What an Appraiser Checks on a House
A home appraiser develops a value opinion using property information and relevant market evidence. The assignment determines the observations and report needed.
General Property Characteristics
Number of bedrooms and bathroomsSquare footage of living spacePresence of additional spaces like a basement, attic, or crawl spaceGarage type and capacityLot size and shapeInterior Features and Condition
Overall condition of the interior, including visible damage, cracks, leaks, or wear and tearFlooring, wall, and trim materials and their conditionKitchen and bathroom updates, including appliances and fixturesHeating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems (type and condition)Energy-efficient features (e.g., insulated windows, tankless water heaters)Safety features like smoke detectors and secure railingsExterior Features and Condition
Condition and material of exterior walls, roof, and foundationWindows and doors (type, insulation, and condition)Landscaping quality and curb appealOutdoor amenities such as patios, decks, pools, or fireplacesSite and Location Factors
Location, nearby land uses, access to amenities and transportation.Zoning classification and legal useLot topography and site conditions (e.g., flood zones, hazards)Off-site improvements like sidewalks, streetlights, and curbsHome Improvements and Updates
Recent renovations or upgrades that may add value (modern kitchens, bathrooms, energy-efficient systems)Quality of materials and workmanship for any improvementsComparative Market Analysis
Review of comparable home sales (comps) in the area to benchmark valueAnalysis of sales trends, price ranges, and market conditions for similar propertiesOther Considerations
Age of the home and its systemsLayout and efficiency of the floor planPresence of adverse conditions (e.g., water damage, infestation)Any homeowners association (HOA) fees or rental income potentialWhat Appraisers Do Not Check
Appraisers do not evaluate interior decorations, furniture, or personal belongingsThey do not perform a detailed inspection of mechanical systems (that’s the role of a home inspector)Summary Table: Key Areas an Appraiser Checks
| Area | What’s Checked |
|---|
| General Property | Size, layout, bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, lot size |
| Interior | Condition, systems, appliances, finishes, safety |
| Exterior | Foundation, roof, walls, landscaping, amenities |
| Site & Location | Neighborhood, zoning, hazards, proximity |
| Improvements | Renovations, updates, material quality |
| Market Comparison | Recent sales of similar properties |
Understanding these factors can help homeowners prepare for an appraisal and address any issues that could negatively affect the home’s value.