Client Confidentiality?
Q: "A borrower / homeowner called and stated that they got my cell phone number from the lender. I figured that I can now discuss the appraisal with the borrower. Was I correct in assuming that?"
A: NO NO NO. Before you speak with the homeowner/borrower regarding the appraisal you prepared for your client/lender, you must receive permission directly from the lender/client. Just because the homeowner got your cell number from the lender does not sound like direct permission to actually speak with them about information in your appraisal report that is confidential between you and your client/lender. Next time, make sure you get that authority first in writing from your client/lender before discussing anything about the appraisal with the borrower.