By Joseph T Ellington Jr – Licensed Residential Appraiser, Capital Valuations. Updated September 2026.
A seven-day plan for a home appraisal appointment
If you have a week before an appraisal, use that time to gather accurate property facts and arrange access. There is no seven-day recipe for increasing value. This timeline is an organizing tool; the appraiser’s scope and deadline may differ by assignment.
| When | Homeowner task | Useful result |
|---|---|---|
| Seven to five days ahead | Confirm who ordered the appraisal, purpose, date and access contact | Clear expectations |
| Four to three days ahead | Collect improvement dates, permits, surveys and HOA records where available | A factual document packet |
| Two days ahead | Confirm access to attic, garage, detached buildings and mechanical areas if relevant and safe | Fewer access surprises |
| Visit day | Secure pets, describe unusual features, provide documents | A more complete observation |
| Afterward | Send any missing factual records through the appropriate channel | A documented follow-up |
First confirm who the client is
For a mortgage transaction, the lender generally orders and receives the appraisal. Fannie Mae’s independence rules govern appraiser selection for loans it purchases. A private pre-listing or estate assignment has a different client and intended use. Tell the appraiser what the report is for; do not assume one appraisal can simply be reused for another lender or legal purpose.
What if you have only 24 hours?
Prioritize access, a short list of completed improvements with dates, and a candid description of unusual or damaged areas. Skip the expensive last-minute cosmetic changes promoted as a way to “maximize” an appraisal. Our repair versus document guide explains that decision.
What happens after the inspection?
Property observation is one part of an appraisal. The appraiser may verify public records and sales, analyze comparable properties, and complete the report after leaving. Do not infer the value from how long the visit took. For covered mortgage applications, the CFPB explains when borrowers receive a copy from the lender.
Three paths, three different questions
- Mortgage appraisal: follow your lender’s instructions and ask it about delivery and review.
- Pre-listing appraisal: define the sale decision and intended user before the assignment; see our pre-listing service.
- Estate or divorce appraisal: specify the property interest, effective date, and intended user with the appropriate professional.
For a more detailed day-of checklist, see what to expect at the visit. To discuss a private Hampton Roads assignment, contact Joe at Capital Valuations.
