If you’re selling or refinancing your home, more than likely a real estate appraisal will be required. Here are 4 tips that will help the appraisal process go smoothly:

1. Make the ENTIRE home accessible

In some cultures it’s common for many generations of family members to live in a home. In these situations a bedroom often becomes a sanctuary and may be locked to keep others away. 99.9% of the year this is ok, just not on the day the appraiser comes. Is there a meth lab behind that locked door? Probably not. But most appraisals require a visual inspection of all interior rooms. Coming back for another inspection = more time and gas = an additional fee. Guess who ends up paying for it?

Another example of areas that become inaccessible are utility/storage rooms. Laser measuring devices are available but are fairly bulky to carry. Plus the laser needs to be pointed at the opposite wall without “measuring” the furnace, water heater, cardboard boxes, holiday decorations, etc. At least clear a path so the appraiser can walk from one end of the room to the other with a tape measure.

2. Clean (or at least pick up) the home

Appraisers are used to looking past everyday clutter. And, despite what some may think, they’re also human beings. A clean home can leave a good impression which can translate into a higher home value.

A side note: Occasionally an appraiser will try to schedule the inspection and a homeowner says something like, “Can we schedule it for next _____ because we need to clean the house first.” GREAT! If this was actually the truth there wouldn’t be a problem. Usually this statement comes from homeowners who haven’t cleaned their home in the past 6-60+ months. Really, can you clean that mess in a few days?? Just schedule the appointment already so the appraiser can do their job.

3. Keep it maintained

We’re not real handy, nor do we expect all homeowners to be. But fixing leaky faucets, replacing broken door knobs or installing missing trim work can go a long way. We’ve never used a service like Mr. Handyman so we can’t fully endorse them. But for whatever it’s worth, actor Richard Karn – the 200th host of “Family Fued” and also Tim Allen’s sidekick on “Home Improvement” gives them a thumbs up.

4. Ask about special conditions

If you’re lucky enough to have the Federal Government lending money on your home (FHA) there are additional items the appraiser needs to look at. Homes older than 1978 can’t have visible peeling paint. There also can’t be faulty or defective mechanical systems (electrical, plumbing and heating). Ask about these and other conditions so you can avoid situations where the appraiser has to come back and re-inspect your home.

Following these tips will help your appraiser and may even increase your home’s value.

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