How to Prepare for an Appraisal
To help the appraisal go as smoothly as possible we generally recommend you take the following actions and prepare the listed documents, if available, for the appraiser.This helps ensure nothing is missed and everything that could effect the appraised value of your property is properly accounted for. A clean house is always nice, but don't stress if it's not, we understand people actually live in their house.
Checklist:
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Unlock all padlocks on the property.
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Make sure all areas of the home are accessible.
- Ensure tenants are properly notified and will grant access. We highly encourage landlords or an authorized agent to be onsite for appraisals. This helps to alleviate any issues which may arise and to ensure we do not have to make a follow-up trip, which does constitute an additional fee.
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Remove any snow that will prevent access to the property (if applicable for mountain communities).
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Verify lock box combination and access keys are accessible.
- Ensure attic, crawlspace, water heater is open/accessible, as I will need to take a few quick pictures of each.
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Safety equipment (CO and smoke detector(s)) in house installed and working properly.
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Outbuildings such as garages, sheds, pool houses, cabanas, etc. need to be accessible.
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Confirm heating and air conditioning are operational.
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Ensure home appliances are in working condition. If it is in the house, it needs to work.
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Address any exposed wiring in living area and install face plates covers if missing.
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Repair small things like leaky faucets, missing door handles, and chipping or peeling paint.
- Contain pets if they are aggressive only. Otherwise, it's their house too! Plus, we love animals.
Documents:
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Copy of original house plans if available.Especially for very large and custom homes.
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Information on any written private agreements, such as a shared driveway with a neighbor.
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A list of any personal property that is part of the home and you intend to be sold with the home, such as an oven, a washer and dryer, or things like woodshop or other equipment. (We are NOT chattel appraisers, so if you are including personal property in the sale, we will need to see that official report or the item will NOT be included in the value)
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Title policy that lists encroachments or easements (If applicable).
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Any inspection reports, or other recent reports for termites, EIFS (synthetic stucco) wall systems, your septic system and your well.
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A list of any major home improvements and enhancements (for example, the addition of central air conditioning or roof repairs). Please include the purchase and installation date, along with permit confirmation if available.
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If applicable, provide the condominium budget and year-end statement.
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