How to Prepare for an Appraisal

To help the appraisal go as smoothly as possible we generally recommend you take the following actions and prepare the listed documents, if available, for the appraiser.

Checklist:

  • Unlock all padlocks on the property.
  • Make sure all areas of the home are accessible.
  • Verify lock box combination and access keys are accessible, and do not lock the storm door from the inside.
  • Safety equipment in house installed and working properly. (Specifically smoke/carbon monoxide detectors)
  • Outbuildings such as garages, sheds, pool houses, cabanas, etc. need to be accessible. 
  • Ensure furnace and water heater are accessible.
  • Address any exposed wiring in living area and install faceplates covers if missing.
  • Repair small things like leaky faucets, missing door handles, and trim. (Recommendation) 
  • Mow your yard and trim your bushes or trees (Recommendation)
  • Remove photographs of people from every room. (Underwriter requirement)

Documents:

  • A survey or plat map of the property and building (if readily available).
  • Copy of original house plans if available.
  • Records on the purchase of the property in the last three years.
  • Information on any written private agreements, such as a shared driveway with a neighbor.
  • A list of any personal property that is part of the home and you intend to be sold with the home, such as an oven, or a washer and dryer.
  • Title policy that lists encroachments or easements.
  • Most recent real estate tax bill and or legal description of the property.
  • Any inspection reports, or other recent reports for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, your septic system and your well.
  • A list of any major home improvements and enhancements (for example, the addition of central air conditioning or roof repairs). Please include the purchase and installation date, along with permit confirmation if available.
  • If applicable, provide the condominium budget and year-end statement.

Generally speaking, it is smart to tidy up and clean the house the same way you would if you were expecting company. While appraisers are trained not to make judgements based on personal items in the house, if a house is overly cluttered and dirty it is difficult for the appraiser to adequately observe the improvements and may error on the side of caution when evaluating the general condition of the improvements. Additionally, if this appraisal is being completed for a lender the appraisal will be reviewed by an underwriter. The appraiser has personally observed that underwriters will often question the appraiser on the overall condition of the improvements when the house is messy or cluttered which can slow down the process. 

Download Checklist