Appraisers near you

When looking for a professional to appraise your home, make sure you complete the following steps:

• Verify their license and insurance: Appraisers should have a state-issued license or certification and carry errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. You can also look for designations from professional organizations. Requirements vary by region.

• Get several estimates: A proper estimate should clearly state the total fee and outline the timeline for the property inspection and final report delivery.

• Read their reviews: Good signs in reviews include mentions of professionalism, thoroughness, and clear communication. Red flags may point to inaccurate reports, slow turnaround times, or poor responsiveness.

• Look at their portfolios: Instead of a portfolio, check their experience. Look for an appraiser with a strong track record in your specific neighborhood and with properties similar to yours.

• Find out if they have warranties: Appraisals are professional opinions and don't come with warranties. However, a qualified appraiser adheres to strict professional standards, like the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), which ensures their work is competent and ethical.

• Ask important questions: Before hiring, ask: Are you a state-licensed or certified appraiser? What is your experience appraising homes in my neighborhood? What is your typical turnaround time for the report?

Before your pro arrives to complete your appraisal, take these steps:

1. Clear the way. Make sure the appraiser can easily access all areas of your property, including the attic, basement, and garage. Unlocking doors and clearing pathways ahead of time helps the inspection go smoothly.

2. Gather your documents. Have any relevant paperwork ready, like your property survey, recent tax bills, and a list of home improvements. This information gives them a more complete picture of your home's value.

3. Tidy up. You don’t need to deep clean, but a tidy home makes it easier for the appraiser to assess the property’s condition. Focus on decluttering so they can see the floors, walls, and fixtures clearly.

4. List recent upgrades. Jot down any major improvements you’ve made, like a new roof or updated kitchen, along with the year they were completed. This helps ensure you get credit for the work you’ve done.

5. Secure your pets. For everyone’s safety and to prevent distractions, it’s best to keep pets in a separate room or crate. This allows the appraiser to focus on their work without interruptions.

Your appraiser will likely start with a thorough inspection of your property, both inside and out. The appraiser should take detailed measurements, photograph each room and any notable features, and assess the home’s overall condition. You should also be ready to answer questions about the property’s history, any recent renovations, or the age of major systems like the roof and HVAC, as this information helps them prepare an accurate valuation report.

You should get your home appraised when you’re selling, refinancing, applying for a home equity loan, or settling an estate or divorce. An appraisal gives an objective estimate of your home’s current market value, which lenders often require. It can also be helpful before listing your home to price it competitively or after major renovations to understand how improvements affected value. If local market conditions have changed significantly, an updated appraisal can give you a clearer financial picture.

There are several factors that might impact the cost of hiring an appraiser, including:

• Property type: Appraising a single-family home usually costs less than a multi-unit building, commercial property, or a large plot of land.

• Appraisal scope: The level of detail you need can change the price. A simple exterior-only appraisal, for example, is typically less expensive than a full inspection that includes the interior.

• Property complexity: A home with unique architecture, a very large square footage, or other unusual features can take more time to research, which may increase the cost.

• Report purpose: The reason for the appraisal matters. A report for a mortgage refinance often has different requirements and costs than one for estate planning, tax appeals, or divorce proceedings.

• Turnaround time: If you need the report sooner than the appraiser's standard delivery time, you may have to pay an extra fee for an expedited service.

Several things may lower a home appraisal. Obvious issues like structural damage, roof problems, outdated electrical or plumbing systems, and poor maintenance are common red flags. Cosmetic neglect — peeling paint, damaged flooring, clutter — can also hurt perceived value. Location factors matter too, such as nearby foreclosures, heavy traffic, or declining neighborhood conditions. Unpermitted renovations or additions may not be counted in the value. Keeping up with repairs, documenting upgrades, and presenting a clean, well-maintained home can help support a stronger appraisal.

It's best to avoid telling an appraiser your opinion of the home's value or how much you need from the sale. Appraisers should remain objective, so trying to influence their assessment isn't helpful. Instead, provide a list of recent upgrades and be available to answer their questions.