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:

  • Prepare for the appraiser to take interior photographs.  Most lenders require interior photographs of all rooms, interior of outbuildings and sometimes mechanical systems.
  • Keep a leash on pets or remove them from the property for the duration of the appraisal inspection.
  • Make sure all areas of the home are accessible to the appraiser including unlocking doors, padlocks, etc.
  • Remove any snow that will prevent access to the property or outbuildings.
  • Verify lock box combination and access keys are accessible, and do not lock the storm door from the inside. *Our office will generally NOT inspect occupied properties without an owner or agent present for liability reasons.
  • Remove locks, furniture, clothing, boxes, or anything that may prevent entry to the attic, crawl spaces, furnace, and water heater. 
  • Remove unneeded clutter from attic and crawl space so areas are accessible. (FHA requirement)
  • 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 and operating.
  • Confirm heating and air conditioning are operational. 
  • Ensure appliances present in the property (refinance) and/or conveying as part of a sale are operational. (FHA requirement)
  • Address any exposed electrical wiring and install outlet/switch covers if missing. (FHA requirement)
  • Repair small things like leaky faucets, missing door handles, peeling/chipping paint, etc. (Recommendation, possible FHA requirements) 
  • Mow your yard and trim your bushes or trees. (Recommendation)

Documents that may be helpful to the appraiser:

  • A survey or plot map of the property and building.
  • Copy of original house plans if available.
  • 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 or mortgage inspection plan that may list 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, septic system (Title V report) or water quality (if applicable).
  • A list of any major home improvements and/or upgrades. Construction, purchase and/or installation date along with permit confirmation if available, are helpful.
  • When snow is present, photos of the yard, pool, landscaping, etc.
  • If applicable, provide the condominium budget and project condo questionnaire which will detail expenses, number of rentals, etc.
Download Checklist