How can I streamline the refinancing process? Should I have a list of improvements available for the appraiser? Advice?

You can have all of your financial docs ready to proide to your lender...2 yrs tax rtns, 2 months of pay stubs, 2 months bank statements, 2 yrs W-2's, and copies of your DL and SS card. You can let the appraiser know of any improvements you have made but honestly, most improvements, unless they have contributed to the square footage, don't translate into much value. Existing sold comps are going to set your value for the most part and you can't control those.

It looks like a half question.. But your lender should have prepared you for what to expect... all supporting documentation will be needed.. Taxes, w2's, pay stubs, bank statements, etc.. Some lenders will require some of the closing documents from your original mortgage, such as the note and HUD-1,... As far as being prepared for the appraiser, you can provide him a list.. But keep in mind improvements are not the same as upkeep or maintenance.. Because you painted a room is really not considered an improvement.. if you changed the carpet to hardwood floors, that's an improvement.. I only say this because, it's possible you could irritate the appraiser with a lengthy list of what you consider to be improvements, when he's actually trained to look for such improvements without someone pointing them out, so be careful... he is the guy in control of the value of your home.. I'm a Broker here in Scottsdale AZ and I only lend in Arizona. If you or someone you know is looking for financing options, feel free to contact me or pass along my information. 480-287-5714 WilliamAcres.com

Please let your loan officer know if any improvements or additions were done without permits if you know, also ready access to a good quality scanner really helps with the clarity of documents being sent. Lastly, we really appreciate it when you get us a requested item back the same or very next day so we can keep the process moving for you!

Having documented Upgrades with receipts could help, well couldn't hurt for sure