Home appraisal process

{{whyLabel}}: Appraisers may not notice invisible improvements like a new HVAC system or reinforced insulation, which significantly impact value in 2025.

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• List all major renovations (kitchen, baths, roof) from the last 10 years.
• Include the date of completion and the approximate cost for each item.
• Attach copies of permits for structural work or ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), as unpermitted work can be excluded from value.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a clear, chronological list of all property improvements.

{{whyLabel}}: Providing accurate legal and technical data prevents the appraiser from making conservative estimates based on incomplete public records.

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• Locate your most recent property survey or plat map.
• Find your latest property tax bill and any HOA (Homeowners Association) documents.
• Include a list of 'Smart Home' features or energy-efficient upgrades (e.g., heat pumps, EV chargers) which are high-value factors in 2025/2026.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A physical or digital folder containing the survey, tax info, and HOA rules is ready.

{{whyLabel}}: Appraisers primarily use the 'Sales Comparison Approach,' looking at similar homes sold within 1 mile in the last 90–180 days.

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• Use a real estate platform to find 3–5 homes similar in square footage, age, and condition that sold recently.
• Note specific reasons why your home is superior (e.g., 'larger lot,' 'finished basement').
• Do not attempt to tell the appraiser the value; simply provide these as 'market context' for their consideration.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a list of 3-5 recent local sales to share with the appraiser.

{{whyLabel}}: While appraisers are trained to look past mess, a clean home suggests better overall maintenance and makes rooms appear larger.

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• Focus heavily on the kitchen and bathrooms; these rooms carry the most weight in valuation.
• Clear all countertops and remove excess furniture to maximize the 'flow' and perceived square footage.
• Clean windows to let in maximum natural light, making the interior feel more inviting.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Every room is tidy, surfaces are clear, and the home smells neutral.

{{whyLabel}}: Small defects like leaky faucets or peeling paint can signal 'deferred maintenance,' leading the appraiser to lower the condition rating.

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• Repair dripping faucets, running toilets, and squeaky doors.
• Patch small holes in drywall and touch up chipped paint (especially in homes built before 1978 due to lead-based paint regulations).
• Ensure all light bulbs are working so the appraiser can see every corner clearly.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: All minor 'eyesore' repairs are completed.

{{whyLabel}}: The appraiser's first impression starts at the curb; a well-maintained exterior sets a positive tone for the entire inspection.

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• Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and remove any dead plants or debris from the yard.
• Pressure wash the driveway and walkways if they are stained or mossy.
• Ensure the house number is clearly visible from the street.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The exterior looks manicured and well-cared for from the street.

{{whyLabel}}: Appraisers must inspect the attic, crawlspace, furnace, and water heater; blocked access can delay the report.

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• Move boxes or storage items away from the HVAC unit and electrical panel.
• Ensure the attic scuttle or crawlspace hatch is easily accessible and not blocked by furniture.
• Unlock any gates or outbuildings (sheds/garages) that need to be measured.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: All utility areas and crawlspaces are unobstructed.

{{whyLabel}}: Pets can be a distraction or a safety concern, and the appraiser needs to move quickly through every room to take measurements.

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• Place pets in a crate or take them off-site during the appointment.
• Ensure all interior doors are unlocked and can be opened fully.
• Turn on all lights throughout the house before the appraiser arrives.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The home is quiet, bright, and easy to navigate.

{{whyLabel}}: Providing a physical 'Fact Sheet' ensures the appraiser has your list of upgrades and comps handy while they write the report later.

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• Greet the appraiser and hand them a folder containing your Upgrade Log, Comps, and Survey.
• Briefly mention any 'hidden' upgrades like a new sewer line or attic insulation.
• Step back and let them work; do not follow them from room to room unless they ask a question.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The appraiser has your documentation in hand.

{{whyLabel}}: Errors in basic data (like square footage or bedroom count) are common and can significantly lower the final value.

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• Check the 'Subject' section for correct address and legal description.
• Verify the 'Improvements' section accurately reflects your home's condition and upgrades.
• Examine the 'Sales Comparison Approach' grid to see which comps were used and what adjustments were made.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have thoroughly read the report and noted any factual errors.

{{whyLabel}}: If the appraisal comes in lower than the sales price (an 'appraisal gap'), you may need to challenge it to save the deal.

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• Identify specific factual errors (e.g., 'Report says 3 bedrooms, but there are 4').
• Provide 2–3 better comparable sales that the appraiser missed.
• Submit your request through your lender; appraisers will only consider ROVs based on data, not opinions.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: An ROV request is submitted or the value is accepted.