A home appraisal is an unbiased, independent estimate of the true or fair market value of a house. It is a professional report that helps gauge the value of a house. It is also referred to as property valuation. A house can be appraised if the owner is looking to refinance their home or most commonly when a person is selling the house. Preparation before is key in order to have your house valued at the best possible price. Here are some key things to do.
Plan for the appraisal
Schedule your home appraisal to give yourself enough time to make the necessary arrangements. You should also schedule it on a day when you are free and available to entertain the appraise without needing to rush to some other engagement. If you have pets, make sure they are taken care of, best case away from the house so that you give the appraiser your full attention.
Get an early appraisal
The home appraisal determines the value placed on your house and by extension the amount a buyer should pay. If you have concerns about the potential worth of the house, you can hire your own appraiser to come in and note the areas of concern before the final official appraiser come in. You can then fix the issues raised by the appraiser so that the final price is higher.
Personal walk-through and inspection
Do a complete walk-through with someone else, preferably a real estate agent before the home appraisal. You’re so used to living in the house and may miss some things which is why it helps to do a walk-through with someone else, with a fresh pair of eyes. A realtor would be great because they can with an unbiased, critical and professional eye spot the problem areas that need fixing and advice accordingly. Take note of everything that needs fixing including faulty fixtures, loose floorboards, ceiling cracks, damaged walls, and more. Make a checklist and go through it before the final appraisal.
Declutter
Decluttering can make it easier for the appraiser to take pictures and measurements during the appraisal process. Household items left in the way can detract from the appraiser’s ability to do their job. Decluttering also makes the house appear more spacious which can improve the feel they get of the house. When preparing for home appraisal, make sure the sink is clear and seldom-used appliances are off the kitchen counter. In the living room, remove things like magazines, books, and newspapers. Make sure the clothing is properly stored away in the bedrooms and other areas.
Clean. Clean. Clean
Clean the house thoroughly before the home appraisal. A clean house gives the illusion that the apartment is classy and in good condition. If you have lived there for a few years and can afford it, you should consider having professional deep cleaners do it.
Repaint if you need to
If your paint is faded, then you should consider repainting before the home appraisal. A newly painted apartment is attractive, gives the impression that it is well cared for, and therefore has a higher value. You can repaint everywhere or just the necessary places.
5 Tips To Help You Repaint Your House
Fix things up
Take care of the fixes that you can handle and don’t hesitate to spend money hiring someone to take care of it. Simple fixes can go a long way in elevating the value of the house.
Make a list of all upgrades
Make a list of all the upgrades and improvements you have made on the house and remember to point them out to the appraiser. They will take it into account raising the value of the house. Most appraisals will appreciate receiving a detailed list that they can then incorporate into their final home appraisal.
Boost your curb appeal
First impressions matter and the first thing the appraiser will see is the outside of your home. Make sure the exterior is clean and free of clutter. It is generally believed that good landscaping can increase the value of the house so you can consider planting flowers or trees before the home appraisal.
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