What is NOT a step involved in the property appraisal process?

Obtaining a mortgage for the buyer is not a step involved in the property appraisal process. The primary focus of the appraisal process is to determine the value of the property through various methodologies, ensuring that stakeholders have an accurate assessment of its market value.

The appraisal process typically begins with the identification of the property, where specifics about the property are gathered, such as its location, size, and characteristics. Following this, the appraiser selects an appropriate method for appraisal, which could include approaches like the sales comparison approach, cost approach, or income approach, depending on the property's nature and the available data.

Lastly, the culmination of the process is the preparation of the appraisal report, where the appraiser outlines their findings, methods, and the final value estimate. This comprehensive report serves multiple purposes, including informing buyers, sellers, and lenders about the property's worth.

However, obtaining a mortgage is a separate financial process that may occur after an appraisal is conducted, as buyers need financing to complete the purchase of a property. Thus, while integral to real estate transactions, securing a mortgage is distinctly outside the appraisal process itself.