A Home Appraisal Checklist

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🏡 A Home Appraisal Checklist: What Sellers & Buyers Need to Know

When you’re buying or refinancing a home, a home appraisal checklist is one of the most important tools you can use to stay prepared. Whether you’re trying to get the most value out of your sale or ensure your mortgage approval goes smoothly, knowing how to prepare can make a real difference in your results.

Here’s your essential home appraisal checklist to help you get ready and avoid common pitfalls.

✅ What Is a Home Appraisal?

A home appraisal is a professional estimate of a property’s market value, conducted by a licensed appraiser. Lenders require appraisals to ensure the home’s value aligns with the loan amount. If you’re applying for an FHA, VA, or conventional loan, the appraisal can directly impact your approval and terms.

📖 Learn more about what a home appraisal is from the CFPB

🛠️ A Home Appraisal Checklist: 5 Key Areas to Review

1. Exterior Curb Appeal

  • Clean the yard and driveway

  • Repaint chipped areas

  • Repair cracked walkways

  • Trim overgrown bushes and trees

2. Interior Condition

  • Fix leaky faucets and broken light fixtures

  • Patch holes in walls

  • Repaint with neutral colors

  • Clean carpets and floors

3. Safety & Code Compliance

  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

  • Check handrails on stairs

  • Confirm all electrical outlets function properly

4. Upgrades & Renovations

  • Prepare a list of improvements (new roof, HVAC, flooring, etc.)

  • Include receipts and install dates if possible

5. Comparable Sales (Comps)

  • Provide your agent or appraiser with recent home sales in your area

  • Especially important if your home has unique features

💡 Pro Tips to Maximize Your Appraisal Value

  • Tidy up! Clean homes feel better maintained

  • Be available to answer appraiser questions — but don’t hover

  • Highlight energy-efficient upgrades or new appliances

  • Don’t neglect the garage, basement, or attic

📝 What Hurts a Home Appraisal?

  • Outdated kitchens or bathrooms

  • Poor maintenance or visible repair needs

  • Unpermitted additions or structures

  • Location near high-traffic areas or nuisances

👇 First-Time Homebuyers, Take Note

If you’re a first time homebuyer, understanding the role of a home appraisal checklist is critical. From budgeting to closing, your appraisal can influence what you qualify for and how much you can borrow.
👉 Visit our First-Time Homebuyer Guide to learn everything you need to know — including how Menage Mortgage supports you every step of the way.

💬 Final Thoughts

Your home appraisal can influence your loan terms, home equity, and sales outcome. Taking time to prepare your home makes a big difference. Whether you’re buying, selling, or refinancing, a little preparation goes a long way.

At Menage Mortgage, we guide you through every step of the home loan process — including what to expect during the appraisal.

📞 Need Help Preparing for a Home Loan?

Contact Menage Mortgage Inc. today for expert guidance on FHA, VA, and conventional loans in Florida and Texas.
📍 Jacksonville, FL | 📞 (904) 892-7260 | 🌐 menagemortgage.com

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