A home appraisal is an objective process — the appraiser is trained to look past surface-level presentation and focus on condition, features, and market data. That said, there are practical things you can do before the appraiser arrives that ensure nothing gets missed and that your home is presented in its best light. Here’s what we recommend as pre-listing steps.
Clean and Declutter
You don’t need to stage your home like it’s on the market, but a clean, organized space makes it easier for the appraiser to move through efficiently and evaluate each room clearly. Cluttered rooms are harder to photograph and can obscure details that matter — like flooring quality, ceiling condition, or the size of a space.
Pay particular attention to:
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Attic access points (make sure the hatch is clear and accessible)
- Crawl space access
- Garage
Make Minor Repairs Beforehand
Small deferred maintenance items can add up in an appraiser’s report. If there are things you’ve been meaning to fix, now is a good time to address them. Common items include:
- Broken or cracked windows
- Dripping faucets or running toilets
- Missing outlet covers or switch plates
- Peeling paint, especially on the exterior
- Damaged door handles or locks
- Loose handrails on staircases
None of these individually tank an appraisal, but a pattern of deferred maintenance can affect the condition rating — which does affect value.
Make Sure All Areas Are Accessible
The appraiser needs to access every area of the home, including spaces that aren’t part of the everyday living area. Before the visit, make sure the following are accessible:
- Attic (clear the access hatch and have a stepladder available if needed)
- Crawl space access panel
- Basement
- All bedrooms and bathrooms
- Any outbuildings or structures being included in the appraisal
If a room or area can’t be accessed, it may have to be noted as unobserved in the report, which can create complications depending on the appraisal’s purpose.
Document Recent Improvements
If you’ve made updates or renovations to the home in the last several years, make a list and have it ready for the appraiser. Include:
- What was done (new roof, kitchen remodel, HVAC replacement, etc.)
- Approximate date of completion
- Approximate cost if you have it
The appraiser can’t give credit for improvements they don’t know about. You don’t need receipts or permits in hand, but a simple written list helps ensure nothing gets overlooked.
Note Any Unique Features
Properties with features that aren’t immediately obvious — a whole-house generator, spray foam insulation, a high-efficiency HVAC system, a recently replaced septic system — may not be visible during a walk-through. Point these out or mention them to the appraiser when they arrive.
What Not to Worry About
- Fresh paint and landscaping help, but don’t expect them to dramatically change your value. Appraisers are trained to see past cosmetic presentation.
- Being home during the visit is fine. You don’t need to follow the appraiser room to room, but feel free to point out things you want them to note.
- Cleaning alone won’t raise your value. What matters is condition, features, square footage, and what comparable properties have sold for. Preparation helps make sure nothing is missed — it doesn’t change the math.
Ready to Schedule?
Mac-Valuations serves Cartersville, Acworth, Kennesaw, Marietta, Woodstock, Dallas, Rome, Calhoun, and communities across 13 counties in Northwest Georgia. Submit a request online or give us a call at (770) 881-6049.