As a real estate agent, you know that a home appraisal is a critical part of the selling, refinancing, or loan process. The appraiser’s valuation will influence the listing price and negotiations, but while the housing market may be out of your control, you can certainly help your clients ensure their property makes a stellar impression.
Here’s how to guide your clients in preparing for a home appraisal:
Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, even for appraisers. A well-maintained exterior shows that the home has been cared for, which can positively impact its appraisal. Advise your clients to:
- Mow the lawn and trim the hedges
- Pressure-wash walkways and driveways
- Touch up paint on the front door and exterior
- Remove junk or debris from the yard
A fresh and manicured exterior will set the tone for a positive home appraisal.
Declutter and Organize
While the appraiser’s role is to assess value, not style, a well-maintained and organized home provides a clearer picture of the property’s worth. Here’s how you can help your clients:
- Tidy up any areas that may feel cramped or crowded
- Organize closets, drawers, and cabinets for easy access and to show ample storage space
- Clear countertops and kitchen surfaces to highlight the available workspaces
- Straighten furniture and eliminate any items that obstruct walkways
- Clean and refresh the floors and carpets
An orderly space creates a better experience for the appraiser and highlights the home’s best features.
Document Upgrades and Repairs
If your client has made recent upgrades, be sure they have a detailed list of all improvements. Include dates, costs, and before-and-after photos where possible. Common upgrades that add value include:
- Kitchen or bathroom remodels
- New HVAC systems, roofs, or windows
- Flooring updates
- Smart home technology installations
This documentation will help your clients justify a higher valuation.
Finish Minor Repairs
Small issues like leaky faucets or chipped paint may not seem significant, but they can impact the appraisal. Recommend that your clients address:
- Dripping faucets or running toilets
- Broken or loose door handles
- Squeaky hinges or sticky doors
- Scuffed walls or chipped paint
These small repairs demonstrate that the home is well-cared for and in excellent condition.
Highlight Energy Efficiency Features
Energy-efficient homes can have a higher market value. Advise your clients to point out any eco-friendly features like:
- Solar panels
- Energy-efficient windows
- Smart thermostat
- Energy-efficient lighting (LED bulbs, motion sensors, etc.)
These features can differentiate the home and increase its value in the eyes of the appraiser.
Final tips before a client’s home appraisal
Before the appraisal date is confirmed, your clients should prioritize two essential tasks: ensuring all major systems are in good working order and connecting with you to discuss recent comparable home sales.
Appraisers will conduct their own market analysis to determine the home’s value, but providing up-to-date comparable sales (comps) in the neighborhood can add valuable context. If your client is aware of recent home sales similar to theirs, share this information with the appraiser. These comps, particularly those reflecting homes in comparable condition or featuring upgrades like those in your client’s home, can help make the case for a higher valuation.
Additionally, highlighting comps that showcase the potential of the neighborhood or new developments in the area can offer further insight into why the home’s value may be higher than expected.
Appraisal Day Tips
On appraisal day, assist your clients in preparing their home by recommending the following steps:
- Ensure All Areas Are Accessible: Make sure the appraiser can easily access all spaces, including the attic, basement, and garage. This will help them evaluate the full square footage and any additional features that might add value.
- Secure Pets in a Separate Area: Pets can be distracting and may make the appraiser feel uncomfortable. Encourage your clients to keep pets in a separate area of the house during the appraisal.
- Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: A bright and inviting space helps the appraiser focus on the home’s best qualities. Advise your clients to open blinds, turn on lights, and ensure all areas are tidy and free of clutter.
The preparation your client does ahead of time can greatly influence the appraisal outcome. By addressing minor repairs, showcasing home upgrades, and preparing the property for a thorough inspection, you’ll set your client up for success.
