HELOC recommendation - I need a lender with a fair assessment

[Leslie McIntosh]

Looking for advice on getting a HELOC on a primary residence in Oklahoma.

I have gone thru the process with the local state bank, but the drive by appraisal came in way low (target $250k+ | appraisal @ $206k).

Challenge is, a drive by does not consider all the work completed on the inside fresh paint/fixtures/custom hand scraped hardwoods throughout. Brand new roof in September.

I am not sure if this is just an inexperienced appraiser? Or what the deal is. I am looking for $250-265k for the appraisal. I have sent the bank recent Zillow sales nearby that have similar interiors that match this home and support my appraisal request.

Another challenge is this was a short sale purchase from the MLS @ $164k a year ago, so that may be dragging the appraisal down as well.

Thanks for the input! Looking to pull close to $70k out of this house so I can go fund my next deal! 😁