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Preparing for Your Appraisal

How to ensure your property is ready for an accurate valuation

Why Preparation Matters

While you can't directly influence an appraiser's opinion of value, proper preparation ensures your property is presented in its best light and that the appraiser has all the information needed for an accurate assessment.

A well-prepared property inspection can help avoid delays, prevent misunderstandings, and ensure that all valuable features and improvements are properly documented and considered.

Before the Appointment

Clean and Declutter

While cleanliness doesn't directly affect value, a tidy home allows the appraiser to easily access and evaluate all areas:

•Clean countertops, floors, and surfaces
•Remove clutter that might obstruct views or access
•Organize closets and storage areas (appraisers may look inside)
•Clear pathways to mechanical systems (furnace, water heater, etc.)

Ensure Full Access

The appraiser needs to inspect all areas of the property:

•Unlock all rooms, closets, and storage areas
•Provide access to attic, basement, and crawl spaces
•Ensure gates to yard/backyard are unlocked
•Turn on utilities (water, electricity, heat) if possible
•Secure pets or make arrangements for their safety

Complete Minor Repairs

Address obvious maintenance issues that could negatively impact the appraisal:

•Fix leaky faucets or running toilets
•Replace burned-out light bulbs
•Repair broken windows or cracked glass
•Patch small holes in walls or trim
•Fix stuck doors or windows
•Address any obvious safety hazards

Gather Documentation

Having documentation ready can help ensure upgrades and improvements are properly considered:

•List of recent improvements with dates and costs
•Receipts for major renovations or upgrades
•Building permits for additions or major work
•Property survey or plot plan if available
•HOA documents and fee information
•Warranty information for appliances or systems

During the Inspection

Do's

✓Be available to answer questions if needed
✓Point out recent upgrades or improvements
✓Mention any unique features or amenities
✓Provide access to all areas as requested
✓Give the appraiser space to work independently
✓Offer the prepared documentation if asked

Don'ts

✗Don't follow the appraiser room to room
✗Don't try to influence the appraiser's opinion
✗Don't mention the purchase price or desired value
✗Don't provide comparable sales (unless specifically requested)
✗Don't discuss online estimates or tax assessments
✗Don't make excuses for the condition of the property

Enhancing Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. The exterior of your property sets the tone for the entire inspection:

Landscaping

•Mow the lawn and trim edges
•Weed flower beds and gardens
•Trim overgrown shrubs and trees
•Clear leaves and debris
•Add fresh mulch to beds

Exterior

•Power wash siding, driveway, and walkways
•Clean windows and screens
•Touch up paint on trim or shutters
•Clean gutters and downspouts
•Ensure house numbers are visible

Interior Preparation Checklist

Kitchen

✓ Clean and clear countertops
✓ Clean appliances (inside and out)
✓ Empty and organize cabinets
✓ Fix leaky faucets
✓ Ensure all appliances are working

Bathrooms

✓ Deep clean all surfaces
✓ Fix dripping faucets or toilets
✓ Re-caulk if needed
✓ Ensure proper ventilation
✓ Replace worn shower curtains

Living Areas

✓ Declutter and organize
✓ Clean carpets or floors
✓ Dust all surfaces
✓ Ensure adequate lighting
✓ Open curtains/blinds for natural light

Bedrooms

✓ Make beds and tidy up
✓ Organize closets
✓ Ensure windows open properly
✓ Check smoke detectors
✓ Remove personal items from surfaces

Basement/Garage

✓ Clear pathways
✓ Organize storage areas
✓ Check for water damage or moisture
✓ Ensure mechanical systems are accessible
✓ Clean and organize

HVAC/Mechanical

✓ Replace air filters
✓ Clear area around furnace/water heater
✓ Have service records available
✓ Ensure all systems are operational
✓ Note age of major systems

Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠

Don't Make Major Changes Right Before

Avoid starting renovations or making major changes just before the appraisal - incomplete work can negatively impact value.

⚠

Don't Hide Problems

Appraisers can often spot covered-up issues, and honesty ensures an accurate assessment.

⚠

Don't Over-Improve

Making expensive improvements specifically for the appraisal may not yield a proportional increase in value.

⚠

Don't Restrict Access

Limited access to areas of the home can result in incomplete assessments or adverse assumptions.

Bay Area-Specific Considerations

Seismic Safety: Be prepared to show evidence of seismic retrofitting, foundation bolting, or cripple wall bracing if applicable. These improvements are valued in the Bay Area market.

Energy Efficiency: Document solar panels, energy-efficient windows, or upgraded insulation. California buyers value these features.

ADUs and Additions: If you have an Accessory Dwelling Unit or unpermitted additions, have documentation ready showing permits or legal status.

Water Conservation: Low-flow fixtures and drought-resistant landscaping can be selling points worth highlighting.

Tech Features: Smart home technology, EV charging stations, and high-speed internet infrastructure are increasingly valued in Bay Area properties.

Quick Day-Before Checklist

□Confirm appointment time
□Unlock all doors and gates
□Turn on all lights
□Secure or confine pets
□Clear driveway for parking

□Gather documentation
□Final walk-through and tidy
□Open blinds/curtains
□Check all light bulbs work
□Note any features to mention

Related Resources

The Appraisal Process

Understand what happens during an appraisal

Factors Affecting Value

Learn what influences your property's value

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