What is Tidewater on a VA appraisal?
Tidewater is VA's process when the appraiser believes the home will not appraise at the contract price. Before issuing a low Notice of Value, the appraiser invites the listing agent and lender to submit comparable sales supporting the contract price.
What this actually means.
Tidewater is a real opportunity, not a courtesy. The appraiser sends a Tidewater notice; the agent and lender have a defined window (often 48 hours) to provide additional comps. If those comps support the contract price, the final NOV may match. If not, a low NOV issues. Borrowers can then renegotiate price, bring cash to bridge the gap, or invoke Reconsideration of Value (ROV). Subject to VA guidelines.
What this looks like on a real file.
Where this can move.
Property condition against MPRs, repair requirements, Tidewater process, and Reconsideration of Value can change the appraised value and timeline.
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Educational only. VA guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review. Mortgage Expert, Inc. is not affiliated with the VA, HUD, or any government agency.