Are there HELOC lenders that understand the Detroit market?

[Rene Brodowsky]

I'm applying for a HELOC on my rehabbed house in Detroit (primary). Huntington is valuing it way lower than what a rehabbed home sells for in my area. If they only look at comparable sales, they will be including Handyman specials/fixer uppers in their valuation. I would like to work with someone who knows the area. Does anyone have a recommendation?

[Erik Estrada]

Quote from @Rene Brodowsky:

They did a 'drive by' appraisal, but I think that means they looked at comps in the area. But, in Detroit you need to compare renovated to other renovated homes, not just sales.

 If this is a 1-4 unit residential loan, most appraisers and lenders are going to use the sales comparison approach. Just because the home is renovated, does not mean the market in that area will reflect a higher value for the property. It is very important that you solidify comparable sales in the area to justify the higher value and request a reconsideration of value if this is possible with your lender. 

Alternatively if you feel confident in the higher value, I would ask if the lender is open to doing an independent appraisal ordered by an AMC instead of a desktop one.