Your Bastrop home goes under contract—great news! But then the appraisal comes in low, threatening the deal. What now? Don’t panic. Low appraisals happen more than you think, even in a strong market. Here’s how to respond strategically.
Why Do Low Appraisals Happen?
- Appraisers use older comps with slower appreciation
- Lack of recent sales in your immediate area
- Home upgrades that weren’t factored in
- Inexperienced or out-of-area appraiser
3 Smart Ways to Handle a Low Appraisal
- Challenge the Appraisal
- Provide better comps from Bastrop MLS
- Highlight upgrades or lot advantages
- Submit a formal reconsideration of value (ROV) through the lender
- Renegotiate with the Buyer
- Split the difference
- Reduce the price slightly
- Ask the buyer to bring extra cash if they’re motivated
- Switch Lenders (Rare but Possible)
If the buyer is committed and timelines allow, they can switch lenders and get a new appraiser.
Bastrop Tip:
Low appraisals are more common in Tahitian Village, Circle D, and other custom home areas where comps vary widely. In The Colony, appraisals are usually more consistent due to uniform builds.
Final Thoughts
A low appraisal doesn’t mean your deal is dead. With the right agent and strategy, you can still close successfully—and protect your bottom line.
📉 Facing appraisal challenges? Let’s create a backup plan together.
