When you sell your home your realtor will help stage and present your home for the highest offer. However, when you refinance your home, presenting your home for the highest valuation is important and often not very difficult. A higher appraised value can improve your interest rate, reduce your closing costs, reduce or remove your mortgage insurance, and possibly save you more money every month.
Expert Tips to Boost Your Home’s Appraisal Value
- Create A List Of Upgrades And Improvements with Amount of Money Spent
- List new heat pump, furnace, wiring & plumbing
- List new roof
- List any remodeling and renovation projects
- List Landscaping, Drainage, Decks, Patios, Fence
- List any other project you have completed that have improved your home value
- Include estimated labor for projects you completed yourself
- Minor Repairs
- Fix leaky faucets and running toilets
- Replace broken or cracked windows
- Repair any visible damage to walls, floors, or ceilings
- Ensure all light fixtures and electrical outlets are working properly
- Tighten loose doorknobs and fix squeaky hinges
- Paint Touch-Ups
- Refresh high-traffic areas with a new coat of paint
- Touch up scuff marks and scratches on walls
- Consider neutral colors for broad appeal
- Don’t forget trim, baseboards, and door frames
- Repaint the front door for enhanced curb appeal
- Yard Work and Exterior Improvements
- Mow the lawn and trim hedges
- Remove weeds and dead plants
- Add fresh mulch to flower beds
- Power wash the exterior, driveway, and walkways
- Ensure gutters are clean and properly attached
- Cleaning
- Thoroughly clean all rooms, including often-overlooked areas
- Steam clean carpets and rugs
- Polish hardwood floors
- Clean windows inside and out
- Declutter and organize closets and storage spaces
- Create a Pleasing Atmosphere
- Use subtle, natural air fresheners or essential oils or even fresh popped popcorn
- Open windows to allow fresh air circulation before the appraisal
- Place fresh flowers or potted plants strategically
- Ensure good lighting throughout the home
- Set a comfortable temperature
- Additional Expert Recommendations
- Update old hardware on cabinets and doors
- Replace outdated light fixtures
- Showcase energy-efficient features
- Highlight any recent upgrades or renovations
- Prepare a list of recent improvements and their costs
Remember, the goal is to present your home in its best possible light. These simple yet effective steps can potentially add thousands to your home’s appraised value, improving your refinancing options. Try the least expensive options first and review the results. Good luck with your refinance!
Do you know how much home you can afford?
Most people don’t... Find out in 10 minutes.
Today's Mortgage Rates