What to Expect During the Home Appraisal Process

You’ve accepted an offer—congrats! But before the deal closes, one crucial step can make or break it: the home appraisal. Whether you’re a first-time seller or a seasoned pro, understanding how this process works (and how to prepare) can help protect your deal and your asking price.

📊 What Is a Home Appraisal?

A home appraisal is an independent estimate of your home’s market value, typically required by the buyer’s lender to ensure the property is worth the agreed-upon purchase price. The lender uses it to determine how much they’re willing to lend.

🔍 How It Works

Here’s what happens once the appraisal is ordered:

1. The lender selects a licensed appraiser (you don't choose them)
2. The appraiser schedules a visit to your home
3. They conduct a physical inspection and take measurements and photos
4. They analyze recent sales of comparable properties (“comps”)
5. A final appraisal report is submitted to the lender (and shared with the buyer)

This usually takes about 7–10 days.

🧼 How to Prepare Your Home

The appraisal isn’t as intense as a buyer showing—but it’s still important to make your home look its best.

• Clean and declutter to show pride of ownership
• Highlight any recent upgrades or improvements
• Provide a list of features (HVAC age, new roof, appliances, etc.)
• Make sure all areas of the home are accessible, including the attic and basement

💡 Tip: Leave a note with comps or multiple offers received if your home sold quickly—it may help support your price.

❓ What If It Comes in Low?

A low appraisal doesn’t automatically kill the deal, but it can trigger some tough decisions. Options include:

• Renegotiating the price with the buyer
• Asking the buyer to pay the difference in cash
• Challenging the appraisal with better comps
• Cancelling the deal (based on financing or appraisal contingencies)

This is why pricing your home right from the start matters.

✅ What If It Comes in At or Above?

Great news—you’re one step closer to closing. The buyer’s loan will move forward, and you’re on track to wrap up the sale.