- Start by focusing on the curb appeal of your home. First impressions are important, and the exterior of your home is the first thing the appraiser will see. Trim your lawn, add some fresh flowers, paint your front door, and ensure your home looks welcoming and well-maintained from the outside.
- Clean your home thoroughly. A clean and tidy home is more appealing to the appraiser and can impact your appraisal score. Ensure your home is clutter-free, dusted, and organized.
- Make minor repairs that won’t cost more than $500. Check your doors, windows, faucets, and doorknobs for any damage. Any small visible flaws can be an indicator of poor maintenance and can downgrade your appraisal.
- Examine and ensure that your roof, garage foundation, home, and roof systems are in good condition. These are large ticket items and any damage or issue with them can negatively impact your appraisal.
- Do small improvements that can add value to your home. Upgrading your kitchen appliances, replacing light fixtures, or repainting your interior walls can be simple, yet cost-effective updates that can help get a better appraisal score.
- Finally, make an inventory of your home improvement projects in progress. Inform the appraiser about any upgrades or repairs you have made recently, as well as any ongoing renovations. This shows that you have taken steps to maintain your home’s condition.
What Should I Do Before an Appraisal?
Getting a home appraisal is an important step in buying or selling a house. However, before you go through the process, it’s crucial to prepare your home to get the best value possible. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your property is in top shape before an appraisal.Boost Your Curb Appeal
The first step in preparing for an appraisal is to make sure that your home looks as appealing as possible from the outside. This is what appraisers see first when they arrive at your property and it sets the tone for the rest of the appraisal. Here are some things you can do to boost your curb appeal:- Trim any bushes or trees that are blocking your windows.
- Make sure your yard is well-maintained. Mow the lawn, pull weeds, and add some flowers if possible.
- Wash down the exterior of your home to remove any dirt or grime.
Cleaning is Key
Before the appraiser arrives, give your home a deep cleaning. This means getting rid of any clutter, removing any pet hair, and scrubbing surfaces until they shine. Here are some areas to focus on:- Kitchen countertops and appliances
- Bathroom surfaces and fixtures
- Windows and mirrors
Cleanliness Matters
In addition to deep cleaning, make sure your home is tidy. This means making beds, putting away dishes, and decluttering surfaces. A neat and organized home will make a better impression on the appraiser. Remember, you want to showcase your home in the best possible light.Tackle Minor Repairs
If there are any minor repairs that you’ve been putting off, now’s the time to take care of them. This can include things like:- Fixing leaky faucets
- Repairing cracked tiles
- Replacing broken light fixtures
Inspect Your Home’s Key Components
Before the appraiser arrives, take a close look at your home’s key components. This can include:- The roof
- The foundation
- The HVAC system
Small Improvements Add Up
If you have the time and the budget, consider making some small improvements to your home. This can include things like:- Painting the walls a fresh, neutral color
- Replacing outdated light fixtures
- Updating old appliances