Local Market information

I get asked this question several times a week so I decided to outline a few things that make my job, and that of other appraisers a little easier.

Depending on the size of your home a typical appraisal inspection should take approximately twenty to sixty minutes. 

My routine is as follows:

First I will take photos and measure the exterior of the home.  Next I'll go inside and normally start on the top level of your home.  A 1.5 or 2 story dwelling may require some interior measuring, a one story home generally will not require measuring on the interior.  I will make notations of all the rooms and locations for the sketch, then walk back through and take individual notes on each room.  Some lenders require interior photos and sometimes I will elect to take photos to give the reader a better idea of the home's quality or condition.  The last step in my appraisal process is to take a minute to discuss any updates or improvements recently made to the property or ask any questions I may have about the property.

What can I do to get ready for the appraiser?  

1.Work with the appraiser on appointment times.

We make every effort to accommodate clients to meet reasonable appointment times. Of course, we are restricted by daylight hours and when rates get lower or the real estate sales market is booming, our flexibility can be decreased somewhat.  A lot of people worry about clutter and want to take a few days to clean house.  Clutter alone need not be a concern and will not affect your appraisal.

 2.Large dogs should be handled by owner/occupant and not left unattended while the appraiser is trying to measure the house.  This is not normally a problem but, if you know your dog is likely to pester new people, it would be a good idea keep the dog occupied so the appraiser can do his/her job.

3.Improvements to property.

If you have made significant improvements since purchasing your home or in the past couple of years, take some time and write them down.  I will normally ask this question at the time of the appraisal inspection and more often than not, the homeowner will call me back after I have left to tell me of other improvements they forgot to tell me about.  I suggest writing down any improvements or updates before the appraisal inspection and provide a copy to the appraiser for reference when she/he is assembling your appraisal report. 

 Hopefully this will give you an idea of what to expect and how you can make your appraiser's job a little easier.