How to Prepare Your Home for an Appraisal

• Author: Marsha Jacobs
• Posted: 2023-12-11

When the real estate market is on the rise, so are home appraisals. Home appraisals are a crucial part of home buying and can determine how much money you get for your house. They are based on several factors, including the condition of your home and any improvements you've made to it. If you're preparing for an appraisal, there are a few steps you can take to make sure your home is in top shape.
 

Clear the Clutter

If you have a lot of clutter, it can make your house look smaller and ding its value on the market. Take some time to clear away any unnecessary items taking up space in your home. This includes any furniture, decor, or knick-knacks that don't serve a purpose or add to the aesthetic. You should also tidy up outdoor areas, such as patios and decks.

To ensure the process goes smoothly, you should have your home clean and clutter-free at least 24 hours before the appraisal. This will give you time to finish any necessary tasks and give the appraiser plenty of space to do their job.
 

Make Simple Repairs

When it comes to repairs, minor fixes can significantly impact how much your house is worth. Inspect your home and look for areas that need attention, such as broken windows or loose floorboards. Even something as simple as a smudge on the walls can affect the appraisal process, so inspect your house before an appraiser arrives.

You don't have to invest in major renovations or upgrades, but it's a good idea to make any simple repairs that can help increase the value of your home. You may have to call in a professional for bigger jobs, so be sure to ask around for reliable contractors who can do the job quickly and efficiently.
 

Tidy the Outdoor Areas

When making a good impression, outdoor areas are essential in home appraisals. Make sure the lawn is mowed and the landscaping is neat. You should also clean any debris or leaves accumulated around the property, as these can make your house look unkempt and ding its value on the market.

If you have a pool, ensuring the water is clean and the surrounding area is free of clutter and plant growth is essential. Keeping your outdoor areas in good condition can increase your home's value and leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.
 

Have the Documents Ready

Make sure to have any relevant documents ready for when the appraiser arrives. This includes receipts from recent home improvements, proof of ownership, and information about any significant renovations you've done. Having these documents on hand can help establish your home's value and give the appraiser a better understanding of its condition.

If you're unsure what instruments to have ready, consulting with an appraiser beforehand is a good idea to save you time and help ensure the appraisal process goes as smoothly as possible.
 

Evaluate Your Home

It's essential to evaluate your home before an appraisal. Take a walk around and take note of any issues that may impact its value on the market. This includes simple things like checking for any loose items in your home or quickly sweeping the exterior areas. Inspecting all major appliances, such as the furnace and water heater, is also a good idea.

By doing a thorough evaluation before an appraisal, you can make sure to earn top dollar for your house. It can also help speed up the process, giving the appraiser a better understanding of its condition.

Also, list your home's features and amenities that could increase its value. This includes a pool, outdoor patio, landscaping, or any other unique additions you've made to the house. Having this list ready can help establish the value of your home and give the appraiser an idea of all its unique features.
 

Be Courteous

When it comes to home appraisals, courteousness is critical. Be friendly and accommodating when the appraiser arrives and answer any questions they may have promptly. They will need time and space to work, so make sure you're available but not intrusive.

Answering questions quickly and politely can go a long way in leaving a good impression on the appraiser and help make the process run more smoothly.

Home appraisals are crucial to home buying and can make or break your sale. Taking the time to prepare for an appraisal can help ensure that you get top dollar for your house. By following these tips, you can ensure your home is in prime condition when it's time for its appraisal and increase its overall value on the market.