The Art of Appraisals
What is an Appraisal?
An appraisal is a written estimate of a property’s market value, completed by an Appraiser, an objective third party, whose job is to give their professional opinion of the market value of a home
What does an Appraiser look for?
Condition of the Home
The appraiser will identify any improvements, upgrades, needed repairs, and the overall condition of your home.
Size of the Home
The total area of finished, above-grade residential space; calculated by measuring the outside perimeter of the structure and includes only finished, habitable, above-grade living space. (Finished basements & attics are not generally included in the total gross living area.
Location of the Home
The location of your home relative to major neighbored boundaries, parks, schools, shops or being in proximity to any external factors which may adversely impact the marketability of your home.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms
The number of above-grade bedrooms and bathrooms in your home.
Upgrades or Remodeled Areas
Major updates/upgrades to your homes kitchen, bathroom(s), windows, roof or mechanical systems etc…
Additional Features
Fireplace, Skylights, Irrigation system, finished basement etc...
Quality of Construction
The material used and found throughout your home such as hardwood floors, ceramic tile, custom woodwork, kitchen cabinet grade, kitchen counters tops, bathtub wainscot.
Outdoor Amenities
Pool, Patio, Deck, Gazebo, etc…
Mechanical Systems
Your homes plumbing, electric and HVAC systems.
Functional Utility
Your homes room count and layout.
Exterior Features
Identifying whether your home has brick, stone, aluminum, vinyl, Stucco facade.
Curb Appeal
Collectively considering features such as landscaping, style of home, exterior ornamentation, tidiness, and the overall condition of the homes exterior features.
What Should I Expect During the Appraisal?
How Do I Prepare for my Appraisal?
- Make sure all the maintenance or repairs you can do are done.
- Box up clutter and put it in storage.
- Tidy up the yard.
- Make any improvements before the appraisal.
- Keep records of all maintenance and upgrades to show the appraiser.
- Thoroughly clean it so it looks almost new.
- Keep pets locked up during the appraisal.
- Make sure the appraiser is going to have access to all interior and exterior access/rooms of the home.
