Kirchmeyer & Associates Inc., a national appraisal, database and real estate appraisal consulting company, announced the addition of a collateral valuation insurance program, in partnership with Wrightstown, PA - Group9 Insurance Solutions, providing mortgage lenders and investors complete assurances of appraisal quality and accuracy. The program protects against default losses including repurchase expenses, affecting eligible loans including firsts, seconds and HELOCs. This warranty offering enhances the appraised value backed by an iron-clad insurance policy, provides assurance to the investment community that the valuation will not ultimately impair the performance of the loan.

"Addressing risk mitigation concerns is a priority for us and by starting with a quality and accurate appraisal, we consistently deliver a quality valuation from the beginning of the loan cycle to the end with this protection program for our clients," said James Kirchmeyer, president of Kirchmeyer & Associates. "Rebuilding the mortgage industry's confidence is paramount in today's market, and having a plan in place enables the industry to thrive. With Group9 Insurance Solutions we can deliver solid protection. It's more than just insurance with a mortgage transaction — it's reassurance."

The program protects the financial institution against an actual financial loss if the warranted collateral value is ultimately determined to be in excess of the variance of the collateral value determined as of the date of the original appraised value. When a loan defaults, forecloses or a loan repurchase demand occurs and a valuation inaccuracy is discovered, the insurer steps in and pays the claim subject to the terms and conditions of the insurance policy. The program is underwritten by a highly rated specialty insurance company working with Group9.

"We are excited about the partnership with Kirchmeyer & Associates," said Christopher Ulsh, president of Group9 Insurance Solutions. "We greatly appreciate the privilege to combine our comprehensive and highly rated appraisal insurance solution with such a quality and long standing organization such as Kirchmeyer & Associates."