How to Prepare for Your Appraisal

We want your appraisal appointment to be simple and comfortable. There is very little you need to do to prepare. Your home does not need to be spotless, staged, or prepared as though it were being shown for sale.

Before the Appraiser Arrives

A few simple things will help the appointment go smoothly:

  • Please keep pets secure during the appointment.
  • Unlock side gates so the appraiser can access and measure the exterior of the property.
  • Please have the garage accessible and, when possible, have garage doors open or available to be opened.
  • Please make detached garages, guest houses, casitas, workshops, or other significant structures accessible.
  • If there are personal items you would prefer not to have photographed, you may place them in a secure location beforehand or simply discuss them with the appraiser when they arrive.
  • If you have information about major improvements, remodeling, additions, detached structures, or other significant property features, feel free to have it available. If you don't have this information, don't worry—we can discuss the property with you during the appointment.

What to Expect During the Appointment

Your appraiser will normally meet you at the front door and briefly explain the inspection process.

The appraiser will then walk around and physically measure the exterior of the home while observing the site and exterior improvements. After completing the exterior portion, the appraiser will return to the front door and begin the interior inspection.

Inside the home, the appraiser will walk through the dwelling, photograph the rooms and relevant interior areas, and document property characteristics and improvements.

The appraiser may also use voice notes during the inspection to accurately document observations and information about your property.

Photographs & Your Privacy

Photographs are used to document the property as part of the appraisal process. We also understand that this is your home and your privacy matters.

If there are personal items, family photographs, documents, valuables, or other things you would prefer not to appear in an appraisal photograph, please let the appraiser know. You may also place particularly private items in a secure location before the appointment.

When appropriate, we can blur specific items or portions of photographs to help protect your privacy while still properly documenting the property.

There is no need to remove ordinary family photographs or personal belongings throughout your home.

Time for Your Questions

At the end of the inspection, we set aside time for you to ask questions and discuss your property with the appraiser.

This is a good time to tell us about remodeling, additions, improvements, unusual property features, or anything else you believe may be important for the appraiser to understand.

We also welcome questions about the appraisal process and what happens next. Our goal is for you to feel comfortable and informed throughout the process.

That's Really It

You do not need to stage your home, make cosmetic repairs, mow the yard, replace light bulbs, unload appliances, or prepare your home as though it were being inspected for a lender.

Just make the property reasonably accessible, secure your pets, and let us know about anything you would like us to be aware of.

We are guests in your home. Our goal is to make the appraisal appointment professional, respectful, and as easy and comfortable as possible.