, MI; call (800) 755-6269. The research firm also maintains its own Internet site. Another source for these quarterly reports is the Census in Washington D.C., you can contact them by calling (301) 495-4700. The Census also maintains its own Internet site. Lastly, the Chicago Title company has a publication of their own entitled, “Who's Buying Homes in America.” To receive a copy write the Chicago Title and Trust Family of Title Insurers at 171 North Clark., Chicago, IL 60601-3294.
Q: Where can I find a local home inspector?
A: There are three ways in which you can find a local home inspector. The first source is your real estate agent. Second, there are several local home inspectors listed in the yellow pages. Third, you can ask for referrals from your friends and colleagues. When asking for referrals make sure you ask for their credentials as well, such as; their contractor's license or engineering certificate. Be sure to check out their references too.
