If you’re nearing the finish line of your mortgage journey—congratulations!
One of the final and most important steps before your loan is finalized is the home appraisal inspection.
This process determines whether the property you’re buying (or refinancing) is worth your borrowing amount.
While your lender arranges the appraisal, how you prepare for home appraisal day can greatly influence the experience—and potentially the final valuation.
An appraiser will assess your home’s condition, features, and overall quality and compare it to similar properties in your area to determine its fair market value.
A clean, well-maintained, and easily accessible home helps the appraiser work efficiently and may contribute to a smoother approval process.
To help you feel confident and ready, here are five essential tips to prepare for home appraisal success.
1. Tidy Up the Interior and Exterior
First impressions matter—even for appraisers.
A clean and organized home tells the appraiser that the property is well-maintained.
It won’t increase your home’s appraised value directly, but it can reduce the likelihood of the appraiser noting issues that could negatively affect the report.
Interior Preparation Tips:
- Clean all rooms thoroughly, especially kitchens and bathrooms.
- Declutter countertops, tables, and shelves.
- Vacuum carpets and polish the floors.
- Ensure windows are clean and unobstructed.
- Eliminate odours and ventilate the space well.
Exterior Preparation Tips:
- Mow the lawn and trim any overgrown shrubs or trees.
- Remove debris, garbage bins, and any items that detract from curb appeal.
- Clean the driveway and walkways.
- Make sure the front entrance is welcoming and accessible.
By creating a clean and presentable environment, you’re helping the appraiser focus on the property’s actual features and condition, not superficial distractions.
2. Complete Minor Repairs
Addressing any minor issues you’ve been putting off before the appraiser visits is a smart idea.
Small, visible problems can suggest poor maintenance and raise red flags.
Common repairs to complete:
- Fix leaking or dripping faucets.
- Repair any cracked windows or broken tiles.
- Patch holes or marks in walls and repaint if needed.
- Replace burned-out lightbulbs.
- Tighten loose doorknobs, cabinet handles, or handrails.
- Make sure all smoke detectors are functional and installed properly.
These repairs don’t require major expense or time but can make a big difference in how your home is perceived.
3. Ensure Easy Access Throughout the Home
The appraiser needs to access every part of the property, including areas you might not usually consider.
If they can’t reach a room or feature, it may delay the process or lead to an incomplete report.
Make sure to:
- Unlock gates, doors, and garages.
- Provide access to attics, basements, crawl spaces, and mechanical rooms.
- Move large furniture or objects blocking important features (electrical panel, HVAC, water heater).
- Secure pets or keep them off-site during the appointment.
Moving through the home easily allows the appraiser to do a complete inspection quickly and accurately.
4. Prepare a List of Upgrades or Renovations
Recent upgrades and renovations can impact your appraised value, especially if they improve the home’s efficiency, safety, or aesthetics.
Don’t assume the appraiser will know what’s new or upgraded—tell them.
Create a one-page summary that includes:
- Description of upgrades (e.g., new roof, HVAC system, kitchen remodel)
- The date the work was completed
- Approximate cost of each improvement
- Before and after photos, if available
- Receipts or warranties for high-value upgrades
If you’ve added square footage, installed smart home tech, or upgraded energy efficiency, make sure that information is highlighted.
5. Have Property Info Ready
In addition to your list of upgrades, general property information is helpful.
The more context the appraiser has, the more accurate the valuation.
Useful documents to provide:
- Property survey (if available)
- Most recent property tax assessment
- Condo or maintenance fee information (if applicable)
- Details on any rental units or income-producing spaces
- Previous appraisals or evaluations (if available)
Also be ready to answer questions such as:
- When was the home built?
- Have there been any recent repairs or insurance claims?
- What makes the property unique compared to others in the area?
Transparency builds trust and helps the appraiser capture the full value of your home.
Final Thoughts to Prepare for Home Appraisal
Preparing for a home appraisal doesn’t need to be stressful, but it requires attention to detail.
By following these five tips—cleaning thoroughly, fixing minor issues, ensuring access, organizing upgrade records, and gathering key property info—you give your home the best chance to shine.
Remember: the appraiser isn’t trying to “grade” your home, but rather evaluate its market value objectively.
Your preparation simply ensures that nothing is overlooked and that your home puts its best foot forward.
If you have any questions before your appraisal, don’t hesitate to contact your approvU Mortgage Expert.
We’re here to help you every step of the way.
