One critical step in the home-buying process is getting it appraised. To get a house appraised means that you are basically getting an unbiased estimate of what a home is worth. Lenders ask for a house appraisal Dallas TX during the mortgage process so that it can be determined that the buyer is requesting the appropriate amount of money for the home’s purchase. The appraisal will include the current condition of the home, its location, and information on similar properties surrounding the home.
- Can I Trust the Appraiser?
The short answer is yes. Appraisers are licensed and certified and are trained to fairly and objectively identify a home’s value. Though nobody is perfect, their opinion of the value of your home is backed by extensive training and testing, many years of testing, and continuing education. They are also required to corroborate each discovery in their report that may have an effect on a home’s value.
- What Are Appraisers Searching For?
Keep in mind that appraisers are not interested in what type of furniture you have or how your house is decorated. They are focused upon how old it is, what the square footage of your house is, how many bedrooms and bathrooms you have, how big your lot is, where it is located, and what type of view it has. They are looking at the condition of only what is permanently attached to the home.
- How Can I Make My Home Appraise Higher?
To boost your home’s appraisal value, there are several relatively inexpensive things you can do. Patch up any cracks in plaster, and clean up any water-stained walls. Steam-clean soiled carpeting and get rid of any persistent odors. If you have any leaky faucets, go ahead and fix them. Broken windows should be replaced and cracked ceilings should be repaired.
If you are looking to impress an appraiser, look at improving your curb appeal. Try painting your front door and hanging a wreath. Make your yard look immaculate and install a porch swing. A welcoming outside gives your appraiser a great first impression.