How to Prepare for an Appraisal

To help the appraisal go as smoothly as possible we generally recommend you take the following actions and prepare the listed documents, if available, for the appraiser.

Checklist:

  • Unlock all padlocks on the property.
  • Make sure all areas of the home (and any accessory dwellings) are accessible.
  • If relevant, verify lock box combination and access keys are accessible.
  • Remove locks, furniture, clothing, boxes, or anything that may prevent entry to the attic, crawl spaces, furnace, and water heater. (FHA/VA appraisals only)
  • Remove unneeded clutter from attic and crawl space so areas are accessible. (FHA/VA appraisals only)
  • Safety equipment in house installed and working properly (Smoke Alarms, CO Detectors are required if you have gas appliances, a fireplace or an attached garage).
  • Outbuildings such as garages, sheds, pool houses, cabanas, etc. need to be accessible.
  • Ensure furnace and water heater are accessible.
  • Confirm heating, air conditioning and pool equipment (if applicable) are operational.
  • Address any exposed wiring in living areas and install faceplates covers if missing.
  • Repair small things like leaky faucets, missing door handles, and trim. (Recommendation) (FHA/VA)

Documents:

  • A survey or plot map of the property and building (if readily available).
  • Information on any written private agreements, such as a shared driveway with a neighbor.
  • Title policy that lists encroachments or easements.
  • Most recent real estate tax bill and or legal description of the property.
  • Most recent HOA bill (where applicable)
  • For HOA's: total number of homes/units in the community, number of rentals, is there pending litigation, number of owners with past due HOA fees
  • Any inspection reports, or other recent reports (within the past year) for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, your septic system and your well.
  • A list of any major home improvements and enhancements completed within the past 15 years and the date of completion (for example, remodeled or updated kitchen or bathrooms, additions to living space, the addition of central air conditioning or roof repairs).
Download Checklist