Even if CoStar had all the details an appraiser required, would you not still independently verify that information? When looking for comps, all I'm interested in is a lead. I want to find the details out for myself - even if another appraiser provided them. I think many appraisers are becoming lazy and expect CoStar to provide a complete write-up. Maybe its the times, but not so long ago I remember calling broker after broker, going from courthouse to courthouse searching green sheets or deed indexes, pulling deeds and plats, assessors info, and searching phone directories for buyers and sellers to verify the data. Knowing a sale occurred and the contact information is a HUGE time saver.Especially when working in non-disclosure states, like Alabama or Mississippi.
That said, No one is more critical of CoStar than I. It is grossly overpriced, and the customer service is awful. I left one company and started my own. I got stuck paying two site licenses - for the same states! However, I do like some of the newer features, but like I said, I am not willing to give my right arm for what they have to offer.
But think about it, what would the cost be if CoStar provided all the details appraisers' needed for the transaction. Is that not where we show our worth; the ability to find and analyze comparable properties, whether sales or leases, in relation to the property being appraised? If all those details were available from a service such as CoStar, what would our fees be then? And again, think of the cost of that service.
