What Does an Appraiser Check on a House?

Size and layout

These are examples an appraiser may observe or research. The agreed scope determines what is needed. A valuation visit is not a promise to test each item or uncover hidden defects; ask about access before the visit.

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Square footage of living space
• Presence of additional spaces like a basement, attic, or crawl space
• Garage type and capacity
• Lot size and shape

Inside the home

• Overall condition of the interior, including visible damage, cracks, leaks, or wear and tear
• Flooring, wall, and trim materials and their condition
• Kitchen and bathroom updates, including appliances and fixtures
• Heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical systems, as observed within the scope rather than a detailed system test
• Energy-efficient features (e.g., insulated windows, tankless water heaters)
• Visible safety-related features, such as railings, when relevant; the visit is not a safety inspection

Outside the home

• Visible exterior condition and materials, which may include walls, roof and foundation; this is not a structural or roof inspection
• Windows and doors (type, insulation, and condition)
• Landscaping quality and curb appeal
• Outdoor amenities such as patios, decks, pools, or fireplaces

The lot and location

Have the municipality, block and lot from your deed or tax record if available. Our county property guide links to local records. Mention acreage, additional structures and access limits.

• Location of the property, including neighborhood quality, school district, and proximity to amenities or transportation
• Zoning classification and legal use
• Lot topography and site conditions (e.g., flood zones, hazards)
• Off-site improvements like sidewalks, streetlights, and curbs

Improvements and updates

• Recent renovations or upgrades that may add value (modern kitchens, bathrooms, energy-efficient systems)
• Quality of materials and workmanship for any improvements

Comparable sales and market evidence

• Review of comparable home sales (comps) in the area to benchmark value
• Analysis of sales trends, price ranges, and market conditions for similar properties

Other property details

• Age of the home and its systems
• Layout and efficiency of the floor plan
• Presence of adverse conditions (e.g., water damage, infestation)
• Any homeowners association (HOA) fees or rental income potential

Tell the appraiser about known defects and work already completed. If a repair estimate or a specialist’s findings are available, share them. Ask about the assignment’s requirements before deciding that repairs must be completed first.

What the visit does not cover

• Appraisers do not evaluate interior decorations, furniture, or personal belongings
• They do not perform a detailed inspection of mechanical systems (that’s the role of a home inspector)

A quick guide to the visit

Area	Examples that may be considered
General Property	Size, layout, bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, lot size
Interior	Visible condition, finishes and features within the agreed scope
Exterior	Visible exterior condition, landscaping and amenities
Site & Location	Neighborhood, zoning, hazards, proximity
Improvements	Renovations, updates, material quality
Market Comparison	Recent sales of similar properties

You do not need to make the house look like a showroom. Focus on access and accurate information. Gather records you already have, point out known problems and ask what the appraiser needs before arranging repairs just for the visit.

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Make the visit useful

Provide access instructions and records of additions, major repairs and improvements. Point out known concerns and areas that cannot be entered. Ask what the appraiser needs to see; do not assume the valuation visit includes testing every system or finding concealed defects.