A house appraisal is a professional assessment of a property’s value, typically required by lenders during the home buying or refinancing process. Appraisers evaluate a range of factors to determine the fair market value of the home. Here’s what they typically check:

1. General Property Characteristics

• Square footage of the home and lot
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Type of foundation (slab, crawl space, basement)
• Presence and condition of a garage, attic, or basement
• Building materials used for construction
• Layout and functionality of the design

2. Physical Condition

• Overall condition of the home (cracks, leaks, damages)
• Roof quality (missing shingles, leaks, age)
• Foundation integrity (cracks, settling)
• Windows and doors (condition, insulation)
• Walls and floors (material, condition)
• Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems (type, age, functionality)
• Lighting and fixtures

3. Interior and Exterior Features

• Quality of landscaping and curb appeal
• Fireplaces, pools, decks, patios, or other amenities
• Finishing details (countertops, cabinetry, appliances, flooring)
• Energy-efficient features (insulation, windows, appliances)
• Condition of the basement or attic (finished or unfinished)

4. Neighborhood and Location

• Neighborhood setting (urban, suburban, rural)
• Proximity to schools, transportation, and amenities
• Zoning classification
• Comparable sales (recently sold similar homes in the area)
• External influences (near highways, railroads, or other factors that may affect value)

5. Safety and Compliance (Especially for FHA/USDA Loans)

• Proper drainage away from the house
• Handrails on stairs
• Ventilation in attics and crawl spaces
• Functional mechanical systems
• Absence of hazards (lead paint, termites, etc.)

6. Upgrades and Improvements

• Recent renovations (kitchen, bathrooms, major systems)
• New appliances or systems (HVAC, water heater)
• Energy-efficient upgrades

Appraisers do not assess décor or removable features, but focus on the fixed aspects of the property. Their evaluation is objective and based on both the property’s characteristics and recent comparable sales in the area. The final appraisal report helps lenders ensure the loan amount does not exceed the home’s true value and provides buyers and sellers with an unbiased estimate of worth.