“How to Prepare for a Home Appraisal as a Seller”

You’ve received an offer on your home — congratulations! But before the deal can close, there’s one crucial step left: the home appraisal.

A home appraisal determines your property’s fair market value and ensures the buyer’s lender isn’t financing more than the home is worth. For sellers, a strong appraisal can make or break the sale.

Here’s how to prepare your home (and yourself) for a successful appraisal.

1. Understand What the Appraiser Is Looking For

Appraisers don’t judge your décor or style — they evaluate the property’s condition, features, and location to determine value.They’ll consider:

• Comparable recent sales in your area (called “comps”)

• The size and layout of your home

• The quality of construction and upgrades

• Overall condition, maintenance, and curb appeal

Knowing what matters helps you focus your efforts where they count most.

2. Boost Your Curb Appeal

First impressions influence perception — and while appraisers are objective, a well-maintained exterior suggests a well-cared-for home.

Before the appraisal:

• Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and remove weeds.

• Touch up paint on doors, railings, or fences.

• Sweep porches, clean walkways, and tidy up outdoor spaces.

You don’t need a full renovation — just a clean, inviting exterior that says “this home is cared for.”

3. Tackle Minor Repairs

Small issues can add up and make an appraiser question your home’s upkeep.

Fix anything that’s broken, loose, or visibly worn, such as:

• Leaky faucets or running toilets

• Cracked windows or damaged screens

• Missing outlet covers or lightbulbs

• Squeaky doors or loose handles

Even minor maintenance sends the message that your home has been well maintained.

4. Highlight Upgrades and Improvements

Appraisers may not know every detail about your home, so help them out.

Provide a list of improvements you’ve made, such as:

• Roof replacement or HVAC upgrades

• Kitchen or bathroom remodels

• New flooring, windows, or insulation

• Energy-efficient features like solar panels or smart thermostats

Include dates, costs, and receipts if possible — these details can help justify a higher valuation.

5. Clean and Declutter

A clean home shows pride of ownership and helps the appraiser move easily through rooms.

You don’t need to stage your home like a showing, but you should:

• Clear floors, countertops, and hallways.

• Tidy up closets, garages, and storage areas.

• Eliminate odors from pets or cooking.

Clean homes feel brighter, more spacious, and well cared for — all of which leave a positive impression.

6. Make Every Room Accessible

Appraisers need to inspect all areas of the home, including attics, basements, and utility spaces.Make sure they can easily reach:

• Water heater, furnace, and electrical panels

• Crawl spaces and storage areas

• All rooms, closets, and garages

If the appraiser can’t access part of your home, they may have to note it as “uninspected,” which could delay the process or reduce accuracy.

7. Research Your Neighborhood’s Recent Sales

Before the appraisal, review recent sales in your area. Your realtor can help you gather comparable properties (“comps”) that highlight your home’s true value.

If you believe certain comps don’t reflect your home’s worth (for example, they were distressed sales or fixer-uppers), share this with your agent so they can communicate it professionally to the appraiser if appropriate.

8. Be Polite — but Professional

You don’t need to “sell” your home to the appraiser, but being courteous helps.Allow them space to work, answer questions honestly, and offer your improvement list when they arrive.

Professionalism creates a positive atmosphere and shows pride of ownership.

9. Prepare Emotionally for the Outcome

Even if you’ve done everything right, the final number might surprise you. Remember:

• Appraisals are based on objective data, not personal value.

• Market shifts and comparable sales play a major role.

• Your realtor can help appeal or challenge a low appraisal if it doesn’t reflect true market conditions.

Final Thoughts

A great appraisal starts long before the appraiser arrives. By tackling repairs, organizing documents, and presenting your home at its best, you’ll give your property every chance to appraise at — or above — your expected value.

A little preparation now can help protect your sale, your price, and your peace of mind.