OpenHouse lets appraisers take social distancing measures while collecting property data
ACI, a subsidiary of First American, has launched OpenHouse, a valuation technology that enables appraisers to remotely collect property information.
Aside from enabling appraisers to gather property information from the safety of their home, OpenHouse also integrates the collected data directly into an appraisal report. The company said that technology permits desktop and exterior-only inspection in the appraisal process to support social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic.
“We see this as an opportunity to improve the appraisal workflow above and beyond the current climate,” said George Opelka, general manager at ACI. “ACI OpenHouse provides an avenue to gain valuable insights into the properties being appraised earlier, reducing the time it takes to manage the inspection process.”
Through the OpenHouse platform, homeowners can send photos of their properties and respond to a series of questions from appraisers. Once the inspection is complete, pertinent information is populated back into the platform, allowing appraisers to make fewer assumptions and create a more accurate report.
“Appraisers today face a unique challenge of supporting the health and safety of all involved in a real estate transaction while acquiring relevant property data to create credible appraisals,” said Alan Hummel, chief appraiser at First American Staff Appraisals. “ACI OpenHouse allows appraisers to collect the detailed, contemporaneous property information they need through an efficient, automated process for a safe, seamless experience for both the appraiser and inspection contact.”
