How to Write BPO Comments That Pass Review the First Time
Specific beats generic every time. Here is how to write comments that tell the reviewer you were really there.
Comments are where reviewers decide whether you did the work. Generic phrases invite revision requests. Specific observations get approved.
Condition comments
Weak: "Property in average condition."
Strong: "Roof appears original with curling shingles on the south slope. Exterior paint peeling on trim. Yard maintained. No visible structural issues from the street."
Neighbourhood comments
Say what the area is like and which way it is moving, with a reason.
"Established subdivision of 1990s single-family homes. Stable values; three of the last ten sales were above list. Two nearby homes are bank-owned, which may temper prices slightly."
Comparable comments
For each comp, one line on why it fits and how it differs.
"Comp 2: same model, 0.3 miles, sold 45 days ago. Updated kitchen; adjusted down for superior condition."
Pricing comments
Connect your value to the evidence. "Suggested sale price sits between Comp 1 and Comp 3, closer to Comp 1 due to similar condition. Marketing time 45 to 60 days based on current listing activity."
Explaining the unusual
Stretched comps, missing photos, unusual adjustments: explain each in a sentence before the reviewer has to ask.
A quick self-check before you submit
- Could a reviewer picture the house from your words alone?
- Does every number in your comments match the grid?
- Did you avoid copy-pasting from your last report?
Related: how to pick comps.