How To Prepare Your Home For An Appraisal
Mar 22, 2023
How To Prepare Your Home For An Appraisal
During an appraisal, a professional will inspect your home inside and out to determine its value. Appraisals are objective estimates that take into account the location of your home, the condition the property is in, and the number of bedrooms and square footage.
Getting your home in the best shape possible ahead of your appraisal will make a good impression and can help an appraiser see your home's worth. Here's how to prepare your home for an appraisal.
FOCUS ON CURB APPEAL
You've probably heard the phrase "don't judge a book by its cover." But when it comes to your home, the outside is the first thing anyone sees and it will leave an impression. The cover matters, so focus on curb appeal.
Spruce up the outside by planting some flowers, sweeping your porch, removing any toys from your yard, and knocking down those cobwebs from the corner of your porch. Make sure your roof shingles are in good shape, too.
DEEP CLEAN
You want your home to be in the best shape possible for your appraisal. A clean home shows that you care about your home and allows it to be seen at its peak. A deep clean means going beyond the typical vacuuming and sweeping. It can mean wiping down baseboards and other typically overlooked areas that can collect dust and grime. A deep clean will also show you what areas of your home might need repairs or upgrades.
MAKE REPAIRS AND UPGRADES
If your home has issues or you know it will soon, that's going to impact your appraisal. If your home has a dated furnace or air conditioner, consider replacing them before selling your home, if it's in your budget. These updates have the potential to increase the value of your home.
Make minor changes like replacing dim light bulbs, cleaning scuffs off the wall, removing peeling wallpaper, and touching up paint. These upgrades aren't likely to make your home's value skyrocket, but they're important as you market your home.
KEEP TRACK OF WHAT REPAIRS AND UPGRADES YOU'VE MADE
Just because a repair or upgrade is clearly new to you doesn't mean the appraiser will know it. Keep track of the repairs and upgrades you've made by keeping documentation and receipts. When an appraiser can see proof of your home's value, it will help your case.
MAKE SURE EVERYTHING WORKS
The basic systems of your home need to be working and installed properly. Check that your smoke detectors, home security system, furnace, electrical systems, and all other home systems work and are in good condition.
DECLUTTER
A clean, uncluttered house will make an appraiser's life much easier. Less clutter may not add much value to your home, but it will make a great first impression and allow the appraiser to inspect your home easily.
While decorations add character and personality to your home, they aren't necessary for an appraisal since you want your home to appear clean and be easy to evaluate. Make sure your clothes are stored neatly in bedrooms, that the bathroom counter isn't messy with products, and that any other clutter is cleared away.
RESEARCH COMPARABLES
Look at nearby, comparable real estate for some insight into what might come of your appraisal. Look at homes that have sold in the past few months and are similar to yours in size, number of rooms, number of bathrooms, and location. Looking at comparables will give you a sense of how your home compares to others nearby. You'll also gain the knowledge to recognize if your appraisal seems fair or on the low end.
Our professional agents at Orizon Real Estate can help if you're looking for a new home. Contact us today at 260-248-8961.