We also ordered and paid for an appraisal and had to request a copy from the bank multiple times before acknowledgement and receipt.
Then, after 40 days and with 2 days left until closing and after we'd signed what we thought was final paperwork, we were asked for additional documents that should have been requested MUCH earlier in the process. When we asked why they were so late in requesting information, we were told that the underwriter hadn't had the time to look at our information any earlier.
Don't waste your time with Republic Bank's home equity process. You'll just end up extremely disappointed and frustrated.