Whether you’re looking to put your home on the real estate market or want to refinance, you’ll need to get an official appraisal of your property to determine how much it’s really worth. But since this process can feel daunting to some, Classic Maui Properties in Pukalani, HI, encourages homeowners to take a few small steps before having a professional assess your home’s current value.

5 Things to Do Before Your Home Appraisal

1. Fix Small Issues

In most cases, you’ll need a home appraisal either to save you money or maximize your return on an investment. Still, you might need to fix up small issues around your property, such as dysfunctional light fixtures and loose stair railings. As a general rule of thumb, you should repair any problems that will cost less than $500 because appraisers typically deduct $500 for every minor issue from your home’s total value.

2. Itemize Home Improvements

Not all improvements in your home may be easy for your appraiser to spot. That’s why you should list any major upgrades or repairs you’ve invested in over the years, such as new flooring, roofing, and additions. In many cases, these enhancements will significantly boost your property value.

3. Clean Inside and Out   

In the real estate market, appearances are everything. Take time to thoroughly clean your home before the appraiser arrives. Have your carpets cleaned and touch-up any dirty walls. In addition to inside cleaning, it’s also worth investing in landscaping services to boost your property’s curb appeal.

4. Know Your Neighborhood

Review the ways that your local community has improved since your last appraisal. For instance, new schools, shopping centers, and roads are all factors that could improve your home’s position in the real estate market.

5. Relax

Although having a stranger assess the value of your home can be intimidating, it’s best to take a step back and let them do their job. If you shadow the appraiser too much, they may get the impression that there’s something wrong with your property.

When it’s time to schedule your home appraisal, look no further than the experts at Classic Maui Properties. Providing comprehensive real estate services on Maui since 1972, this property management company has the experience necessary to accurately determine your home’s value in a simple, stress-free fashion. Call (808) 878-1001 to set up a home appraisal appointment. Visit them online to learn more about their services.