Whether you're refinancing your home or preparing to sell, getting a strong appraisal can make a big difference. While some parts of the process are outside your control, there are several steps you can take to help your home show well and potentially raise its appraised value.

How the appraisal process works

A home appraisal is an unbiased estimate of a property’s value, performed by a licensed appraiser. This person will visit your home, inspect it inside and out, and compare it with recently sold properties nearby.

The appraiser considers:

• Sales prices of comparable homes in your area
• The condition and features of your home
• The home’s size and layout
• Market conditions in your neighborhood

Appraisers use a standardized checklist to guide their evaluation, but personal judgment still plays a role. That’s why presentation matters.

Ways to improve your appraisal

Boost curb appeal

First impressions count. Make sure your home looks clean, tidy and inviting from the outside. Mow the lawn, trim shrubs, sweep the walkway and, if needed, touch up the paint on your front door.

Choose upgrades wisely

If you're making improvements ahead of an appraisal, focus on projects with strong returns on investment, such as:

• Landscaping enhancements
• Installing hardwood or quality flooring
• Converting unused space, such as a garage, into livable square footage

Kitchen and bathroom updates can be worthwhile, but you don’t need a full remodel. Small changes — like replacing hardware, painting cabinets or updating light fixtures — can have a positive impact.

Keep in mind that where you upgrade matters. For example, converting an attic into a bedroom may increase your official living space, while a finished basement often does not. That difference can affect how much value the appraiser assigns to the renovation.

Document your improvements

Not all updates are obvious. If you've replaced your roof, upgraded your HVAC system or modernized your electrical panel, be ready to share:

• Before-and-after photos
• Receipts and invoices
• Permits or warranties, if applicable

Showing this information helps the appraiser understand what improvements you've made and how they affect your home's value.

Clean and declutter

A clean home suggests good maintenance. Deep clean carpets, dust surfaces and remove clutter from floors, countertops and closets. If possible, consider hiring professional cleaners, especially if you have pets.

Make a plan for pets

Pets can be a distraction during an appraisal. If possible, keep them secured or have them stay somewhere else during the visit. This helps the appraiser stay focused and comfortable.

What to do if the appraisal is low

Even if you've done everything right, the appraised value might come in lower than expected. Don’t panic. You still have options.

If you’re selling the home, you can:

• Lower the asking price to match the appraisal
• Ask the buyer to pay more in cash
• Split the difference

If you're refinancing, you can:

• Accept the lower value
• Ask the lender to reconsider based on updated or missing information
• Make more improvements and request a second appraisal

Final thoughts

You can't control the housing market, but you can control how your home is presented during an appraisal. Focus on the details that matter most: curb appeal, clean spaces, smart updates and solid documentation. A little effort can go a long way in helping your home get the value it deserves.