What Not to Say to an Appraiser
A home appraisal is an independent opinion of market value based on the property, its condition, and relevant market evidence. Homeowners can ask questions and share useful facts. The statements below can create pressure or distract from information the appraiser can verify. A calm, factual conversation is usually the most helpful approach.
8 Things to Avoid Saying During an Appraisal
1. “I need the value to come in at $___.”
Stating a target value can sound like pressure to reach a particular conclusion. If you have recent comparable sales or other relevant information, share the details and let the appraiser determine whether they apply.
2. “Zillow or Redfin says it is worth more.”
Online estimates can be a starting point for general curiosity, but they are not a substitute for an appraisal. Automated estimates may not reflect the home’s interior condition, permitted improvements, deferred maintenance, or the details of nearby sales. You can mention an estimate if you wish, but the appraiser must analyze market evidence independently.
3. “My neighbor sold for $___, so this home should be worth more.”
A nearby sale may be useful, but location alone does not make two homes comparable. Size, condition, features, sale timing, and other differences can affect value. Share the address or sale information if you have it; the appraiser will decide whether it is relevant.
4. “I spent $___ on the house, so it has to be worth more.”
Improvement costs do not always translate dollar for dollar into market value. The type and quality of work, buyer preferences, and competing homes all matter. A list of completed work, dates, and permit information is more useful than a claim that the home must be worth a certain amount.
5. “The last appraisal was higher.”
A prior appraisal records an opinion for a particular effective date and purpose. Market conditions and the property can change. You may provide a prior report for context, but its conclusion does not establish current market value.
6. “Another appraiser, agent, or friend said it is worth more.”
An unsupported opinion does not show how the market is responding to the property. If someone identified a specific comparable sale or a factual error, share that verifiable information instead.
7. “If it doesn’t appraise, the deal falls apart.”
The outcome of a sale or loan can feel important, but it does not change the appraiser’s assignment. Explaining the transaction’s stakes can unintentionally create pressure and will not replace the market analysis.
8. “This is the best house in the neighborhood,” or “Ignore the mess.”
Sales pitches and apologies are not as useful as observable facts. Point out features, repairs, or condition issues accurately. The appraiser will inspect and consider the relevant characteristics of the property.
What to Share Instead
Prepare a concise, factual list of recent improvements, including approximate dates and permits when available. You can also share information about features that may not be obvious during a walkthrough, relevant comparable sales, access instructions, occupancy details, and homeowners association information. The appraiser may verify and weigh each item as part of the assignment.
For residential appraisal help in Sacramento and nearby counties, see our service area and contact Bolton Appraisal Services to discuss the assignment and scheduling.