We get it, inviting for an appraisal can feel invasive, and of course, you want to put your best foot forward.
While it’s true that a lack of preparation can sometimes lead to a slightly lower valuation (and a bit more stress), don’t worry, our home appraisal checklist is designed to make the process simple and achievable.
Every step on this list is realistic, straightforward, and focused on helping you feel confident as you head into your appraisal inspection.
Let’s break it down.
What Does an Appraiser Look For?
A licensed appraiser’s main objective when inspecting a home is to determine the objective fair market value. Whether it is the current value or is retro-dated (such as for a date of separation or date of death), the final opinion of value is based on several core factors:
Core Factor
What It Means
Why It Matters
Location
Neighborhood quality, proximity to amenities, and local market trends
Location drives demand. Locally, we are seeing this in Charlotte’s outskirts, like Mooresville and Statesville, as the Charlotte-Metro continues to expand
Size & Layout
Total GLA (gross living area with heating and cooling), number of bathrooms, and overall flow of the home
Larger homes or modern layouts typically appraise higher
Condition
Overall upkeep, age of systems (HVAC, roof, plumbing, etc.), and visible wear of damage
Well-maintained homes signal lower risk for future repairs
Comparable Sales (‘Comps’)
Recent sales of similar homes in your area
Helps the appraiser anchor your home’s value in the current market
Upgrades & Improvements
Renovations, updates, and permitted additions
Adds measureable value when improvements are documented and well-maintained
Market Conditions
Broader housing trends, interest rates, and local supply/demand
External factors that can shift your home’s value up or down, regardless of condition
TAG Tip: A common misconception is that the number of bedrooms directly determines a home’s value. In reality, GLA has a significantly greater impact, regardless of room count. Our rule of thumb? Bedrooms add value up to about three, but beyond that, overall GLA becomes the primary driver of value, regardless of what is considered a ‘bedroom’.
Our Home Appraisal Checklist
Now that you know what appraisers look for, let’s talk about what you can do to get ready.
This home appraisal checklist is designed to help the appraiser assess your property’s true condition and value without distractions or delays.
Most of these steps are quick wins that simply make the process smoother and more accurate.
Exterior Prep
- Tidy up the yard and clear walkways
- Touch up peeling paint or replace missing siding
- Check that exterior lighting works properly
Interior Prep
- Give your home a basic tidy. Clutter-free spaces help the appraiser move form room to room
- Make sure HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems are functional
- Replace any burnt-out bulbs or broken fixtures
- Note any recent upgrades or repairs
Safety and Compliance
- Test smoke and carbon dioxide detectors
- Secure railings, handrails, and loose flooring
- Remove tripping hazards or blocked access points
Documentation to Prepare
- Compile a list of recent upgrades or repairs
- Gather permits for any completed renovations or additions
- Have your previous appraisal (if available) ready for reference
Accessibility for the Appraiser
- Unlock all doors, gates, garages, and utility rooms
- Make sure all rooms, attics, and crawlspaces are accessible
- If you have pets, secure them safely during the appraiser’s visit
TAG Tip: Small fixes can play a hand in your home’s value. Take care of leaky faucets, patch up holes, and touch up paint before your appraisal. A good rule of thumb: if it’s something a new homeowner or tenant would need to fix, it’s worth doing ahead of time to boost your home’s market value.
Top Reasons to Choose Triangle Appraisal Group for Your Home Appraisal
Triangle Appraisal Group (TAG) is a trusted name in residential real estate across North and South Carolina. Here’s why homeowners, lenders, and real estate professionals choose TAG with confidence:
- Local experts serving 40+ counties across North and South Carolina
- Reports delivered fast- typically within 3-5 business days
- Accurate, USPAP-compliant appraisals every time
- Family-run, Carolina-based team since 2008
- Trusted by over 200 lenders, attorneys, and real estate professionals
Need an appraisal you can trust? TAG delivers professional, accurate results every time. TAG us in!
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Thanks for reading! We love sharing insights from the TAG team, and we’re always looking to connect with others who are passionate about real estate, marketing, and community.
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