Simple Steps to Ensure Your Property is Appraisal-Ready
While you can't change your home's size, location, or age, you can take steps to ensure the appraiser sees your property at its best. These simple preparations help ensure an accurate valuation that reflects your home's true market value.
Before the Appraiser Arrives
Schedule Strategically
Timing can make a difference:
- Allow adequate time to complete minor repairs
- Choose a time when you can be present to answer questions
- Ensure all areas of the home are accessible
- Schedule during daylight hours when natural lighting is best
- Avoid scheduling during severe weather if possible
Gather Important Documentation
Prepare these documents for the appraiser:
- Improvement Records: Receipts for major renovations and upgrades
- Permit Documentation: Building permits for additions or major work
- Property Survey: Official lot survey if available
- HOA Information: Association fees and amenities
- Warranty Information: For roof, HVAC, appliances
- Property Tax Bills: Current assessment information
- Utility Bills: Evidence of energy-efficient improvements
Exterior Preparations
Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions matter:
- Lawn Care: Mow grass, edge walkways, trim bushes
- Landscaping: Remove weeds, add fresh mulch, plant flowers
- Entrance: Clean front door, update house numbers, add welcome mat
- Walkways: Sweep paths, repair broken concrete
- Driveway: Clean stains, fill cracks, clear clutter
- Exterior Lighting: Replace burned-out bulbs
Address Obvious Issues
Complete visible repairs:
- Repair or replace damaged siding
- Fix loose or missing roof shingles
- Clean or paint faded shutters
- Repair damaged gutters and downspouts
- Replace cracked windows
- Touch up exterior paint where needed
Interior Preparations
Deep Clean
A clean home suggests good maintenance:
- All Rooms: Vacuum, dust, and organize
- Kitchen: Clean appliances, countertops, and floors
- Bathrooms: Scrub fixtures, tiles, and mirrors
- Windows: Clean glass inside and out
- Floors: Polish hardwood, shampoo carpets
- Walls: Spot clean marks and scuffs
Declutter and Depersonalize
Help the appraiser see the home's features:
- Remove excess furniture to show room sizes
- Clear countertops and surfaces
- Organize closets to show storage space
- Remove personal items and photos
- Clear garage and basement clutter
- Create clear pathways through rooms
Make Minor Repairs
Fix small issues that suggest poor maintenance:
- Repair leaky faucets and toilets
- Replace burned-out light bulbs
- Fix squeaky doors and loose handles
- Patch nail holes and touch up paint
- Replace cracked outlet covers
- Fix loose tile or broken caulk
- Repair or replace damaged screens
Highlight Improvements and Features
Create an Improvement List
Document all upgrades:
- New roof, windows, or siding with dates and costs
- HVAC system replacement or upgrades
- Kitchen or bathroom renovations
- Finished basement or attic space
- New appliances included in sale
- Electrical or plumbing upgrades
- Energy-efficient improvements (solar panels, insulation)
- Structural repairs or foundation work
Point Out Special Features
Make sure the appraiser notices:
- Built-in shelving or custom cabinetry
- High-quality finishes and materials
- Smart home technology
- Security system
- Water filtration or softening systems
- Generator or backup power
- Irrigation system
Access and Visibility
Ensure Full Access
The appraiser needs to see everything:
- All Rooms: Unlock and open all interior doors
- Basement: Clear pathway, turn on lights
- Attic: Provide access if finished or partially finished
- Garage: Clear space to show size and features
- Outbuildings: Unlock sheds, workshops, etc.
- Crawl Space: Provide access if needed
- Pets: Secure pets to avoid interference
Maximize Lighting
Well-lit homes photograph and appear better:
- Open all curtains and blinds
- Turn on lights throughout the home
- Replace dim or flickering bulbs
- Clean light fixtures
- Schedule during daylight hours
What NOT to Do
Avoid These Mistakes
- Don't Follow the Appraiser Around: Be available for questions but give them space
- Don't Discuss the Sale Price: Appraisers must remain independent
- Don't Argue About Value: Save concerns for after reading the report
- Don't Make Major Changes: Stick to maintenance, not renovations
- Don't Leave a Mess: Clutter suggests poor maintenance
- Don't Be Absent: Being available helps answer questions
Day of the Appraisal
Final Preparations
Last-minute tasks:
- Do final walkthrough to ensure everything is ready
- Adjust thermostat to comfortable temperature
- Play soft background music (optional)
- Have documentation packet ready
- Ensure clear driveway access
- Put away personal valuables
During the Visit
Best practices while the appraiser works:
- Greet professionally and offer improvement list
- Answer questions accurately and concisely
- Point out any features that might be missed
- Give space to work without hovering
- Take notes of what areas they inspect
- Ask about timeline for report delivery
Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations
- Weather: Clear snow from walkways and driveway in winter
- Historic Homes: Document period features and restoration work
- School Districts: Have school information available if relevant
- Property Taxes: Recent assessment information helpful
- Basement Condition: PA homes often have basements—keep them clean and dry
What Won't Affect Your Appraisal
Don't worry about:
- Personal decorating tastes
- Furniture style or quality
- Minor wear and tear
- Kids' toys or daily living items
- Your mortgage balance or purchase price
- How much you love your home
Proper preparation helps ensure your home is evaluated fairly and that the appraiser has all the information needed to provide an accurate market valuation. While these steps won't change fundamental factors like location or square footage, they ensure your property is presented in the best possible light and that recent improvements are properly documented and considered.