If you've never had a home appraised, the process is more straightforward — and less invasive — than most people expect.
Before the visit
The appraiser researches recent comparable sales in your area, along with public records on your property. Once at the property, the visit itself is typically 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the home's size and complexity.
During the visit
The appraiser walks through the home noting room count, condition, updates, and any features that affect value — a finished basement, an addition, a renovated kitchen. Photos are taken of the exterior, interior, and any relevant improvements. This is not a home inspection: the appraiser isn't testing systems or looking for defects the way an inspector would, but visible condition issues do factor into the value conclusion.
After the visit
The appraiser compares your property to recently sold, similar homes nearby, adjusts for differences, and develops an opinion of value supported by that data. The final report documents the methodology, the comparable sales used, and the conclusion — built to hold up to review by a lender, attorney, or tax board, depending on the appraisal's purpose.
What homeowners can do to help
Make sure the home is accessible, note any recent improvements or permits the appraiser might not otherwise see, and have any relevant paperwork — permits, surveys — on hand if it's readily available. Beyond that, there's little to prepare; the appraiser's job is to find the truth of the property's condition and value, not to be impressed.