Key takeaways
- Address deferred maintenance before the appraisal visit.
- Stage rooms to highlight natural light and space.
- Provide comps and upgrade lists to the appraiser.
Handle repairs first
Fix leaks, worn finishes, and any visible deferred maintenance so the property shows pride of ownership.
Service HVAC systems and gather receipts to share with the appraiser.
Stage for the story you want to tell
Declutter, neutralize décor, and focus on curb appeal to support a higher value.
Create a one-page summary of improvements completed in the past five years with estimated costs.
Schedule strategically
Book the appraisal once cosmetic updates wrap up and comparable sales are strong.
If the value comes in lower than expected, request a reconsideration with additional comps or contractor bids.
Action plan
Knock out repairs, stage the home, and coordinate your appraisal window for maximum impact.
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