What Not To Tell A Home Appraiser?

What Not To Tell A Home Appraiser?

When interacting with a home appraiser, there are certain things you should avoid saying to ensure the appraisal process remains unbiased and accurate. Here are key points on what not to tell a home appraiser:

Things Not to Say to a Home Appraiser

• Don’t argue about the home’s value or pressure the appraiser: Avoid statements like “I believe the house is worth more,” “Do your best to get the value as high as possible,” or “I’ll be happy as long as it appraises for at least the sales price.” These can be seen as attempts to influence the appraiser, which is inappropriate and unprofessional.
• Avoid citing online estimates or neighbor’s appraisals: Saying “Zillow says my house is worth…” or “The neighbor’s appraisal came in higher” is not helpful, as appraisers rely on their own market research and comparable sales data, not public estimates or other appraisals.
• Don’t insist on using specific comparable sales: Requests like “Use these sales, they are the best comps for this house” can be perceived as trying to steer the appraisal unfairly.
• Avoid discussing or disputing the appraisal process or outcome during the inspection: Appraisers typically won’t discuss their preliminary value with you, and following them around or questioning every detail can be distracting and hinder their work.
• Don’t hide significant issues, but also don’t volunteer unnecessary negative information: While you should not try to hide major problems like foundation issues, unpermitted additions, or previous hazardous uses of the property (e.g., former meth lab, encroachment issues), you also don’t need to overemphasize minor defects. Be honest if asked directly but avoid volunteering information that could unnecessarily lower the value.
• Avoid discussing prior appraisals or scheduling a second appraisal: Statements like “I’ve already scheduled a second appraisal” can undermine the process and suggest dissatisfaction with the current appraisal.

What to Focus on Instead

• Provide factual, relevant information about the home, such as recent improvements, upgrades, or neighborhood characteristics that the appraiser might not easily observe.
• Allow the appraiser to do their job without interference or pressure, and keep the conversation professional and focused on facts rather than opinions or expectations.

In summary, keep your communication with the appraiser factual and neutral, avoid pressuring or influencing them about the home’s value, and be honest about significant issues if asked. This approach helps ensure a fair and accurate appraisal process.

Real Estate Appraisal

Being mindful of what you share during the appraisal process can significantly impact your home’s valuation. If you’re looking to better understand how the process works, explore our detailed guide on Real Estate Appraisal to help you prepare with confidence and maximize your home’s true potential.