What Not to Tell a Home Appraiser

An appraiser develops a value opinion from property information and market evidence. Keep communication factual and avoid pressure for a preferred outcome.

Discussing a desired value

Explain the intended use and provide property facts rather than asking the appraiser to adopt a preferred number. Recent comparable sales, market trends and condition support the analysis.

Provide details of a sale you believe is comparable, including its size, condition and features. The highest nearby sale is not automatically the most relevant comparison.

Why avoid it? Appraisers conduct their own research and will consider all relevant sales—not just the highest ones. Overstating or misrepresenting comps can be counterproductive.

Describing renovations

Describe self-completed work honestly. Provide available plans, permits and records, and explain what is known when documentation is incomplete.

Online estimates

An automated estimate may lack details about condition or improvements. Ask about the underlying evidence instead of requiring a report to match that number.

A neighbor’s appraisal

Every property is unique, and the circumstances of your neighbor’s appraisal may be entirely different. Appraisers consider a wide range of factors, including lot size, upgrades, layout, and even the timing of the appraisal.

Avoid asking the appraiser to hit a number needed for the transaction. Supply evidence and allow the analysis to determine the conclusion.

Any statement that suggests the appraiser should inflate the value is inappropriate and unethical. The appraiser’s role is to provide an honest, unbiased opinion—not to advocate for the homeowner.

Disclose relevant known problems, additions and changes. Supporting records help explain the property’s condition and history.

Be available for questions while giving the appraiser room to observe and measure the property.

Why avoid it? Give the appraiser space to do their job thoroughly and objectively. If you have important information, provide it at the beginning or end of the visit.

What You Should Do Instead

Summary Table: What Not to Tell a Home Appraiser

Final Thoughts

Be prepared, provide relevant information and maintain a factual, respectful conversation. If questions remain after delivery, identify the specific item and supply supporting records through the agreed process.