Appraisal review performed from the report and available data rather than a new field inspection.
A desk review is an appraisal review performed from the report and available data rather than a new field inspection.
Desk review matters because a lender may need more confidence in a completed appraisal without ordering a full new appraisal or sending another reviewer to the property.
The review may focus on whether comparable sales, adjustments, value reconciliation, and report comments are reasonable and internally consistent for the mortgage file.
Borrowers may encounter desk-review language after the appraisal report is delivered but before the value is fully accepted by underwriting.
The term becomes practical when the file is delayed for collateral review, when a value concern appears, or when the lender wants a second look at the report.
| Review type | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Appraisal Review | Broad lender-side review category |
| Desk review | Review from report and data, usually without a new property visit |
| Field Review | Review that may involve an outside inspection or more direct market check |
| Reconsideration of Value | Request to revisit the value conclusion after concerns arise |
A lender receives an appraisal with a value that appears high compared with nearby sales. A desk reviewer examines the report, comparable sales, and adjustment logic without visiting the property.
Desk review differs from Field Review because a field review can involve a new external inspection or more direct property-market check.
It differs from Appraisal Review because appraisal review is the broader category, while desk review is one method.
It also differs from Appraisal Waiver because a waiver means a traditional appraisal report was not required in the first place.