Agent Tips

#4  Get a pre-sale inspection

This isn't a desperate sales pitch so hear us out. During the appraisal, Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) will be noted and they will have to be remedied in order for the loan to get approved. These MPRs are typically covered during the home inspection, meaning you will have a detailed list of what will need to be remedied before you can consider having the home appraised. Appraisals can be costly so you'll want to get it right the first time and avoid paying for a return trip. The most common issues that cause this "subject-to" condition are those that compromise health, safety, or structural soundness. Key culprits include active structural defects like major foundation cracks or severe settlement; evidence of active wood-destroying insect infestations (termites); an unsecured or actively leaking roof with less than two years of remaining life; non-functional major systems such as the heating, plumbing, or electrical systems; and safety hazards like missing handrails on stairs, exposed electrical wiring, or peeling paint in homes built before 1978 due to lead-based paint concerns. Any condition that makes the home uninhabitable or immediately unsafe must typically be corrected before the loan can close.

​​

 

#5 Address Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)

MPRs are the non-negotiable health, safety, and structural standards, particularly for FHA and VA loans. Realtors should instruct sellers to fix these immediately, as they are likely to be mandated conditions on the loan.

Safety Hazards - Fix/Secure: Loose or missing handrails on stairs (interior and exterior), decks, or porches. Secure all electrical wiring—cover exposed wires, replace missing switch plates and outlet covers, and ensure GFCI outlets are in place near water (kitchen/bathrooms).

Structural/Roof - Repair/Treat: Address active water intrusion (leaks) or significant moisture in the basement or crawl space. Get a termite clearance if required by the lender/state, and treat any visible pest infestation or wood rot. Ensure the roof is sound with no missing shingles and has an estimated remaining life of at least 2-3 years.

Paint (Lead) - Scrape and Repaint: For homes built before 1978, any chipping or peeling paint (interior or exterior, including sheds/fences) must be scraped down to the bare surface, primed, and repainted with non-lead paint. This is a common and mandatory FHA/VA repair.

 

 

​​#6 Document and Present Value (The "Appraisal Packet")

To help the home appraise at or above the sale price (especially in a competitive market or when the price is near the top of comparable sales), the realtor should provide the appraiser with an organized packet of information.

• List of Improvements: Create a comprehensive, itemized list of all major and costly upgrades made to the home, including the date of installation, cost (if known), and any transferable warranties.

  • Examples: New roof, HVAC system, water heater, kitchen/bathroom remodel, finished basement, new windows, or major energy-efficient upgrades.

• Comparable Sales (Comps): Provide the appraiser with 3-5 of the most relevant and recent closed sales (ideally within the last six months and one mile) that support the sale price. This is especially helpful if the appraiser may not easily find them or if the subject property is a unique build.

• Property Facts: Include an accurate summary of the home's features: exact finished square footage, lot size, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, and any special features (e.g., cul-de-sac location, unique view, HOA amenities).

• Permits and Surveys: Include copies of building permits for any major additions or renovations, as well as the most recent survey or floor plan if available.

 

#7 Maximize Visual Appeal and Accessibility

While appraisers are trained to look past clutter, a well-maintained and tidy home creates a better overall impression of care, which can subtly influence the appraiser's quality rating of the home.

• Clean and Declutter: Deep clean the entire house. Declutter all surfaces, closets, and storage areas so rooms appear spacious and well-maintained.

• Curb Appeal: Ensure the lawn is mowed, landscaping is tidy, and the front door/porch area is clean. The appraiser's opinion of value begins the moment they drive up to the house .

• Accessibility: Unlock all doors (including basement, attic, garage, and exterior access doors) and ensure all rooms are easily accessible for measurement and inspection. Turn all lights on before the appraiser arrives.