Looks like Fannie endorses the use of MLS or file photos for the comparables:
[url]https://www.efanniemae.com/sf/formsdocs/forms/1073.jsp[/URL]
Individual Condominium Unit Appraisal Report
This report form is designed to report an appraisal of a unit in a condominium project or a condominium unit in a planned unit development (PUD) based on an interior and exterior inspection of the subject property. This report form is not designed to report an appraisal of a manufactured home or a unit in a cooperative project.
Learn How to Use the New Market Conditions Addendum
Gain an understanding of and recognize the sources of market information necessary to analyze market conditions. Our new recorded training is organized to address the Market Conditions Addendum (Form 1004MC), effective April 1, 2009, section by section. Also review the FAQs for additional information about the form and other appraisal topics.
Modifications, Additions, or Deletions
This appraisal report is subject to the scope of work, intended use, intended user, definition of market value, statement of assumptions and limiting conditions, and certifications contained in the report form. Modifications, additions, or deletions to the intended use, intended user, definition of market value, or assumptions and limiting conditions are not permitted. The appraiser may expand the scope of work to include any additional research or analysis necessary based on the complexity of this appraisal assignment. Modifications or deletions to the certifications are also not permitted. However, additional certifications that do not constitute material alterations to this appraisal report, such as those required by law or those related to the appraiser's continuing education or membership in an appraisal organization are permitted.
Scope of Work
The scope of work for this appraisal is defined by the complexity of this appraisal assignment and the reporting requirements of this appraisal report form, including the following definition of market value, statement of assumptions and limiting conditions, and certifications. The appraiser must, at a minimum: (1) perform a complete visual inspection of the interior and exterior areas of the subject unit, (2) inspect and analyze the condominium project, (3) inspect the neighborhood, (4) inspect each of the comparable sales from at least the street, (5) research, verify, and analyze data from reliable public and/or private sources, and (6) report his or her analysis, opinions, and conclusions in this appraisal report.
New Projects
For units in new (or recently converted) condominium projects, the appraiser must compare the subject property to other properties in its general market area as well as to properties within the subject project. This comparison should help demonstrate market acceptance of new developments and the properties within them. Generally, the appraiser should select one comparable sale from the subject project, one comparable sale from outside the subject project, and one other comparable sale, which can be from inside or outside of the subject project, that the appraiser considers to be a good indicator of value for the subject property. In selecting the comparables, the appraiser should keep in mind that re-sales from within the subject project are preferable to sales from outside the project as long as the developer or builder of the subject property is not involved in the transactions.
Established Projects
For units in established condominium projects (those that have resale activity), the appraiser should use comparable sales from within the subject project if there are any available. Resale activity from within the subject project should be the best indicator of value for properties in that project. If the appraiser uses sales of comparable properties that are located outside of the subject neighborhood, he or she must include an explanation with the analysis.
Required Exhibits
- A street map that shows the location of the subject property and of all comparables that the appraiser used;
- A sketch of the subject unit that must indicate interior perimeter unit dimensions rather than exterior building dimensions. Generally, the appraiser must also include calculations to show how he or she arrived at the estimate for gross living area; however, for a unit in a condominium project, the appraiser may rely on the dimensions and estimate for gross living area that are shown on the plat. In such cases, the appraiser does not need to provide a sketch of the unit as long as he or she includes a copy of the plat with the appraisal report. A floor plan sketch that indicates the dimensions is required instead of the exterior building or unit sketch if the floor plan is atypical or functionally obsolete, thus limiting the market appeal for the property in comparison to competitive properties in the neighborhood;
- Clear, descriptive photographs (either in black and white or color) that show the front, back, and a street scene of the subject property, and that are appropriately identified. (Photographs must be originals that are produced either by photography or electronic imaging.);
- Clear, descriptive photographs (either in black and white or color) that show the front of each comparable sale and that are appropriately identified. (We do not require photographs of comparable rentals and listings.) Generally, photographs should be originals that are produced by photography or electronic imaging; however, copies of photographs from a multiple listing service or from the appraiser's files are acceptable if they are clear and descriptive;
- Any other data--as an attachment or addendum to the appraisal report form--that are necessary to provide an adequately supported opinion of market value.
