When interacting with a home appraiser, avoid making statements that could be interpreted as attempts to influence the appraisal outcome or appear unprofessional. The following are key things not to say to an appraiser:

• Do not discuss or suggest a specific value.
  • Avoid comments like “We need it to come in at $X,” “Is it going to come in at this value?” or “Do your best to get the value as high as possible”. These can be seen as attempts to pressure the appraiser and may be considered unethical or even a violation of appraisal regulations.
• Do not compare your home to other sales in a way that suggests the appraiser should match a higher price.
  • Statements like, “A similar home sold for much higher,” or “The contract is for $X, so we’re hoping it appraises at least that,” can make an appraiser defensive and are generally unhelpful.
• Do not express shock or dissatisfaction about the likely appraisal value.
  • Remarks like, “I would be shocked if it didn’t appraise,” or, “I’ll be happy as long as it appraises for at least the sales price,” are inappropriate and may raise suspicions about your motives.
• Do not pressure or suggest future business is contingent on the appraisal value.
  • For example: “You’ll get more work from us if the value comes through,” or any indication of expected favoritism is considered highly unethical and may even be illegal in some contexts.
• Do not follow the appraiser around or distract them unnecessarily.
  • It’s fine to answer their questions and provide factual information, but consistently hovering or trying to direct their focus can be distracting and counterproductive.
• Do not downplay or omit major issues.
  • Hiding or omitting facts about known structural problems can backfire. It’s better to be honest, as appraisers may uncover issues regardless, and openness helps set realistic expectations.

Instead, keep the conversation fact-based and neutral. Focus on answering any questions directly and providing documentation about improvements, unique features, or relevant neighborhood developments when asked. Your goal is to inform, not persuade.