Getting a property valuation, also known as an appraisal, allows you to understand your home’s current market value. This is extremely useful information when you are looking to sell your home, refinance your mortgage, or access your home equity. A proper valuation can save or make you money.
Taking time to prepare for the property appraiser’s visit ensures your home is accurately assessed and valuated at its maximum worth. Here are some in-depth tips and tricks to prepare your home to shine and highlight all of its best features:
Do a Deep Clean from Top to Bottom
The first step is to thoroughly clean the interior and exterior of your home. You’ll want to make every room spotless and let the natural light shine in. Clean all your windows and window treatments to really make the space sparkle. Give the floors, counters, appliances and fixtures a deep scrub. Don’t forget the walls and ceilings – look for any dust or cobwebs in corners. It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do as well.
Inspect the exterior just as closely. Power wash outdoor surfaces like siding, decks, patios and walkways. Clean out landscaping beds and prune overgrown trees and shrubs. Wash outdoor furniture and light fixtures. Your goal is to make your house look brand new and move-in ready.
Clear Out Clutter to Showcase Space
An appraiser needs to get a true sense of the size and flow of each room. Remove all excess furnishings and personal items like family photos, anything that distracts from the space itself. Edit closets and storage areas so contents are neatly organised. The appraiser will open cabinets, so tidy up any messy areas.
Minimal décor helps rooms appear more spacious and airy. Store away extra furniture like side tables, chairs and ottomans. Make beds and keep counters clear. A decluttered home highlights the square footage and showcases clean lines.
Make Any Minor Repairs
Inspect your home closely for required fixes and attend to them before the appraiser arrives. Small repairs make a difference in the overall presentation. Tighten loose door knobs, fix leaky faucets, replace burnt out lightbulbs, patch holes in walls. Repair squeaky cabinet doors and sticky windows. Replace cracked tiles and secure loose railings. Fresh caulk around tubs, showers and sinks keeps them looking new.
Strategically Update and Upgrade
Look at your budget to make a few smart upgrades that maximise value. Kitchen and bathroom renovations offer the highest return on investment. Upgrade cabinets, counters, sinks, faucets and lighting fixtures. New flooring goes a long way too. Swap out dated sliding glass doors for French doors. Update interior and exterior paint colours in current versatile neutrals.
Curb appeal matters as well. Pressure wash exterior surfaces and paint or stain wood trims and fences. Plant colourful flowers and add accent lighting. A new front door makes a statement too.
