A Revision Request That Could Cost You Everything
Oct 26, 2025
In the last year, I’ve noticed a troubling trend: more and more appraisers are receiving revision requests tied to potential loan buybacks. At first glance, these look like routine revisions—fix this, clarify that—but make no mistake: these are red flags that demand your full attention.
Here’s the deal. When a loan goes bad—maybe the borrower defaults or there's a foreclosure—the lender who sold the loan (often to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac) may be asked to repurchase it. That’s when the blame game begins. The lender doesn’t want to absorb the loss, so they turn to the appraisal. Suddenly, your report is under a microscope, and you’re being asked to "revise" a file that might be one or even two years old.
This isn’t just a normal revision. This is legal territory. If you're not careful, your response could land you in front of your state board or a judge. I’ve seen it happen.
When that request comes in, hit pause. First, ask for an extension so you’re not rushing through it. Second, call your E&O provider immediately—they’re there to help you, and no, it won’t raise your premium just to talk to them. Finally, consider hiring an expert to guide your response. This isn’t the time to go it alone.
Bottom line: treat a potential buyback revision the same way you’d treat a state board investigation—because that’s often what it becomes. Your license, your livelihood, and your peace of mind depend on it.
Check out The Appraiser Coach Podcast for more info on this topic:
