Whether you’re buying a home or refinancing your current one, the appraisal plays an important role in the mortgage process. While homeowners can’t control the housing market or comparable sales, there are several simple steps that can help present your home in its best possible light and ensure the appraiser has the information they need.
Here’s what you should know about home appraisals—and how to make the most of yours.
What Is a Home Appraisal?
A home appraisal is an independent assessment of a property’s current market value. Mortgage lenders use the appraisal to confirm that the home’s value supports the loan amount being requested.
Depending on the loan program and underwriting requirements, the lender may require one of several valuation methods:
- Appraisal Waiver or Desktop Review: In some cases, automated underwriting determines that a full in-person appraisal isn’t necessary. The lender may use available property data and recent comparable sales to establish the home’s value.
- Exterior-Only (Drive-By) Appraisal: An appraiser inspects the property’s exterior and reviews neighborhood sales and market data.
- Full Interior Appraisal: The appraiser visits the property, evaluates both the interior and exterior, takes photographs, measures the home, documents its condition and features, and compares it to recently sold homes nearby.
The type of appraisal required depends on the specific loan and the results returned by the lender’s underwriting system.
Can You Increase Your Appraisal Value?
You can’t renovate your way to an overnight jump in market value, and appraisers are required to follow strict professional guidelines. However, presenting your home in excellent condition and providing accurate information about improvements can make a meaningful difference.
Here are some of the best ways to maximize your home’s appraisal.
1. Boost Your Curb Appeal
First impressions matter.
Before the appraiser arrives, spend a little time making the exterior of your home look its best:
- Mow and edge the lawn
- Trim shrubs and trees
- Remove weeds and yard debris
- Clean walkways and driveways
- Power wash siding, decks, and patios if needed
- Touch up peeling paint or damaged trim
- Make sure your house numbers are clearly visible
A well-maintained exterior immediately communicates that the home has been cared for.
2. Deep Clean Every Room
A clean home won’t automatically increase its appraised value, but it can positively influence the overall impression of the property’s condition.
Consider:
- Professionally cleaning carpets
- Washing windows
- Dusting ceiling fans and baseboards
- Removing clutter from countertops
- Organizing storage areas
- Eliminating pet odors or lingering smells
The goal is to help the appraiser easily evaluate your home’s features without distractions.
3. Address Minor Repairs
Small maintenance issues can suggest deferred upkeep.
Before the appraisal, take care of simple fixes such as:
- Replacing burned-out light bulbs
- Repairing leaky faucets
- Fixing loose handrails
- Patching nail holes
- Replacing broken switch plates
- Repairing cracked caulking around tubs and sinks
These inexpensive improvements help reinforce that the home has been properly maintained.
4. Freshen Up the Interior
If your walls are heavily scuffed or painted in very dated or bold colors, a fresh coat of neutral paint can make rooms feel brighter and more inviting.
While cosmetic updates don’t always translate directly into higher value, they can improve the home’s overall presentation.
5. Create a List of Recent Improvements
One of the most valuable things you can do is provide the appraiser with a written list of upgrades you’ve completed.
Include improvements such as:
- New roof
- HVAC replacement
- Kitchen renovations
- Bathroom remodels
- New windows
- Flooring updates
- Solar panels
- Finished basement
- Deck or patio additions
- Energy-efficient upgrades
If possible, include the approximate dates and costs of each project.
6. Share Helpful Market Information
Appraisers research comparable home sales, but there may occasionally be recent transactions they haven’t yet seen—particularly private sales or very recent closings.
If you’re aware of nearby sales that closely resemble your home, mention them respectfully. The appraiser will determine whether they’re appropriate to consider, but providing additional information can be helpful.
Remember: The Market Ultimately Determines Value
While preparing your home is worthwhile, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Appraisers rely primarily on comparable sales, neighborhood trends, location, square footage, condition, and features when determining value.
Your preparation won’t override the market—but it can help ensure your home is accurately represented.
Thinking About Refinancing or Buying?
Whether you’re purchasing your next home or exploring a refinance, the experienced team at Jet Direct Mortgage can help you understand every step of the mortgage process—including what to expect from your appraisal.
Contact Jet Direct Mortgage today to discuss your home financing goals and learn about the loan options available to you.
Experienced Chief Operating Officer with a 26 + year demonstrated history of working in the banking industry. Skilled in all aspects of the residential mortgage market . Strong business development professional with a Bachelor of Science (BS) focused in Business Administration and Management, from St. Joseph College. A direct endorsement underwriter and a licensed Mortgage Loan Originator.