FHA And Tandem Bedrooms

[Amy Perkins]

I am an UW reviewing an FHA appraisal. There is a tandem bedroom and a tandem den (meaning the only access to the 3rd bedroom is through the through the 2nd bedroom and the only access to the den is through the 3rd bedroom). Does FHA allow this? I cannot find anything in the handbook.

You sure this isn't just a master suite?

 

[Restrain]

Back on topic, have seen these over the years. What I found easiest was to describe the bedrooms that have additional rooms accessible only through a bedroom as accessary rooms to the bedrooms (sitting rooms, etc). In older rooms built 'back in the day' privacy wasn't as high especially in lower income groups. My cousins (boy, two girls) shared a bedroom until they left home. Accessing one bedroom through another was not unusual. Today, that is considered a functionality issue.

The appraiser should describe the issue, not call the second rooms as bedrooms (today's recognition of the functionality issue) and analyze the impact. Rejection is not necessary as the home would still be acceptable but the valuation would be impacted.

 

[nicholz12]

I didn't know you wanted to join the conversation Mr. Helper. Contrary to your statement, I can actually follow more than one thread at a time and the OP did in fact state that they're not only an underwriter but also a reviewer for OVER 30 yrs. I find it interesting that someone with such tenure performing these functions has the need to keep coming to a group of appraisers for conformation on how to address underwriting functions.

You have a good point.

 

[nicholz12]

I see this a lot, especially in big cities. Discuss the impact on value.

 

[Tom D]

I didn't know you wanted to join the conversation Mr. Helper.

just tooo funny. " mr helper'' might apply to the half who agree with you, or is it the half who disagree. mr helper appraisal services. it's that a violation of "air".