----- Original Message -----

From: Liz Buchanan

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 1:33 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

All I can say about those telescoping ladders is OUCH. I’ve never opened one without at least one injury, albeit minor. Seems the smaller they fold down the harder they are to open.  Miata size? Whoa that’s small.

Liz

 

Elizabeth L. Buchanan

Providing Value to the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Mailto:Liz@...

phone 228-864-9040; fax 228-864-2570

Order your appraisal online!  www.AppraisingTheCoast.com

 

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Kathleen bryce
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 12:07 PM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

I drive a Miata and DO take a ladder.  I found a telescoping one that will fit in the trunk.  BUT it weighs like 2,000 pounds and is a PITA to put up and put down and I always end up getting a pinched finger.  Frankly I just started charging too much to do FHA that I never get any assignments. 

 

What would happen if I fall off the ladder and break something more important than my pride?  Not worth it to me right now as the sole bread winner, chief cook and bottle washer around here..

 

----- Original Message -----

From: Paul James

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 1:03 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] What is the Legal Description

Kat

FWIW-I sometimes use a shortened legal on page 1 of the URAR, but have the full legal on my attached plat.

PJ

 

Paul James RAA

3906 Buena Vista Ave

Farmington, NM 87401
paul@...
phone 505-325-6651
fax 505-327-7168

for more information about me, see my web page: www.pjappraisals.com

for information about my Pocket Laser Targets go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2nv5sh


http://www.pjappraisals.com/CustomPage

 

---

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Kathleen bryce
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 11:01 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com; buzz forum
Subject: [WinTOTAL Group] What is the Legal Description

This may be mostly a Florida question but...

 

I am doing a lot of reviews and have always utilized the legal description in short form as published by the County Property Appraiser if the subjects lot was platted or the long legal when the legal is meets and bounds.

But, in some reviews I am seeing an alternate shortened version of the legal description and I am wondering if the following is Kosher, or should be commented on.

Example:
Lee County Property Appraiser as published on Property Card.
CAPE CORAL UNIT 47 PT 2 BLK 3540 PB 23 PG 117 LOTS XX + YY

Legal Description on deed.
Lots XX and YY, Block 3540, UNIT 47, CAPE CORAL, according to the plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 23, Page 112 through 127, of the Public Records of Lee County, Florida.

Questioned Legal Description in report under review:
Lots XX+YY, BLK 3540, Cape Coral Unit 47 PT.2, PB 23 PG 117

This appears to be an abbreviation of the Legal on the Deed. No where in ANY county records or deeds have I found this abbreviation. Would this be considered a proper legal description because all the parts are there?

If not, why not?  What do you think.

Kat Bryce
Fort Myers

Kathleen Bryce
Lee County Appraisals
St.Cert.Res REA RD4424
http://www.leecountyappraisals.com
appraiserkat@...
239-940-2225
fax 239-275-4130

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
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Paul James RAA

3906 Buena Vista Ave

Farmington, NM 87401
paul@...
phone 505-325-6651
fax 505-327-7168

for more information about me, see my web page: www.pjappraisals.com

for information about my Pocket Laser Targets go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2nv5sh


http://www.pjappraisals.com/CustomPage

----- Original Message -----

From: Paul James

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 12:50 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

Greg

Yes, but you have that cushy government job, don't you?

I drive a truck and do haul a ladder, but it compresses to a size that would fit in the trunk of a PINTO.

PJ

 

Paul James RAA

3906 Buena Vista Ave

Farmington, NM 87401
paul@...
phone 505-325-6651
fax 505-327-7168

for more information about me, see my web page: www.pjappraisals.com

for information about my Pocket Laser Targets go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2nv5sh


http://www.pjappraisals.com/CustomPage

 

---

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Greg Klingler
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 10:43 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

Liz,

 

I drive both a Riviera and a Sebring convertible and I don’t haul no stinkin’ ladders either!   

 

Greg in Glens Falls

 

---

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Liz Buchanan
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 12:40 PM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

 

Thank you to everyone who responded here.  I was trying to talk myself into believing that since the house was relatively new construction that I didn’t have to worry about absent insulation, frayed wiring, etc.  The reason I didn’t forewarn the guy is the same reason I didn’t want to have to go back; he’s very hard to reach by phone.  It is good practice to give the homeowner a little warning, and it was my fault when I got there and couldn’t get near the attic.  Before the original appt, I had left messages for the man at his work, home and mobile numbers. He had not called back, and later claims he “doesn’t know how” to work his voice mail and doesn’t like to be “too available” by answering his calls regularly. (Yeah, I bet his employer loves that one.) Anyway, when I finally talked to the man the first time, I was so shocked that he answered I didn’t think to give him the full spiel about what to expect.  Of course when I convinced myself that I had to go back (thank you all again for saying “DUH, YES”) I dreaded that run-around. As expected, I just about wore out the re-dial button calling him before I reached the man.  When I did, I apologized profusely and he was perfectly nice and told me he’d meet me at the house in half an hour.  When I got there, he had the stuff moved and the attic stairs open.  All’s well; report is finished.

Can you imagine telling someone “I drive a Cadillac and don’t haul ladders”?

Liz Buchanan

 

Elizabeth L. Buchanan

Providing Value to the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Mailto:Liz@BuchananAppraisals.com

phone 228-864-9040; fax 228-864-2570

Order your appraisal online!  www.AppraisingTheCoast.com

 

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Michael Powers
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 8:32 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

Paul

I agree, I provide the ladder and always try to alert the homeowner about the need for access.  It’s a lot easier to give the homeowner some lead time than listen to the grumbling as they clean out the closet. 

I do know of a local appraiser/instructor whose idea of customer service is: I drive a Cadillac and don’t haul ladders so you better get one.  Maybe he benefits from AMC’s and less client contact.

 

Michael Powers

Omaha, NE

402-651-2020

Certified Appraiser NE/IA FHA

www.PowersRealEstateServices.com

No virus found in this incoming message.
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Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
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----- Original Message -----

From: Paul James

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 12:50 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

Greg

Yes, but you have that cushy government job, don't you?

I drive a truck and do haul a ladder, but it compresses to a size that would fit in the trunk of a PINTO.

PJ

 

Paul James RAA

3906 Buena Vista Ave

Farmington, NM 87401
paul@...
phone 505-325-6651
fax 505-327-7168

for more information about me, see my web page: www.pjappraisals.com

for information about my Pocket Laser Targets go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2nv5sh


http://www.pjappraisals.com/CustomPage

 

---

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Greg Klingler
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 10:43 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

Liz,

 

I drive both a Riviera and a Sebring convertible and I don’t haul no stinkin’ ladders either!   

 

Greg in Glens Falls

 

---

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Liz Buchanan
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 12:40 PM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

 

Thank you to everyone who responded here.  I was trying to talk myself into believing that since the house was relatively new construction that I didn’t have to worry about absent insulation, frayed wiring, etc.  The reason I didn’t forewarn the guy is the same reason I didn’t want to have to go back; he’s very hard to reach by phone.  It is good practice to give the homeowner a little warning, and it was my fault when I got there and couldn’t get near the attic.  Before the original appt, I had left messages for the man at his work, home and mobile numbers. He had not called back, and later claims he “doesn’t know how” to work his voice mail and doesn’t like to be “too available” by answering his calls regularly. (Yeah, I bet his employer loves that one.) Anyway, when I finally talked to the man the first time, I was so shocked that he answered I didn’t think to give him the full spiel about what to expect.  Of course when I convinced myself that I had to go back (thank you all again for saying “DUH, YES”) I dreaded that run-around. As expected, I just about wore out the re-dial button calling him before I reached the man.  When I did, I apologized profusely and he was perfectly nice and told me he’d meet me at the house in half an hour.  When I got there, he had the stuff moved and the attic stairs open.  All’s well; report is finished.

Can you imagine telling someone “I drive a Cadillac and don’t haul ladders”?

Liz Buchanan

 

Elizabeth L. Buchanan

Providing Value to the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Mailto:Liz@BuchananAppraisals.com

phone 228-864-9040; fax 228-864-2570

Order your appraisal online!  www.AppraisingTheCoast.com

 

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Michael Powers
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 8:32 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

Paul

I agree, I provide the ladder and always try to alert the homeowner about the need for access.  It’s a lot easier to give the homeowner some lead time than listen to the grumbling as they clean out the closet. 

I do know of a local appraiser/instructor whose idea of customer service is: I drive a Cadillac and don’t haul ladders so you better get one.  Maybe he benefits from AMC’s and less client contact.

 

Michael Powers

Omaha, NE

402-651-2020

Certified Appraiser NE/IA FHA

www.PowersRealEstateServices.com

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 8.5.425 / Virus Database: 270.14.56/2491 - Release Date: 11/09/09 07:39:00

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 8.5.425 / Virus Database: 270.14.57/2492 - Release Date: 11/09/09 12:11:00

Paul James RAA

3906 Buena Vista Ave

Farmington, NM 87401
paul@...
phone 505-325-6651
fax 505-327-7168

for more information about me, see my web page: www.pjappraisals.com

for information about my Pocket Laser Targets go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2nv5sh


http://www.pjappraisals.com/CustomPage

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 8.5.425 / Virus Database: 270.14.57/2492 - Release Date: 11/09/09 12:11:00

Paul James RAA

3906 Buena Vista Ave

Farmington, NM 87401
paul@...
phone 505-325-6651
fax 505-327-7168

for more information about me, see my web page: www.pjappraisals.com

for information about my Pocket Laser Targets go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2nv5sh


http://www.pjappraisals.com/CustomPage

----- Original Message -----

From: Kathleen bryce

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 8:21 AM

Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic)

 

Thank you Liz...

 

Kathleen Bryce
Lee County Appraisals
St.Cert.Res REA RD4424
http://www.leecountyappraisals.com
appraiserkat@earthlink.net
239-940-2225
fax 239-275-4130

----- Original Message -----

From: Liz Buchanan

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 11:12 AM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic)

Kathleen that is simply stunning! Your area, like mine, doesn’t have the fall foliage that other parts of the country experience, but we make up for it in other flora and fauna.  I may just have to make your kapok tree my wallpaper for a while.

Liz

Elizabeth L. Buchanan

Providing Value to the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Mailto:Liz@BuchananAppraisals.com

phone 228-864-9040; fax 228-864-2570

Order your appraisal online!  www.AppraisingTheCoast.com

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Kathleen bryce
Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 8:04 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic) [2 Attachments]

[Attachment(s) from Kathleen bryce included below]

I'm not a wildlife photographer, nor do I shoot race cars flying down the track, but every year I pick the nicest day to take the attached.  I have no idea what kind of tree it is, I think it is a kapok.  This tree is located along historic McGregor Blvd.  McGregor is lined with Royal Palms planted by Thomas Edison and is often featured on local post cards. 

Taken with my Kodak V570 which is not a crisp as it used to be.

Kathleen Bryce
Lee County Appraisals
St.Cert.Res REA RD4424
http://www.leecountyappraisals.com
appraiserkat@earthlink.net
239-940-2225
fax 239-275-4130

----- Original Message -----

From: Lee

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 6:49 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic)

Guess who Floyd calls for advice?

Feel free to call me.

Leland Hill

Certified General Real Estate Appraiser

Associate Member, Appraisal Institute

(714) 897-3334

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Denny Daniels
Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 10:11 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic)

 

I was hoping I could get Floyd Tillery's phone number so I could ask him some questions about wildlife photography and which lense I should buy. I have purchased a Sony Digital SLR. It came with a 200 zoom lense, but here in the desert it just does not seem to be enough. Thanks in advance for any input. 

Dennis E. Daniels
Licensed Residential Real Estate Appraiser
ApprAZit LLC
PO Box 1122
Marana, AZ 85653
Phone : 520-403-5151
Fax     : 520-886-2988

Attachment(s) from Kathleen bryce

2 of 2 Photo(s)

100_1599.JPG

DCP_3324.JPG

----- Original Message -----

From: Liz Buchanan

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 11:12 AM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic)

Kathleen that is simply stunning! Your area, like mine, doesn’t have the fall foliage that other parts of the country experience, but we make up for it in other flora and fauna.  I may just have to make your kapok tree my wallpaper for a while.

Liz

 

Elizabeth L. Buchanan

Providing Value to the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Mailto:Liz@...

phone 228-864-9040; fax 228-864-2570

Order your appraisal online!  www.AppraisingTheCoast.com

 

 

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Kathleen bryce
Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 8:04 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic) [2 Attachments]

 

[Attachment(s) from Kathleen bryce included below]

I'm not a wildlife photographer, nor do I shoot race cars flying down the track, but every year I pick the nicest day to take the attached.  I have no idea what kind of tree it is, I think it is a kapok.  This tree is located along historic McGregor Blvd.  McGregor is lined with Royal Palms planted by Thomas Edison and is often featured on local post cards. 

 

Taken with my Kodak V570 which is not a crisp as it used to be.

 

 

Kathleen Bryce
Lee County Appraisals
St.Cert.Res REA RD4424
http://www.leecountyappraisals.com
appraiserkat@...
239-940-2225
fax 239-275-4130

----- Original Message -----

From: Lee

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 6:49 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic)

 

Guess who Floyd calls for advice?

Feel free to call me.

 

Leland Hill

Certified General Real Estate Appraiser

Associate Member, Appraisal Institute

(714) 897-3334

 

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Denny Daniels
Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 10:11 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [WinTOTAL Group] Lenses for wildlife photography (Off topic)

 

 

I was hoping I could get Floyd Tillery's phone number so I could ask him some questions about wildlife photography and which lense I should buy. I have purchased a Sony Digital SLR. It came with a 200 zoom lense, but here in the desert it just does not seem to be enough. Thanks in advance for any input. 

 

Dennis E. Daniels
Licensed Residential Real Estate Appraiser
ApprAZit LLC
PO Box 1122
Marana, AZ 85653
Phone : 520-403-5151
Fax     : 520-886-2988

 

 

Attachment(s) from Kathleen bryce

2 of 2 Photo(s)

100_1599.JPG

DCP_3324.JPG

----- Original Message -----

From: Michael Powers

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Sunday, November 08, 2009 2:10 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

I’ve been lurking on this thread waiting for someone to confirm what I thought which is the requirement is a head and shoulders inspection.  While I always take at least one photo I was under the impression this was not required but more something to assure the reader of the report and a CYA the attic inspection was completed. 

Here’s a snagit of the 4150.2. Did I miss an update.

Michael Powers

Omaha, NE

402-651-2020

Certified Appraiser NE/IA FHA

www.PowersRealEstateServices.com

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Kathleen bryce
Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 7:45 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

This is a awesome idea for getting the picture, unfortunately this does not comply with FHA guidelines.  FHA states that the attic and any crawl spaces must be inspected by head and shoulders.  The photograph is a client requirement, not FHA's.  So taking such a picture may satisfy the clients requirements but does not comply with FHA's guidelines.

Truth be told most of us would be tempted to just snap the picture and move on.  I just want to make sure that those less experienced know the liability of not doing a complete inspection.

I haven't completed an FHA inspection in so long and it is because I charge too much.  If I have to climb ladders and crawl into crawl spaces, someone has to pay...

Kathleen Bryce
Lee County Appraisals
St.Cert.Res REA RD4424
http://www.leecountyappraisals.com
appraiserkat@earthlink.net
239-940-2225
fax 239-275-4130

----- Original Message -----

From: Craig Holdiman

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 3:42 PM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

Good idea! 

Thanks, Bruce.

Craig Holdiman

Valuations for the Cedar Valley of Iowa

319-236-2942-office

319-234-8011-fax

holdiman1@mchsi.com

www.holdimanappraisals.com

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Cycad Center
Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 2:32 PM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

Liz.

I always carry a monopod for my camera in the car for situations like this.

I have a four section one which extends out abt 4ft,  attach it to your camera, set it on a 10 sec delay, poke the camera in the attic and wait for the flash,  I generally take abt 4 photos so you can get a good idea of whats up there.

Bruce

Fallbrook  CA

----- Original Message -----

From: Liz Buchanan

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Thursday, November 05, 2009 7:48 AM

Subject: [WinTOTAL Group] FHA Attic photo exceptions?

 

I need some input from the group, please.  It seems I remember hearing about an exception to the attic photo rule for FHA. Maybe it's wishful thinking. 

At the subject property, the attic access is in the garage, a traditional pull-down stair. When I opened the door from the house to the garage, my foot hit a giant box of STUFF.  As far into the garage as I could see was more STUFF.  I can see the drop-stair panel in the ceiling.  Maybe a long-legged strong-balanced person could pick their way through the STUFF to get there, but there's no space to place the bottom of the fold-out ladder.  Here's what I found in 4150.2

To perform this analysis, the appraiser must have full access to all property improvements. If unable to visually evaluate the improvements in their entirety, contact the lender and reschedule a time when a complete visual inspection can be performed. This includes access to the crawl space and attic. The appraiser is not required to disturb insulation, move personal items, furniture, equipment, plant life, soil, snow, ice or debris that obstructs access or visibility.

Now let me tell you about the house.  It was rebuilt after the storm, so it's got a new roof, new insulation.  I can see the roof turban vents rotating to I can say it's ventilated.  The owner is with the city police/fire/rescue unit and we chatted about fires (before I saw that I could not inspect the attic) and I think he would have mentioned having had one.  I feel confident that there are no attic problems, but will not sign a report saying I saw it when I didn't.  What say you? Do I have to make the guy clean out a path in the garage to I can take that photo or is there an exception to the FHA rule for relatively new, good quality construction combined with chatty homeowners?

Liz, not wanting to go back to Eagle Point today for one photo

Elizabeth L. Buchanan

Providing Value to the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Mailto:Liz@BuchananAppraisals.com

phone 228-864-9040; fax 228-864-2570

Order your appraisal online!  www.AppraisingTheCoast.com

---

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 8.5.425 / Virus Database: 270.14.55/2489 - Release Date: 11/08/09 07:37:00

This is very long so be warned in advance.  Some may benefit but for camera
knowledgeable readers you may want to pass.

I have to say looking at the video links both cameras are very impressive,
totally awesome, etc.

Since I don't typically film underwater and come from the old film days when
cameras had to be in special boxes to survive underwater I look for cheap (low
cost not cheaply made), easy to use out of the box, & reasonably able to
withstand "my" normal use which typically does not mean drops to concrete,
launching the camera in the car, etc.  My first foray from my old Canon metal
body SLR into the digital world was the, now old, Olympus D-510.  2megapixel, 3x
optical, 3x digital, view finder lens, pop up flash, etc.  Very basic & other
than setting the display to 1024 x 768 no other settings were done.  It fitted
into a small case made with 1/2 of an eyeglass case, to protect the screen as it
had no hard surface, with a felt liner in a small, my Mom's, makeup bag & then
into my pocket, slacks not genes.  I wore out 2 of these at $250 & $200 on sale
when purchased early in the model life cycle.  When the last one began to die
about a year ago I found another Olympus, FE-370, on sale for $129 at
Microcenter in Tustin, CA.  8megapixel, 5x optical, 3x digital much smaller,
more features I still don't use beyond limiting the size to the minimum
2megapixel size with still much larger files than needed.  This time I fell prey
to the goofy syndrome & left the camera on the passenger seat between to close
by comps.  Yes I launched it.  The first physical damage to a camera since I was
a kid and left my first Baby Brownie camera in the rear window during the summer
of my 7th year.  This model has one sensitive corner to damage the display &
Murphy was wide awake.  Any other landing and there would have been no damage. 
The west coast Olympus service center is about 8 miles away so I went there. 
None warranty damage as I had killed it.  A replacement was available for $100
though & I got to keep everything but the body as in battery, I had intended to
get a backup anyway at the cost of $30, charger for one in the office & one
plugged into my 25W inverter in the car, & the adapter device for an XD card so
I now have 2 in case one breaks, they are plastic.  I was also able to
"trade-in" one of my old broken D-510s for another backup FE camera for the same
$100.  The replacement & backup copies were obtained about 8 months ago and
checking online that model is still being marketed at $120 to $330.  8 months
ago the retail was still $170.  I could also "trade-in" my other dead D-510 for
their 10megapixel 26x optical model, at that time, for $130.  It now sells for
$270 to over $400.  I did not get that as it would not comfortably fit in my
pocket but it does have a very impressive zoom range of 26 to 676mm which would
be great for the wildlife shots spoken of earlier.  My criteria, which will
likely differ from many, is for a good quality glass lens, maximum zoom
capability, reasonably small file size ability & reasonably rugged so long as I
don't have another dumb moment, I even have a small pocket setup in my console
to put the camera in when driving but just did not use it.  When it comes to
rain I work in Southern California where rain is seldom an issue but when it is
I have a plastic cover I made for each of my cameras leaving on the lens opening
exposed.  I try to avoid the field part during the rain anyway as we generally
have only 1 or 2 days at a time where it may be an issue in my area.  Returning
to the megapixels briefly.  I have a closeup picture of a rose taken with my old
D-510 2megapixel camera set to the middle, 1024 x 768, range.  With that picture
displayed on a 21in tube type IBM graphics monitor I can see the veins in the
petals of the rose.  8megapixels is reputed to be just above the quality of a
35mm film photo.  If 2megapixels on step 3 of 6 steps of resolution can display
the veins of a rose what more do I need for my appraisal pictures.  The zoom
part I use for distant shots of comp features not clearly visible from the
street or from where I can legally take the picture without going on private
property.  I don't have long tree lined private driveways with dogs and/or guns
at the end typically in my area but I do have hillside homes which can be very
difficult to see from their access street but at time are visible from across
the canyon.  At times a distant shot will reveal information not seen from the
street.  Google & Bing are handy but dated & may not reveal, or may confirm,
"recent" changes not revealed by the Agent.  As with most of the electronic
items today we can obtain much more "quality" than we need to do the job for
under $200 in a camera & with a trade-in, depending on the make of your old
camera, perhaps under $100.  They are a commodity today.  With a 2gig card I can
take almost 4,000 photos using the 2megapixel setting.  Enough for the biggest &
most complex assignment with room to spare.

For those of you who have read this I hope it helps at least a bit in your
decisions regarding the camera of your choice.  Remember the biggest, fastest,
most expensive, camera, computer, monitor, etc. of today is just the commodity
of tomorrow.  The best parts of buying the commodity items is they are much less
expensive, still do a great job, most of the bugs have been worked out & it just
doesn't hurt as much if they are lost, stolen or broken.

For those of you who want the biggest, fastest, etc. I would like to thank you
for supporting the market & giving me the great commodity items available today.

James SoCal
Belmont Shore, CA

--- In Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com, "srsketch" <rgarrett@...> wrote:
>
>
> Caryn,
>
>
>
> OK, you asked for it (old, forum joke on me, LOL), so here is my
> response.  The info you wanted is somewhere buried below.  Happy
> hunting... ;-)  [Edit - Ok, I took pity on you and highlighted the
> answer to what I think was the gist of your question.]  The rest is my
> "supporting argument."
> .... clipped for size.

----- Original Message -----

From: Lee

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 10:28 AM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Proteck Hold Harmless

 

Rick:

I’m not sure of the name of the AMC, but I’ll try to find out. But as Juan said, the AMC did not sue the appraiser. They simply had their lawyer send the appraiser with a demand letter for payment. If you get such a letter, you’re likely going to need to hire a lawyer to help you try and get out of the agreement. Of course that will cost serious $$$$ too.  

Not that it matters much what the name of the AMC is. Any AMC that has you sign a HHA or indemnity clause does it for one reason and one reason only – to protect their own behinds by handing off ALL of the risk to the appraiser! That should be your warning sign! If you sign one, and the AMC ever gets sued, you can pretty much count on them coming after you for coverage of their legal costs.  

Leland Hill

Certified General Real Estate Appraiser

Associate Member, Appraisal Institute

(714) 897-3334

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of CAAppraiser
Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 5:02 PM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Proteck Hold Harmless

 

Lee:

What is the name of the AMC that is suing the appraiser. It would be good to know this AMC’s name, so other appraisers can decide if they want to continue to work for this AMC. I don’t think appraisers will continue to work for AMC’s that sue appraisers.

Rick

Granite Bay, CA

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Lee
Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 3:48 PM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Proteck Hold Harmless

 

Greg:

You don’t think AMC’s can get sued?

Think again!

Some are already being sued. Let’s say they pick Joe Schmo from 75 miles away to complete an appraisal on a custom home near the California coast. Dumb appraiser is geographically incompetent. And he appraises the house $40,000 under the agreed purchase price. The buyer has to come in with $40,00 extra cash to close the deal or he loses his house. So buyer does just that. But he’s P.O. and after closing he sues the appraiser AND the AMC ! Not only for the extra $40,000 he had to come out of pocket for, but also emotional distress!

The appraiser’s E&O is likely going to settle this one because litigation is going to be expensive. But here’s the kicker. The appraiser is getting nailed for the retainer fee and any other legal fees the AMC is paying because he signed the HHA. He might, just maybe get out of it, but he now has to HIRE his own lawyer to defend him on this, because his E&O will NOT cover it.

Real case, right here in good ol’ California.

So how do you all feel about signing HHA’s???  

Leland Hill

Certified General Real Estate Appraiser

Associate Member, Appraisal Institute

(714) 897-3334

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Greg Klingler
Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 9:33 AM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Proteck Hold Harmless

 

Okay, really STUPID IGNORANT question here BUT...

What liability would an AMC have?  Aren’t they only a “matching or brokering service” between lender and appraiser – a conduit for order and delivery of a service?  If so, what could / would they do to cause harm that would make them liable for anything?

Greg in Glens Falls

---

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Juan Restrepo
Sent: Friday, November 06, 2009 12:16 PM
To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [WinTOTAL Group] Proteck Hold Harmless

 

ProTeck Valuation Services decided to get fired.  Here is what they wanted me to agree with, which I won't.

8.       Insurance/Indemnity.  Vendor agrees to carry General Liability and Errors and Omissions insurance at levels that are customary in the industry.  To the extent that Vendor uses a vehicle in the delivery of the Services, Vendor shall carry automobile liability coverage in amounts that are customary in the industry.  Vendor agrees to indemnify and hold Pro-Teck harmless from any and all liabilities, losses, or damages including reasonable attorney's fees incurred by Pro-Teck as a result of claims, demands, lawsuits or judgments arising from or in connection with Vendor’s performance under this Agreement.

If anyone in this group is doing work for them, you may want to check with your liability insurance to see the repercussions of agreeing with something like this.

Juan Restrepo
Chandler, AZ

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 8.5.425 / Virus Database: 270.14.49/2480 - Release Date: 11/06/09 07:38:00

I was just given an order for several newly erected HUD homes and told FHA no
longer allows the same/original appraiser to complete the Form 92051. Did I miss
something or is she mis-informed?!?

1) Can the same appraiser complete?
2) Can a different appraiser complete and, if so, how much of the original
appraisal file is required? (It would seem that items 2,10,12,13 and 14 would
all require some foreknowledge of the construction terms so it makes me wonder
why the original appraiser wouldn't be preferred).

I have a CIR that I'll be going out to do on Tuesday so I'm now concerned either
way. Thanks.

Brent
On Call
Maine

Last post on this - promise... ;-)

Here is a link to a decent video clip shot with the GF1.  I like this one because it has such a wide variety of venues/conditions.  Well, I missed the underwater part, LOL.  (Just kidding - this one will not tolerate water!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_EeQ19ciw4

In any case, I hope these past few posts help illustrate what I mean by "credible job"...

-Randall Garrett-

..Apex Software..

/end/

All,

In my previous post, I wrote something which does not read as intended.  I meant to say that the compact cameras we've been discussing do a credible job of doing HD video but their smaller, "darker" lenses/sensors mean that they simply cannot do what devices like the m4/3 devices with their bigger, "brighter" lenses/sensors can do.  Upon reading my own post, I don't think that came across correctly - my mistake.

But the proof is in the pudding, so here is a YouTube link to the first TS1 video clip I found via a quick Google search.  It is not the best, per se - just the first one that popped up...  Fortunately, it is shot in a hot tub (sorry, no flesh - at least not the kind that some of you were thinking, LOL) so you'll see it work underwater.  I think all us us have better hot tubs than this poor soul, right?  ;-)

I like this sort of amateur video because it better represents what we typically are capable of achieving than what a professional reviewer can do with one arm tied behind their back.  Also, this one was shot indoors and subject to less than ideal lighting conditions - dark areas, sunlight streaming in (blooming), etc.  If you have a decent broadband connection, be sure to select the HD button and go full screen... 

TS1 video sample:  http://tinyurl.com/yzbw9yc

And to compare, here is a link to the Google search page for the DMC-GF1 video samples.  There is a mix here - professional reviewer work and amateur stuff.  The only one I watched was the quartet thing...  Again, be sure to use HD and full screen if you can.

GF1 video sample page:  http://tinyurl.com/yd5x3uw

Hope this helps!

-Randall Garrett-

..Apex Software..

/end/

Lee, 

Agreed on the 28mm being the minimum I would prefer/recommend for appraisers/inspectors.  If I am less concerned by potential drop/weather damage, I go for the 24mm/25mm units, similar to the one you like, but I just (personally) prefer the Panasonics.  If, however, I am concerned about potential damage I'll live with "only" 28mm (equiv.) for the peace of mind...  Per my prior epistle, I'd love to see (say) an m4/3 camera with a 24mm - 170mm, f2.0 pancake zoom with built-in viewfinder, pop-up bounce flash, etc.  Oh, and as long as I am dreaming, make it waterproof and drop proof (vs. rugged - I want the device to keep ME from doing the dropping in the first place, LOL) and let's shoot for...  oh, how about $399?  Wait!  If I hunt around, maybe I can find it on sale...  We're never satisfied!  ;-)  -Randy-

Charles,

FWIW, a lot of folks today are questioning the "BB4TBism" of buying a dedicated camcorder.  Some of the better "still" cameras do a credible job of doing Hi-Def video and none of the consumer (read: affordable) camcorders make a still worth a darn.  ALL consumer camcorders have crap for lenses when "wide angle" is a factor...  Ever notice they all seem to advertize 2 million X zoom (j/k), but when you try to take a video of (say) a family gathering, you have to go to the far side of the Family Room in order to get half the group milling about the kitchen?  Like in appraisal work, I typically have far more use for a decent wide angle than I do for something for zooming in on Mount Rainier without even leaving my front porch out in the sticks in TX...  I'm not much for carrying adaptors, either - the lenses on a typical cheap camcorder are already bad enough without adding another element to degrade them.  I'm no pro, so I need all the help I can get, LOL - I'll pay a little more to gain convenience and quality...

The problem with most pocket cameras that shoot credible HD video (and there are a few - see links below) is that their lenses and sensors are compromised to allow their compact size and low price, hence their light gathering capabilities are not well suited for those "archival quality" video snaps we all do from time to time.  Shooting video for appraisal purposes is rarely something you'd need to back you up in case of litigation, but for the uses Lee describes, something like the TS1 works better than you might imagine.  But, let's face it - the videos and stills we shoot are all important to us, so we want the best quality video of little Jenny's first "whatever" or Grandma's last whatever.  In my experience, I have observed that the stills have more "staying power" when it comes to precious memories.  The videos are great to have, but if I had to pick only one to keep, I find that a still seems to capture a moment far better than a video unless it is America's Funniest Home Videos material... ;-)  Just something to think on.  Everyone has their own individual "hot buttons" for what factors are most important to them (at the moment, LOL) so as usual, YMMV on all/most of this stuff... 

In my earlier post, I was trying to stick to the "mostly work-related" end of things.  I understand, though, that many of us want that all-in-one perfect device that'll do it all - and, of course, we want to write it off as a business expense, LOL.  Anyway, if you are willing to pay a few dollars more, there are "still" cameras which are priced around the same bracket as some of the camcorders mentioned in other posts here, which offer some things which may make a difference to you.

For instance, the Olympus Pen E-P1 and the Panasonic DMC-GF1 are not much larger than (say) yesterday's pocket camera.  They do excellent stills and very good Hi-Def video - arguably better than many sub-$1K camcorders.  (Note: "Hi-Def" for these cameras is 720p, not 1080p.  If you must have 1080p, you'll need to go to a much larger/heavier & expensive full bodied DSLR or with just about any "enthusiast" level camcorder.)  The "secret" to the image quality is that these cameras have MUCH larger sensors and infinitely better lenses - which are interchangeable, BTW... :-)  I am talking about the new Micro Four Thirds class of cameras.  For those who are unfamiliar with what I am mentioning, here is a blurb, slightly reworded which I shamelessly ganked off a description written by someone far more knowledgeable than me on this:

---------------------------

Jointly announced by Olympus and Panasonic in August 2008, this new mirror-less format / lens mount uses a traditional Four Thirds sensor size (18 x 13.5 mm) but allows for smaller DSLR cameras by removing the mirror box and optical viewfinder. The three key technical differences are:

• approximately half the flange back distance,
• a smaller diameter lens mount, and
• two additional contact points for lens-to-body communication.

Removing the mirror mechanism means that lenses for the new mount can be considerably smaller than current Four Thirds designs. The format requires framing via Live View on either the LCD monitor or an EVF. Existing Four Thirds lenses can be used on Micro Four Thirds cameras using an adapter.

Link to DSLR vs. m4/3rds comparison image: http://tinyurl.com/ya7lntp

---------------------------

If this sort of thing intrigues anyone, I strongly recommend checking out the review links posted below.  I'm posting two links for each camera - first to the beginning of the review for those who want to slog through all the technical stuff, and the second for a direct link to the sample stills and video.

(Note to those wanting to navigate the reviews - the page control is a list box, or "drop down" that sort of hidden at the top of the review, just above the device's "Hero Shot.")

Olympus Pen E-P1 Review:  http://tinyurl.com/nx7kp7  (37 page detailed) 

Direct link to STILL samples:  http://tinyurl.com/ycsy27y 

Direct link to video samples: http://tinyurl.com/yaq5l6f

Hope this helps!

-Randall Garrett-

..Apex Software..

/end/

--- In Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com, "Charles Baker" <mail@...> wrote:
Good stuff. Gotta question . . . I'm looking at a HiDef camcorder that
shoots stills as well for under $700. None are "wide angle", though. You
can buy a wide-angle extender (0.6X ratio) however. Looking at the Sony
HDR-CX100. Samy's Camera has a special for $450 plus $50 for the extender.
No flash, hot shoe or mic input though. Any other suggestions. 


-Charles

Liz,

Thanks for the friendly poke...  Not sure I'm "back" - I think I had just had a venti or something when a topic near and dear to me popped up.  It is amazing how easily I can get distracted from something I need to do when something I want to do seems to be just begging me on...  LOL  No worries about not needing a camera right now - when you do, something tells me that there will be something else out there...  ya think?  ;-)

-Randall Garrett-

..Apex Software..

--- In Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com, "Liz Buchanan" <lizbuchanan@...> wrote:

He's baaaacccckkk! Go get a fresh cup of
whatever-you-drink before settling in to digest a
Garrett Response. ;-)

Too bad I don't need a new camera right now. You've
totally sold me on the TS1. We've missed your epistles.

Liz

Elizabeth L. Buchanan

----- Original Message -----

From: Paul James

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 1:00 PM

Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] Camera du jour

 

Sarah

I use a Canon S80, which replaced my Canon S70. It is larger than the tiny cameras being discussed, but will fit in the front pocket of my blue jeans and it still has a viewfinder.

Until I decide to buy an SLR digital for non-appraisal work, this is my only camera other than my old Nikon film cameras.

PJ

Paul James
3906 Buena Vista Ave
Farmington, NM 87401
505-325-6651
paul@pjappraisals.com

 

 

----- Original Message -----

From: Sarah Vetault

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 12:53 PM

Subject: Re: [WinTOTAL Group] Camera du jour

Just got back from a two week trip to Mexico with my new camera - a Canon PowerShot S90.  Haven't used it for appraisal work yet, but so far I really like it.  The screen is huge and easy to read in most lighting conditions.  It's takes decent pictures in fully automatic mode.  You can customize most of the functions.  It has a manual mode.  And the camera takes GREAT low light photos.  I was shooting hand-held pictures of people around a campfire at night with no other light source and no flash.  The camera could see better than I could.  I'm thinking this is going to be a fantastic camera for taking interior shots of REO properties.

 

I picked the S90 because 1:  it was in stock locally (my old camera developed issues two days before the trip);  2: it has a 28mm wide angle; 3: it can shoot at a LOW 0.3 megapixel resolution as well as at 10 megapixels, and 4: it got rave reviews for its low light capability. 

 

Low resolution capability was important to me. I don't need high resolution photos when most everything is getting crammed onto a 6-photo addendum page.  The DP review specs say the S90 goes down to 320 x 240 but it only goes that low for video functions.  The lowest still photo resolution is 640 x 480, which is 0.3 megapixels.  Several other cameras I looked at would only go down to 1 or 2 megapixels, which is much bigger than I want most of the time.

 

Not sure how rugged the camera is over the long haul. I did bang it around quite a bit on the trip and it's still working fine. It uses an SD or SDHC card.  It's easy to pop the card in and out.  The battery charger is delightfully compact and I had no problem carrying it with me on the trip.   (The only luggage I took for the two week trip was a daypack. Compact was essential.)  I charged the battery three times during the 2 week trip.  Took about 400 photos over the two weeks, and kept the camera in playback mode for several hours which ate a lot of battery juice.  Battery consumption was acceptable.  The battery takes about two hours to charge fully.  I'd recommend a second battery.

 

The camera does take some operational getting used to.  It has a lot of different scene functions and also has a manual mode for custom settings.  Being an "I don't need no stinking manual" kind of person I left the user manual home, which meant that I didn't get the full use of all the scene-related functions for the trip.  The automatic setting took acceptable photos but it would have been better if I'd taken the time to tweak the scene settings. 

 

Many of the reviews complain about the flash that pops up in automatic mode.  This wasn't an issue for me because I figured out the optimal way to hold the camera so my hand wouldn't interfere with the flash, and because I discovered that I didn't NEED the flash most of the time.  I just left it turned off.

 

I haven't played with the video functions.  Max  video resolution is 640 x 480.

 

I got it for $429 at Best Buy.  It was in stock.  Randy's "best bang for the buck" cameras were not.  I was leaving in two days.  It was worth the $429.  It's early in the product cycle so the price may drop over the next few months.  It's worth checking out, especially if you take a lot of indoor shots with low light.

 

Sarah Vetault
Tucson, AZ
www.ComplineGroup.com

 

When making your choices in life, do not forget to live.  -Samuel Johnson

 

 

----- Original Message -----

From: Lee

To: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Saturday, November 07, 2009 9:28 AM

Subject: RE: [WinTOTAL Group] Camera du jour

 

Gotta love Randy for his eloquent, if not verbose posts. J

While 28mm might be acceptable for some, I really find cameras with 24mm wide angle so much better. I work in an urban jungle, and some of the backyards are pretty small and the difference between 24mm and 28mm can sometimes make the difference in the shot. And 24mm makes it so much easier to capture indoor shots.

Having said that, the Samsung HZ10W is not ruggedized, and if dropped on the ground, might not survive. But it’s only about $200, so if it breaks, so what? It’s not like I have a fortune invested in it.

And Randy is right, if the shot demands it, I’ll break out one of my pro bodies and use it. Then again, I took a recent trip to the San Diego Wild Animal Park with the family. Because I didn’t want to lug around a pro body I took my Samsung. I got some great shots. Would some of them been better with a pro camera? Without a doubt. Then again, I switched the camera to video mode (which is now available in some high end pro bodies too), and took a video of the gorillas feeding. And it turned out great.

Leland Hill

Certified General Real Estate Appraiser

Associate Member, Appraisal Institute

(714) 897-3334

From: Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Total2000UsersGroup@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of srsketch

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Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
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07:38:00