How to Prepare Your Home for an Appraisal

# How to Prepare Your Home for an Appraisal

Preparing your home for an appraisal doesn't require major renovations, but taking a few strategic steps can help ensure your property shows its best value.

## Why Preparation Matters

While appraisers are trained professionals who look beyond surface-level presentation, a well-maintained, clean home makes it easier for them to assess the property's true condition and value. First impressions matter, even for appraisers.

## Essential Preparation Steps

### 1. Deep Clean Your Home

A clean home suggests good maintenance and care:
- Clean all rooms thoroughly, including windows
- Remove clutter from countertops and surfaces
- Ensure bathrooms and kitchen are spotless
- Vacuum carpets and mop floors
- Clean the exterior, including siding and windows

### 2. Complete Minor Repairs

Fix small issues that could signal neglect:
- Repair leaky faucets
- Replace burned-out light bulbs
- Fix loose doorknobs and cabinet handles
- Patch small holes in walls
- Replace cracked outlet covers
- Tighten loose handrails

### 3. Enhance Curb Appeal

The exterior is the first thing the appraiser sees:
- Mow the lawn and trim hedges
- Weed flower beds and add fresh mulch
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Power wash the driveway and walkways
- Ensure house numbers are visible
- Add potted plants near the entrance

### 4. Document Improvements

Prepare a list of upgrades and improvements:
- Recent renovations with dates and costs
- New appliances or systems
- Roof replacement or major repairs
- Permits for additions or major work
- Energy-efficient upgrades

### 5. Ensure Access

Make the appraiser's job easier:
- Unlock all doors, including basement and attic
- Clear access to the furnace, water heater, and electrical panel
- Remove items blocking closets
- Ensure the garage is accessible
- Turn on utilities if the home is vacant

### 6. Highlight Special Features

Draw attention to value-adding features:
- Smart home technology
- High-end finishes
- Custom built-ins
- Energy-efficient windows
- Premium appliances

## What Not to Do

Avoid these common mistakes:
- Don't follow the appraiser around explaining everything
- Don't make major changes right before the appraisal
- Don't hide problems - they'll be discovered
- Don't over-improve beyond your neighborhood
- Don't pressure the appraiser about the value

## The Day of the Appraisal

On appraisal day:
- Be present to let the appraiser in, then give them space
- Have your documentation ready
- Keep pets secured
- Ensure good lighting throughout the home
- Be available to answer questions if needed

## What the Appraiser Will Look For

Understanding what appraisers assess helps you prepare:
- Overall condition and maintenance
- Square footage and room count
- Quality of construction and materials
- Functional utility of the floor plan
- Mechanical systems condition
- Safety issues or code violations

## After the Appraisal

Once the appraiser leaves:
- Don't expect immediate results (reports take a few days)
- Be prepared to provide additional documentation if requested
- Understand that you may not see the report directly (it goes to the lender)

## Conclusion

Proper preparation can help ensure your home appraises for its true value. While you can't control market conditions or comparable sales, you can control how your home is presented.

For professional appraisal services in Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama, contact Black Horn Valuations at (423) 904-6400.