Home appraisal basics: what you need to know

Thinking about selling, refinancing, or just curious about your house's worth? A home appraisal tells you the market value of the property. Lenders use it to decide loan amounts, and sellers use it to set realistic prices. Knowing how the process works helps you avoid surprises and can even boost your final number.

What the appraiser looks at

An appraiser walks through your home, measures rooms, and checks the condition of the roof, windows, and major systems. They also note upgrades like a new kitchen, added bathroom, or energy‑efficient windows. Outside, the lot size, landscaping, and nearby amenities matter. After the walkthrough, the appraiser compares your home to recent sales of similar houses in the same neighbourhood—this is called a "comparable" analysis.

Location is a big driver of value. Proximity to schools, transport links, and shops can add or subtract points. Even the street’s overall appearance—well‑kept driveways and tidy fences—can influence the final figure.

Tips to get a higher appraisal

First, tidy up. A clean, decluttered home lets the appraiser see every feature without distractions. Fix obvious issues: leaky taps, cracked tiles, or burnt‑out light bulbs. Small repairs signal that the house is well maintained.

Second, gather recent upgrades. Bring receipts or a list of improvements like a new boiler, fresh paint, or insulated loft. If you have energy‑saving certifications, hand those over too—they show added value.

Third, provide a list of recent comparable sales. You can find these on the UK Land Registry website or ask your estate agent. Showing that similar homes sold for higher prices gives the appraiser concrete data to work with.

Finally, be present but not intrusive. Answer the appraiser's questions honestly and let them finish the inspection before you discuss anything. A calm, cooperative attitude often leads to a smoother process.

After the inspection, the appraiser writes a report with the final value and a breakdown of how they arrived at it. The report is usually delivered within a week. If the number seems low, you can ask for a reconsideration‑of‑value (ROV). Provide any new information you missed, like recent renovations, and the appraiser may adjust the figure.

Remember, an appraisal is an opinion, not a guarantee. Market conditions, buyer demand, and interest rates can shift the price quickly. Stay updated on local trends and be ready to adjust your strategy.

Whether you're selling, refinancing, or just budgeting, understanding the home appraisal process gives you control. Use the tips above, keep your home in good shape, and you’ll walk into the valuation with confidence.