Why Preparing for a Home Appraisal Matters

A home appraisal is a crucial step in selling, refinancing, or determining the market value of your property. The appraiser’s evaluation can significantly impact your financing options, so preparing your home in advance can help ensure the best possible outcome.

At IdaHome Appraisal, Inc., we’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepared home can make a difference in an appraisal report. Here’s what you need to do before an appraiser arrives.

1. Clean and Declutter Your Home

While an appraiser won’t base your home’s value on its cleanliness, a well-kept home creates a positive impression. A messy, cluttered home can distract from its features and make spaces feel smaller.

  • ✅ Tidy up all rooms, including garages and basements
  • ✅ Remove clutter from countertops, floors, and shelves
  • ✅ Make sure all rooms are easily accessible

A well-organized home gives the impression that it’s been properly maintained.

2. Make Minor Repairs and Maintenance Updates

Small issues can add up and negatively impact your home appraisal value. Before the appraiser arrives, take care of the following:

  • ✅ Fix leaky faucets
  • ✅ Patch holes in walls
  • ✅ Repair broken door handles and locks
  • ✅ Replace burned-out light bulbs
  • ✅ Ensure all doors and windows open and close properly

Even minor cosmetic fixes can improve how an appraiser views your home’s condition.

3. Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home is the first thing an appraiser sees. Improving curb appeal can subtly enhance your home’s perceived value.

  • ✅ Mow the lawn and trim bushes
  • ✅ Power wash siding and walkways
  • ✅ Paint or clean the front door
  • ✅ Remove dead plants and weeds
  • ✅ Ensure house numbers are visible and in good condition

A well-maintained exterior signals that the home has been taken care of over the years.

4. Gather a List of Recent Home Improvements

Appraisers consider upgrades and renovations when determining home value. Before your appointment, create a list of any significant improvements made in the last 5-10 years, including:

  • ✅ Kitchen and bathroom remodels
  • ✅ New flooring or carpet
  • ✅ Updated HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems
  • ✅ New roof, windows, or siding
  • ✅ Energy-efficient upgrades (solar panels, insulation, etc.)

If possible, include receipts, warranties, or permits to support your claims.

5. Provide a List of Comparable Homes (“Comps”)

If you’re aware of recent home sales in your neighborhood, provide this information to the appraiser. While they will conduct their own research, any additional data can be helpful.

Helpful details include:

  • Recent home sales of similar size and condition
  • New developments or changes in the local real estate market
  • Unique features of your home that may not be immediately noticeable

If you recently received a real estate agent’s comparative market analysis (CMA), you can share that as well.

6. Ensure All Utilities Are Functioning

During an appraisal, the appraiser may check to see if the home’s systems are in working order. Make sure:

  • ✅ All lights turn on
  • ✅ The HVAC system is operational
  • ✅ Appliances are working (if included in the sale)
  • ✅ Toilets flush and sinks have running water

A fully functional home indicates proper maintenance.

7. Be Ready to Answer Questions

While you don’t need to follow the appraiser around, it’s helpful to be available to:

  • ✅ Point out upgrades or unique features
  • ✅ Provide historical information about the home
  • ✅ Answer any questions about maintenance or improvements

However, avoid trying to influence the appraiser’s judgment. Their job is to provide an objective home value assessment.

8. Know What Won’t Affect Your Home Appraisal

Some homeowners worry about factors that don’t influence an appraisal, such as:

  • ❌ Décor and personal style – The appraiser looks at the structure, not your furniture.
  • ❌ Neighbors’ home conditions – Only your property is assessed.
  • ❌ The price you want to sell for – The appraisal is based on market value, not asking price.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a home appraisal can help ensure you get the most accurate valuation possible. By making small repairs, organizing your home, and gathering relevant information, you’ll be in the best position to maximize your home’s appraised value.

If you need a professional home appraisal in Boise, Garden City, Eagle, Nampa, Middleton, Caldwell, Horseshoe Bend, Idaho City, Donnelly, McCall, Star, Meridian, or Kuna, Idaho, contact IdaHome Appraisal, Inc. today!

📞 Contact us today for a home appraisal you can trust!

Meet the Author

Josh Darrow ~ Headshot

Joshua L. Darrow is a seasoned Certified Residential Appraiser with 20 years of experience in the appraisal industry. He specializes in providing comprehensive residential appraisals for various purposes, including mortgage/lending for conventional and FHA-insured loans, estate appraisals for tax purposes, divorce appraisals, partition action appraisals, market value appraisals, pre-listing appraisals, for sale by owner appraisals, tax appeal appraisals, and measurement services. Known for his commitment to integrity, Joshua delivers non-biased, objective appraisal reports with the utmost professionalism and accuracy.