Tips to a Successful Home Appraisal
A home appraisal is the opinion of a professional appraiser of the market value of a property. When a decision is made to sell a property, the owner usually seeks the services of an appraiser to get advice that will assist in setting a selling price for the home. The appraiser will consider several aspects of the property before making a decision, including considering the value of the properties that surround it. There are several ways to spruce up a property prior to an appraisal appointment to ensure the highest market value possible.
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Little Things Mean a Lot
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One of the easiest tasks to accomplish is making sure the home is clean and sparkling. Remove clutter, and make sure all flooring, baseboards, walls, mirrors, windows and doors are free of grime and dust. Clean and polish knobs on cabinets, and make sure sinks are sparkling. Don't ignore out-of-reach spaces such as the basement, garage, storage areas and attic. Make sure stored items are minimal and stacked neatly. A messy home gives a poor first impression. If the task seems daunting, hiring a cleaning service for one day to assist in getting the home in tip-top shape.
Ensuring Curb Appeal
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Curb appeal is a positive first impression one gets as the property is approached. The home exterior and surrounding property can be an instant turn off or turn on to a buyer, and the appraiser will consider the home's curb appeal when determining the value of the home. Make sure the lawn is cut and all landscaping neat and free of weeds and clutter. Trim bushes and remove trash barrels from sight. Ensure the exterior of the home is in good shape and that windows are sparkling and clean. If getting an appraisal in the winter months, remove all snow and ice from walkways and the driveway.
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Investing Even Though You're Selling
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Even though you are selling your home, it is a good idea to invest in it if you have one or more large-ticket issues, such as a leaking roof or faulty plumbing, hanging over your head. Invest the money to repair any structural, electrical, plumbing or cosmetic issues prior to the appraisal. A home in sound, move-in condition is more likely to glean top-dollar at selling time. Even small investments like paint, new flooring or lighting fixtures will add significant value to the home.
Learn How to Stage the Home
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Staging a home means setting up each room to emphasize its appearance and appeal. Imagine you've been asked to feature your home in a magazine and must "stage" each room for the photo shoot. Again, clutter is your enemy. Make sure to remove all extras, move furniture so room size is emphasized, dust and polish all surfaces, and place decorative objects minimally and selectively. Some real estate agents offer home staging classes or have a staging service that homeowners can contract for a fee.
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References
- Top7Business: Top 7 Tips for a Successful Appraisal of Your Home
- Lendfast.com: Home Appraisal Tips and Tricks
- Official Bank Loan: Getting Tips for Home Appraisal
- Reliable Appraisers: Increasing the Value of Your Home for Certified Appraisals
- Start Remodeling.com: The Home Appraisal Process
- Home Staging Tips: How to Stage a Home for Sale
- Photo Credit roosevelts home image by Photoeyes from Fotolia.com
