Dude.... this has been going on forever.
When you call the borrower to set up an inspection appointment, don't you take a couple minutes to find out about the property so you can select the appropriate comparables?
After introductions, stating who you are to set up the inspection, ask them if they have a few minutes for you to go over the details of their property. Most people are more than willing.... they want the loan.
Ma'am, public records shows your house has 1632 sq.ft. with three bedrooms and one and a half baths... does the sound about right?
"Yes it does"
Excellent! Have you done any modernization, upgrades or additions in the last 3 to 5 years?
"Yes, we had the ceilings scraped and smoothed, installed recessed lighting, and removed all the carpet and installed vinyl plank flooring throughout the entire house".
Wow, that sounds great! Must have made a huge difference.... how about the kitchen and baths? Any modernization or upgrading there?
"You sure ask a lot of questions, I've never had an appraiser ask this many questions before".
Yes ma'am, I want to make sure that I pick the most appropriate comparables in your neighborhood to ensure the most accurate valuation I can provide.
So on and so forth. You've got to finesse it for your benefit. Some people it's easy, some people it's like pulling teeth.
The main point is, you've got to know before you go. Even though I get the most detailed information I can from the borrower, I still bring sales that I believe are inferior and superior to the description I received. Some people over exaggerate and lie, while others are modest and conservative.
Also, in your fee schedule that you send to these AMC's, it should clearly state your cancellation or trip fees.... not just your appraisal fees.