A home appraiser’s job is to determine whether or not a house is priced fairly and, then, they report that to the bank. If the list price is too high, the bank will normally pull its funding for the buyer since the home is not listed at a fair market price. So, long story short, you want your house appraiser to deem the current list price of your home to be a fair price. Even though appraisers are subject to strict regulations, a lot of their job is all subjective. So, it is crucial for your home to make a good impression on them. Luckily, there are a lot of things you can do to help make sure your house reaches the listing price.
Think Like an Appraiser
This first step can be a little difficult for sellers, but it is one of the most important. Sellers need to go through their home and note where maintenance is needed. By thinking like an appraiser, you can identify factors that may negatively affect your home’s value. Essentially, you need to make sure everything works correctly. Meaning all the lights turn on, doors open & close properly, and there aren’t any leaks in the house. You need to show the home appraiser that the home has been well-maintained.
Finish Up the DIYs
One of the most critical things to do is to finish up any home maintenance tasks that have been abandoned. Fixing up small projects like squeaky doors and cleaning out the gutters is fine to do on your own. However, if you have some plumbing or electrical issues, it is best to call in an expert. Keep in mind that all these tasks should be small tasks, not big renovations. While giving a room a fresh coat of paint or adding some curb appeal is fine, it is not the best idea to do a full kitchen renovation.
List of Upgrades
Highlight sheets can end up being incredibly valuable tools because the home appraiser can see all the added value with just a glance. To get started, sit down with your Realtor and list out any home improvements that you have made in the last decade. You should also include approximate dates, permits, and warranties for these projects. On the list, you should include aesthetic changes as well as functional and structural improvements.
Clean Everything
Imagine your house is going to an interview, you will want to clean everything and put your best foot forward. Get rid of any clutter and do a deep clean a few days before the appraisal. When the day arrives, you will want to make sure that everything is in its place. Make the bed, do the dishes, and pick up any pet and/or kid toys. While these factors do not technically affect the appraisal, they may subconsciously influence the appraiser’s opinion of the home.
