Appraisers generally do not base their valuation on cleanliness alone, but the overall condition and accessibility of the home do matter. Here are the key points about how cleanliness factors into a home appraisal:

• Appraisers focus primarily on the physical and structural attributes of the home such as square footage, age, layout, condition of mechanical systems, roof, foundation, and recent comparable sales in the neighborhood. They are trained to overlook normal clutter like stray clothes, toys, or unwashed dishes as long as these do not interfere with their inspection.
• Extreme messiness or clutter that blocks access to rooms or key areas can negatively affect the appraisal. For example, if an appraiser cannot access a room or inspect important components like appliances, breaker panels, or attics due to clutter, this can be a problem and potentially lower the appraisal value.
• Signs of neglect or damage related to cleanliness can impact value. Issues like mold, peeling paint (especially if it poses health risks), water stains, or structural damage are important and should be addressed before appraisal. Dirtiness that suggests neglect or damage can lower the appraisal.
• A clean and organized home helps appraisers see the property clearly and may create a better impression, although appraisers are trained to be objective. Some homeowners believe deep cleaning has helped their appraisal, but this is anecdotal and not guaranteed.
• Preparing your home by fixing repairs and ensuring clear access is more important than deep cleaning. Appraisers want to inspect the entire home without obstruction to assess its true condition.

In summary, cleanliness itself is not a direct factor in appraisal value, but a messy or neglected home that obstructs inspection or shows signs of damage can hurt the appraisal. Keeping the home reasonably tidy and ensuring appraisers can access all areas will facilitate an accurate and fair appraisal. Addressing any structural or maintenance issues is the best way to protect or improve your home’s appraised value.