6 Appraisal Tips

If you're buying a home or refinancing, one of the final steps is often the appraisal. Most homeowners assume the appraiser is only determining the home's value.

But there's another important part of the process.

The appraiser is also looking for health and safety concerns that could delay your loan. Missing just one required item could mean a second inspection, extra fees, and a delayed closing.

The good news? Most issues are inexpensive and easy to fix before the appraiser arrives.

1. Test Your Smoke Detectors

Working smoke detectors are one of the easiest items to overlook.

Replace dead batteries and make sure every required detector is installed and functioning properly.

A five-minute check today could save days of waiting later.

2. Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

If your home has a gas appliance, fireplace, or attached garage, a carbon monoxide detector is generally required.

Test it before your appointment and replace batteries if needed.

3. Inspect Your Water Heater

Water heaters often receive extra attention during an appraisal.

Look for:

• Two earthquake straps (where required)

• A properly installed pressure relief drain line

• Any obvious leaks

These simple safety items are commonly noted during inspections.

4. Check Bedroom Security Bars

If your bedroom windows have security bars, make sure they include a working interior emergency release.

This is an important life safety feature.

5. Remove Large Appliances from Outdoor Areas

Refrigerators, freezers, washers, or dryers sitting outside on patios or porches may need to be removed before the inspection.

This is another item that's easy to fix ahead of time.

6. Take Care of Small Safety Repairs

Before the appraiser arrives, take a quick walk around your property.

Look for:

• Broken handrails

• Loose steps

• Missing light fixtures

• Peeling paint on older homes

• Obvious trip hazards

Many of these repairs take less than an hour but can help keep your loan moving forward.

Final Thoughts

An appraisal shouldn't be stressful.

Spending just 30 minutes checking these common items can help prevent unnecessary delays, extra inspection fees, and last-minute surprises.

If you're preparing to refinance or buy a home and have questions about what an appraiser may look for, I'm always happy to help.