Sue Horowitz

• Manage |RSSCommercial Real Estate Group

The operative phrase in the appraisal discussion appears to be 'undue pressure' that may influence the appraiser/appraisal. Yet, an appraiser is reliant upon relevant, accurate, and complete information in order to render a valid appraisal (". . .[an] informed judgment regarding the value of [a] specific propert[y]"). In this regard, I have in the past been requested to supply data to an appraiser. My role has been simply and purely to supply data/information/facts /statistics. The appraiser is ultimately responsible for evaluating the data and applying it as he/she deems professionally appropriate. This additional information that the appraiser may otherwise have been unaware of can be invaluable in contributing to the final goal of a complete, informed, unbiased appraisal.

As a commercial real estate broker [in So. Cal.] whose expertise is special use properties with one point of focus on academic facilities, I have extensive experience (20+ yrs) and have transacted numerous deals for family day care centers. Most family day care centers in this area are situated in SFR, but residents of condos and apartments also seek to provide family day care to fulfill a need of the community. In 1999, the City Planning Commission in Los Angeles conducted a public hearing to amend the municipal code to "permit family day-care homes in any dwelling unit in any zone that permits dwelling units, so-long as the provider complies with all State licensing rules and regulations". It is stated in the case documentation that "This action . . . encourages the provision of a critically important service that residents of multiple-family residential neighborhoods need, and improves their acces to this service." Moreover, today's strong trend towards mixed-use properties underscores the significance of this topic. Notwithstanding Janet's column or any of my foregoing comments, the caveat remains [as Janet so well articulated] that the provider must not only be in compliance with all municipal and state rules and regulations, but there must be a mutual understanding between the tenant and landlord as how to best provide the service at the site without negatively impacting or compromising the rights and privileges of the other tenants.

Very clever. I enjoyed reading your blog. I am a commercial real estate broker, but have had experience in the residential realm, and unfortunately known some of the perils of which you speak. There is nothing more frustrating or embarrassing than to go to a property and discover that the key is missing from the lock box!