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Getting an up-to-date property appraisal is essential if you are considering selling or refinancing or even just want to know your property’s current value for financial peace of mind.

It’s important to present your home in its best light to get the best evaluation possible, and here we outline some key steps to help you prepare for and get the most out of your property appraisal.

Optimise curb appeal

How your property looks from the street can have a significant impact on its overall appeal. Properties with good curb appeal tend to receive better appraisals, so whether you’re in a house or an apartment be sure to fully tidy and declutter external areas, tidying and weeding the garden and mowing lawns where needed. Don’t forget to clean windows and around doors, paying particular attention to any areas collecting cobwebs.

Tidy and clean

It goes without saying that on the day of the appraisal your home should be looking its best. Thoroughly clean and tidy every room beforehand, making sure windows are sparkling clean and streak-free.

Make rooms look more spacious by decluttering and depersonalising as much as possible, removing unnecessary items from surfaces like counters, windowsills and tables. Open up curtains and blinds to maximise available light and help rooms feel more airy.

If you have one, make sure the pool is crystal clear and its surrounds are looking as fresh and inviting as possible.

Fix any minor issues

An important aspect of preparing for the appraisal is demonstrating how well you’ve cared for your property and making sure everything is in good repair and working order.

It’s easy to get used to overlooking things we see every day, so take a good look around and try and see your home with the eyes of an outsider. Watch out for things that could be easily improved upon like marks on walls, floors and skirting boards that can be removed or touched-up with paint, as well as outdated minor fittings that could be easily replaced for a more updated look. It’s also a good idea wherever possible to make sure minor repairs are completed prior to the appraisal.

Style it up

Interior furnishings, while cosmetic, can make a huge difference to a home’s look and feel. Consider adding new lounge cushions and hanging matching towels in bathrooms, along with carefully selected plants, flowers or a fresh fruit bowl to help create a homely and welcoming environment.

Have a good look around and make sure your furniture is arranged in such a way that it maximises the available space and helps the property ‘flow’.

List any improvements you’ve made

Note down any new additions you have made to the property. Tell your agent about repairs or renovations you’ve had done (you may also like to show them invoices if you have them). This information will be considered in the appraisal and reflected in your property report.

Have your paperwork ready

During an appraisal, the valuer is required to measure floorplans. Therefore, copies of your building plans are very useful in the evaluation process and can help to establish a more accurate appraisal.

Relax

There are many factors other than the condition of the exterior and interior of the property that inform an evaluation. Many of these aspects will be outside your control – such as a property’s size, type, or location plus what’s happening in the local market – so don’t lose sleep over the appraisal process or outcome.

Things to remember…

Taking the time to read and implement these tips will ensure you get the most out of your property appraisal. And remember that once you choose to list your property for sale with an agent, they will be on hand throughout the sales process providing expert guidance on presenting your home in its best light to help secure you the right price.

Talk to our team of experts today

Belle Property agents have in-depth property market knowledge and are highly skilled in providing up-to-the-minute property appraisals for all types of homes. Please contact us today to arrange your complimentary property appraisal.