How to Prepare for Inspections and Appraisals

Preparation can influence how smoothly both inspections and appraisals proceed. While buyers and sellers have different roles in the process, understanding what inspectors and appraisers typically need helps set realistic expectations and reduce avoidable delays.

Rather than focusing on perfection, preparation is about accessibility, visibility, and presenting accurate information about the property.

Preparation for Home Inspections

Home inspectors evaluate visible and accessible areas of a property. Preparation generally centers on ensuring that major systems and components can be observed and tested.

Common preparation considerations include:

• Ensuring utilities are active so systems can be evaluated
• Allowing clear access to mechanical areas, panels, and crawl spaces
• Making sure appliances and major systems are operational
• Reducing obstructions that could prevent inspection of key components
• Providing access to all areas of the property

These steps help the inspector document the home’s condition accurately at the time of inspection.

Preparation for Appraisals

Appraisals focus on market value rather than detailed condition, but presentation and access still play a role in how information is gathered.

Preparation for an appraisal often involves:

• Ensuring the property is accessible and safe to enter
• Presenting the home in a clean and maintained condition
• Making information about recent improvements available
• Allowing the appraiser access to all relevant spaces

Appraisers rely on comparable sales and market data, but accurate property information supports a more complete evaluation.

Preparation does not change market value or eliminate findings, but it can help ensure inspections and appraisals reflect the property as accurately and efficiently as possible.

This content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, construction, real estate, or valuation advice.