By Joseph T Ellington Jr – Licensed Residential Appraiser, Capital Valuations. Updated September 2026.
Your home appraisal appointment: what happens and how to get ready
This guide is about the visit itself: access, safety, questions, and what follows. If you need help assembling renovation records and floor plans, use our separate document packet guide.
Before the visit
- Confirm the address, appointment window, entry instructions, and contact person.
- Provide safe access to living areas, mechanical systems, basement or crawlspace where appropriate, garage, and detached improvements. Tell the appraiser in advance about inaccessible areas or safety concerns.
- Secure pets and let the appraiser know if anyone on site needs accommodation.
- Have your factual property information packet ready.
- Fix known safety hazards that you planned to repair, but do not conceal defects.
During the visit
An appraiser may observe the home’s layout, condition and features, take measurements or photos, and ask about changes. The specific inspection varies by assignment; some lender valuation products may use different property data collection methods. A tidy, accessible home makes the visit more efficient, but cleaning alone does not create a predictable increase in value. State factual information and allow the appraiser to form an independent conclusion.
| When | Your task | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Day before | Confirm access and gather records | Rushing into cosmetic spending to “boost” a number |
| At arrival | Identify additions or unavailable spaces | Quoting an expected value as an instruction |
| After departure | Send omitted factual documents via the proper channel | Assuming the on-site visit completes the valuation |
After the appraiser leaves
Research and report writing can continue after the property visit. If your lender ordered the appraisal, ask your lender when and how you will receive a copy. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau explains the borrower’s right to a copy for covered mortgage applications. If you later notice a specific error, see our reconsideration of value guide for the lender-led process.
Questions we hear
Should I be home?
It can help to have someone who can provide access and answer factual questions, but coordinate with the person scheduling the visit. If the house is rented, review lease and access questions for a tenant-occupied appraisal before arranging the appointment.
Should I give comparable sales?
Relevant sales can be shared as information; the appraiser must judge comparability and verify the data. Learn how comps are selected.
Does the appraiser set my loan terms?
No. The lender makes loan and underwriting decisions.
For broader homeowner advice, see the Appraisal Institute’s preparation guidance. An appraisal is an independent opinion of value; preparation helps the appraiser see accurate facts and does not guarantee a higher conclusion.
For a private assignment in Hampton Roads, contact Capital Valuations with the purpose of the appraisal.
