Home Appraisal Checklist

When buying, selling or refinancing a home, one of the most important steps in the process is the home appraisal checklist. An appraisal determines the fair market value of a property, providing both buyers and lenders with confidence in the transaction. Whether you are a homeowner preparing to sell, a buyer eager to make the right investment or someone looking to refinance, understanding the appraisal process is essential.

At Suntel Global, we understand that appraisals can feel overwhelming. Our expertise in title research, property valuation support and real estate services helps streamline the process so you can move forward with confidence. This blog will guide you through the essentials of a home appraisal checklist and explain how Suntel Global can support you every step of the way.

What Is a Home Appraisal?

A home appraisal is a professional, unbiased opinion of a property’s market value. It is conducted by a licensed and certified appraiser who evaluates the property’s size, condition, location and features while comparing it with recent sales in the area.

Lenders rely on appraisals to ensure they are not lending more than a home is worth. For buyers, it ensures they are paying a fair price. For sellers, it confirms that their asking price is realistic. For refinancing homeowners, it helps determine equity and loan eligibility.

Simply put, the appraisal serves as a neutral benchmark that protects all parties involved in a real estate transaction.

Why Appraisals Matter

• For Buyers: Prevents overpaying and protects loan approval.
• For Sellers: Helps set a competitive asking price.
• For Lenders: Ensures the loan is based on accurate property value.
• For Refinancers: Unlocks equity and favorable refinancing terms.

Without a proper appraisal, deals can fall through, loans can be denied and sellers may struggle to attract serious buyers.

Home Appraisal vs. Home Inspection

Many people confuse home inspections with home appraisals, but they serve different purposes:

• Inspection: Focuses on the home’s condition (plumbing, electrical, roof, foundation, etc.). It helps buyers understand repair needs.
• Appraisal: Focuses on the value of the property, factoring in condition, size, improvements and comparable sales.

Both are important, but the appraisal is what lenders require before approving a loan.

The Home Appraisal Process

Appraisals usually follow these steps:

1. Comparable Market Analysis (Comps) – The appraiser reviews similar homes recently sold in the area.
2. On-Site Visit – The appraiser inspects the property’s size, layout and overall condition.
3. Appraisal Report – A detailed report with photos, notes and a final market value.

The process may take from a few days to a few weeks depending on the property’s complexity.

Preparing for a Home Appraisal: A Seller’s Checklist

Sellers can take proactive steps to increase the chances of a favorable appraisal:

• Repair leaks, peeling paint or damaged walls.
• Ensure all systems (AC, heaters, garage doors, etc.) work properly.
• Secure handrails and fix safety issues.
• Deep clean the house, including carpets and bathrooms.
• Provide documentation for upgrades, renovations and previous appraisals.
• Boost curb appeal by maintaining landscaping and cleaning outdoor spaces.

Even small improvements, such as a fresh coat of paint or better lighting, can make a difference.

Buyer’s Role in the Appraisal

Buyers don’t typically attend appraisals, but they can prepare by:

• Researching neighborhood home values.
• Including an appraisal contingency in their purchase offer.
• Staying in touch with their lender to meet all appraisal requirements.

Refinancing Appraisals

When refinancing, homeowners want the highest appraisal value possible to maximize equity. To achieve this:

• Declutter and deep clean the home.
• Make minor repairs before the appraiser’s visit.
• Provide a list of upgrades and improvements (e.g., new windows, upgraded HVAC, kitchen remodel).
• Ask a friend or agent for an objective walkthrough to spot overlooked issues.

What Appraisers Look For

Licensed appraisers evaluate several factors, including:

• Structural integrity (roof, foundation, walls).
• Square footage and lot size.
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Quality of finishes and condition of appliances.
• Permanent upgrades and improvements.
• Real estate comps in the neighborhood.
• Zoning and access to utilities.

What they don’t evaluate: décor, personal taste or temporary features like curtains or portable appliances.

Special Appraisal Requirements by Loan Type

Certain loan programs have specific appraisal checklists:

• FHA and USDA Loans: Require stricter property condition standards (no peeling paint, no water damage, safe foundation).
• VA Loans: Must ensure safety, livability and functionality (working sewer, secure foundation, heating/cooling systems).

Knowing these requirements upfront can help sellers prepare and avoid surprises.

Types of Appraisals

Not every appraisal involves a lengthy home walkthrough. Depending on the lender, you might encounter:

• Traditional Appraisal – Full on-site inspection.
• Hybrid Appraisal – Combination of virtual review and limited in-person data collection.
• Desktop Appraisal – Based on public records and comps only.
• Drive-By Appraisal – Exterior-only evaluation.

At Suntel Global, we help clients understand which appraisal type is most likely in their situation.

Factors That Impact Appraisal Costs

The cost of an appraisal varies depending on:

• Home size and location.
• Amount of research required.
• Whether property lines or acreage need verification.
• Urban vs. rural area (rural tends to cost more).

On average, costs range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

Common Issues That Lower Appraisal Value

• Poor property condition (clutter, broken fixtures, safety hazards).
• Deferred maintenance (roof leaks, old HVAC).
• Overpricing compared to local comps.
• Unfinished renovations or incomplete permits.

Avoiding these issues can prevent deals from falling through due to low appraisals.

How Suntel Global Helps With Appraisals

At Suntel Global, we know how vital accurate and timely appraisals are. While we don’t replace certified appraisers, our services make the process smoother by:

• Providing Detailed Title Searches – Ensuring clear ownership and no hidden claims that could affect value.
• Supporting Appraisers With Verified Data – Access to accurate property records, sales history, and ownership details.
• Guiding Buyers and Sellers – Helping clients prepare documents, property records and checklists before the appraisal.
• Streamlining Transactions – Coordinating with lenders, real estate agents and appraisers to keep the process efficient.

Our expertise ensures that buyers, sellers and lenders have confidence in every transaction.

Final Thoughts

A home appraisal can make or break a real estate deal. Whether you’re selling, buying or refinancing, preparation is key to ensuring your property is valued fairly. From repairs and documentation to understanding loan requirements, the checklist above helps set you up for success.

Suntel Global is here to simplify the appraisal process. By providing accurate title searches, market insights and transaction support, we give clients peace of mind and a smoother path to closing.

If you’re planning a property transaction, trust Suntel Global to be your reliable partner in navigating home appraisals and beyond.