What Does An Appraiser Check On A House?

What an Appraiser Checks on a House

A home appraiser conducts a comprehensive assessment to determine the fair market value of a property. This evaluation is crucial for lenders, buyers, and sellers, as it ensures the loan amount does not exceed the property’s true worth. Here’s what an appraiser typically examines during a home appraisal:

General Property Characteristics

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Square footage of living space
• Presence of additional spaces like a basement, attic, or crawl space
• Garage type and capacity
• Lot size and shape

Interior Features and Condition

• Overall condition of the interior, including visible damage, cracks, leaks, or wear and tear
• Flooring, wall, and trim materials and their condition
• Kitchen and bathroom updates, including appliances and fixtures
• Heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems (type and condition)
• Energy-efficient features (e.g., insulated windows, tankless water heaters)
• Safety features like smoke detectors and secure railings

Exterior Features and Condition

• Condition and material of exterior walls, roof, and foundation
• Windows and doors (type, insulation, and condition)
• Landscaping quality and curb appeal
• Outdoor amenities such as patios, decks, pools, or fireplaces

Site and Location Factors

• Location of the property, including neighborhood quality, school district, and proximity to amenities or transportation
• Zoning classification and legal use
• Lot topography and site conditions (e.g., flood zones, hazards)
• Off-site improvements like sidewalks, streetlights, and curbs

Home Improvements and Updates

• Recent renovations or upgrades that may add value (modern kitchens, bathrooms, energy-efficient systems)
• Quality of materials and workmanship for any improvements

Comparative Market Analysis

• Review of comparable home sales (comps) in the area to benchmark value
• Analysis of sales trends, price ranges, and market conditions for similar properties

Other Considerations

• Age of the home and its systems
• Layout and efficiency of the floor plan
• Presence of adverse conditions (e.g., water damage, infestation)
• Any homeowners association (HOA) fees or rental income potential

“Appraisers will generally look for any defects or damages in the general construction of the property; therefore, it’s best if you can preserve the condition or make repairs to these components before the appraisal.”

What Appraisers Do Not Check

• Appraisers do not evaluate interior decorations, furniture, or personal belongings
• They do not perform a detailed inspection of mechanical systems (that’s the role of a home inspector)

Summary Table: Key Areas an Appraiser Checks

Area	What’s Checked
General Property	Size, layout, bedrooms, bathrooms, garage, lot size
Interior	Condition, systems, appliances, finishes, safety
Exterior	Foundation, roof, walls, landscaping, amenities
Site & Location	Neighborhood, zoning, hazards, proximity
Improvements	Renovations, updates, material quality
Market Comparison	Recent sales of similar properties

Understanding these factors can help homeowners prepare for an appraisal and address any issues that could negatively affect the home’s value.

Real Estate Appraisal

Knowing what an appraiser looks for is a key step in understanding the full Real Estate Appraisal process. From the condition of your home to its location and features, every detail plays a role in determining an accurate property value.