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Tips on preparing for your appraisal... |
Inside Tips |
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Although a home’s value is primarily determined by size, location, and environmental factors, the physical appearance and maintenance of your home can greatly effect the market value. Even if certain items may not increase your overall property value, they can assist in selling your home faster. Some key areas to keep in mind as you are preparing your home and property for your appraisal are:
Accessibility: Make sure that the appraiser can get to all areas of the home, including the attic and crawl space.
Document availability: It is beneficial to have the following documents available to assist the appraiser during the appraisal process:
- A copy of the last appraisal prepared for the property
- The most recent real estate tax bill
- If available, a survey or plot maps of the land
- Details about latest purchase of the property in the last three years
- Any written property agreements such as shared maintenance agreements for property drive ways or streets
- Details of any homeowners association fees and regulations
- Titles for any encroachments or easements
- Home inspection reports including recent termite inspection reports
- A lists of major home improvements and upgrades detailing dates and costs
- A list of any personal property to be sold with the home
Appearance - Most appraisers will look past a little dirt and clutter, but a good impression can translate into a higher home value. Some areas to focus on include:
- General tidiness - Make sure your home is as neat and clutter free as possible. You want to be sure the appraiser has enough space in each room to work as quickly and efficiently as possible. You also want to make sure everything is as clean as possible, especially the kitchen and bathroom(s). Even if though this may not increase the value the appraiser puts on your home, it will increase the desirability of the home when it is put on the market.
- Carpets - Even if your carpet is older and a bit worn, make sure it is as clean and spot-free as possible. You may want to rent an inexpensive steam cleaner and give the carpet in your home a quick cleaning.
Maintenance: Although an appraisal is not a home inspection, it can be helpful to have minor maintenance items in good order when the appraiser arrives. Some things that can easily be seen that should be taken care of are:
- Leaky faucets
- Missing door handles
- Missing or damaged trim
- Loose or missing handrails on stairways
- Removal of peeling paint and a quick touch up on those spots
- Remove any marks from walls and touch up any cracks
- Check that all smoke detectors are working on all levels of the home and replace them if they are broken