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.
• Remove locks, furniture, clothing, boxes, or anything that may prevent entry to the attic, crawl spaces, furnace, and water heater.
• Safety equipment in house installed and working properly.
• Replace light bulbs so rooms have adequate lighting.
• Outbuildings such as garages, sheds, pool houses, cabanas, etc. need to be accessible.
• Ensure furnace and water heater are accessible.
• Confirm heating and air conditioning are operational.
• 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)

Documents:

• A list of repairs, upgrades and/or remodel work performed since you purchased the home, or within the last ten years (whichever is more recent)
• Any permits that have been pulled for property additions, ADUs or other reasons.
• A copy of the floorplan or builder's plans, if available, if home is new construction or larger than 4000sf.
• HOA information, if applicable, including project name, management company info, monthly dues and what they cover.