What Should I Do to Prepare My House for the Appraisal?

A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners in West Michigan

Whether you're selling, refinancing, settling an estate, or dividing assets during a divorce, your home appraisal can be an important step. And while you can't control the final number, you can make sure your home shows its best.

If you're asking:

“What should I do to prepare my house for the appraisal?”

You're already ahead of the game.

Here’s a practical checklist to help you get your home ready, especially if you're in the Grand Rapids, Cascade, Ada, Rockford, or Kent County area.

✅ Step 1: Clean Like It’s a Showing

While appraisers aren’t judging your housekeeping, a clean, well-maintained space helps create a positive impression of overall care.

• Vacuum, dust, and wipe down surfaces
• Declutter countertops, shelves, and floors
• Make beds and tidy up living areas
• Clean windows, mirrors, and light fixtures
• Remove trash and unpleasant odors

A tidy home subtly signals to the appraiser that the property has been well cared for.

✅ Step 2: Knock Out Quick Repairs

Take care of minor maintenance issues that are easy to fix but could raise red flags:

• Fix leaking faucets or running toilets
• Tighten loose door knobs or handles
• Replace burned-out light bulbs
• Patch small holes or scuffs in walls
• Secure wobbly handrails or stairs
• Touch up interior and exterior paint (if needed)

While cosmetic upgrades don’t majorly influence value, signs of neglect can suggest deeper issues.

✅ Step 3: Prepare a List of Updates & Upgrades

Appraisers won’t always know what’s behind the walls. Help them out by preparing a brief summary of upgrades, including:

• New roof, HVAC, or windows
• Kitchen or bathroom remodels
• Basement finishing or additions
• Landscaping improvements
• Energy-efficient upgrades or solar panels

Having a rough idea of dates of the updates can be helpful, but don’t worry about sharing the costs or contractor names. A one-page bullet list is perfect. 

💡 In a place like West Michigan—where housing styles and ages vary—a clear upgrade list helps appraisers make more accurate comparisons.

💡Cost doesn't necessarily equal value. Just because you spent $50,000 on the in ground pool does not mean that equates to $50,000 of increased market value. 

✅ Step 4: Ensure Full Access

Appraisers need to access every space in the home. Make sure nothing is locked or blocked:

• Open or unlock gates, sheds, garages, and utility closets
• Provide access to basements, crawl spaces, and attics
• Clear snow, leaves, or debris from exterior doors (seasonal)

If you have multiple outbuildings or pole barns, it's a good idea to make them accessible.

✅ Step 5: Contain Pets (just the scary ones)

We love our furry friends! If your dog or cat is human friendly, it’s their home too, so let’s be friends. If they aren't human friendly, or you aren't sure, It’s best to:

• Crate pets or keep them in a separate room
• Let the appraiser know where animals will be

🐶 It’s not about judgment—it’s about keeping the visit smooth, focused, and safe.

✅✅ Bonus Tip: Highlight Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, even to an appraiser. While we’re focused on market data and comparable sales, a well-kept exterior supports the perceived value.

• Mow the lawn
• Trim hedges and overgrown bushes
• Remove trash bins and yard clutter
• Power wash walkways or siding (if needed)

✅ How Far in Advance Should You Prepare?

Ideally, start preparing 3–5 days before the appraisal. That gives you time to make small fixes, clean thoroughly, and pull together any upgrade documentation.

Don’t worry about perfection—just show that the home is well cared for and in good condition for the neighborhood and market.

✅ Final Thoughts

Preparing for a home appraisal doesn’t have to be stressful. By following a simple checklist, you’ll make the process smoother for the appraiser, and potentially help support a stronger valuation.

In West Michigan, where homes vary widely in age, size, and condition, giving the appraiser a clear, accessible, and well-maintained home to evaluate can make a real difference.

So take a little time, tidy up, and share what you know about your home. You don't have to impress, you’re just helping your appraiser see the full picture.