"At the outset we were answering some fairly basic questions but as lenders’ and brokers’ knowledge has improved, the questions are really starting to deep dive into some complex areas. "
- Stephen Todd, chief commercial officer and co-founder of VAS
VAS Valuation Group has launched new Knowledge Hub short educational videos with topics covering hope value, comparable sales evidence, and market value.
In total, five new videos have been launched with Stephen Todd, chief commercial officer and co-founder, answering the questions ‘What is a valuer conflict of interest and when might a lender not accept one?’ and ‘Hope value – what is it and why do some lenders not want a valuer to take it into account?’
He also addresses the definition of market value, and the difference between local and national sales evidence and when they apply.
Lastly, Stephen answers ‘For properties that have had planning permission and works completed, why do valuers state that lenders need to check building regulations have been signed off?’.
The Knowledge Hub library, which answers the most common questions posed about the valuation sector, now stands at over 30 videos.
The majority of questions have been submitted by brokers and lenders through VAS Valuation Group’s Contact Us page on their website and through their LinkedIn profile.
Stephen said: “It has been interesting to see the development of Knowledge Hub; at the outset we were answering some fairly basic questions but as lenders’ and brokers’ knowledge has improved, the questions are really starting to deep dive into some complex areas.
“It says to us is that the reason we launched Knowledge Hub — to expand the finance market’s understanding of valuations — has been embraced and we can see a level of improvement and understanding in the valuation requests we are receiving. This means more reports are right first time.
“The new batch of content lands at the perfect time, coinciding with an expected uptick in property transactions and construction activity in 2025. Brokers, lenders and valuers are only getting busier, and improving knowledge and understanding between all parties will undoubtedly lead to better outcomes.”