SFREP - Appraise-it Software is AWESOME!

[spittman]

Pricing

Do you have more information about the pricing than what's on the website? I've tried contacting them a few times with no luck.

The last time I upgraded all we had to do was pay for an access code and download the new version (a discount was given for returning users). Now I've noticed that there is an indefinite monthly subscription to use the new software. Is this the only option now? I just want to pay for it and be done with it!

Is this comparable to other vendors??? I've also been using Appraise-It since I started, over 10 years now and I would really hate to change and start getting used to a different software.

 

[Pat Butler]

I'd be concerned if their sales dept isn't returning phone calls. How's their tech support?

 

[spittman]

I don't ever recall having to need tech support. The times that it has crashed, there was always an instant backup that automatically opens up when i restart the program. Even during a power surge.

I only contacted their sales department via email. I should probably call them next before I start shopping around.

 

[JSmith43]

I fear, however, that it is the UAD itself that sucks and it isn't a particular program. Do other appraisal software suites have a "UAD Bar" taking up 25% of the screen?

Not 25%. Some implementations allow the user to click a button to turn UAD helpers/error safeguards on and off. Consider it a power user option of NCV, since "button on" is more foolproof.

The UAD implementation is different for NCV and Total 2011, and both are nicely executed, IMO. But, there are so many different personal styles and tactile memory probably varies from person to person. There is no substitute for a personal test. Make the time.

IMO, all appraisal related business is so unpredictable & unstable right now, that as little GSE volume as I am doing, I still decided to research the option of having familiarity with more than one software solution. If I get the time and opportunity I may try the Bradford solution, but I'll probably just talk to a friend that is a long time user after he has submitted a month or two of these UAD reports & received feedback.

My current view is that it is too darned complicated to use a poll to gather & summarize experiences.

 

[AnonApprsr]

Sammy, I had the same concern you have. I think it's absolutely crappy that you can't buy the software anymore. You can only buy a monthly license to use the software. The software checks with their server every 15 days to make sure you're paid up. If you're not it reverts back to demo version. That's why I kept all the set-up files from 7.9 (the 1004MC update) so I could always at least create normal appraisals even if I didn't have SFREP paid for the month. It's a stupid system but more and more software is going that way.

 

[Flakey]

There is an issue with SFREP/WCA that the vaues in several UAD fields can be changed with the scroll wheel after the vaue has been "set". They are aware of it but don't seem overly concerned. I emailed them twice and both times suggested they at least advise their users. I have received two stips directly related to errors caused by this that I didn't catch. The extra time now necessary to scrutinize all of the UAD fields for changed values just adds to the tedium. It sounds real lame to tell your client it was the software. Kinda like blaming your homework on the dog.

 

[residentialguy]

There is an issue with SFREP/WCA that the vaues in several UAD fields can be changed with the scroll wheel after the vaue has been "set". They are aware of it but don't seem overly concerned. I emailed them twice and both times suggested they at least advise their users. I have received two stips directly related to errors caused by this that I didn't catch. The extra time now necessary to scrutinize all of the UAD fields for changed values just adds to the tedium. It sounds real lame to tell your client it was the software. Kinda like blaming your homework on the dog.

I haven't found that to be an "issue" with me. I think that is done on purpose for those who would rather scroll to the correct answer, rather than to click on it.

They should have it so the scroll option disables when you hit "apply". Maybe they will make the scroll feature an option that you can turn off

 

[residentialguy]

Do other appraisal software suites have a "UAD Bar" taking up 25% of the screen?

Let me guess. You don't have a wide screen.

 

[residentialguy]

Here is a screen shot of the software. You can move the UAD help to the left or right side, or free float it.

 

[AnonApprsr]

I have a "flat screen" but yes it isn't wide.