10 Tips to Ensure an Accurate Home Appraisal in Utah

November 4, 2024 by
10 Tips to Ensure an Accurate Home Appraisal in Utah
Minson Appraisal Group
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Living in Utah, we’re proud of our beautiful surroundings, whether it's the Wasatch mountains or the Salt Lake Valley. Utah homes come with unique features, and sometimes, subtle touches that only locals understand can add value. If you’re getting a property valuation, you want your home to make the best impression possible. Here are ten simple but powerful tips for Utah homeowners to ensure that an appraiser sees everything that makes your property valuable and unique.

1. Clean and Tidy the Space

Utah’s famously unpredictable weather can sometimes leave our homes a bit dusty or cluttered. But before your appraisal, spend a little time tidying up and organizing. Appraisers aren’t here to judge your housekeeping, but a clean and organized space lets them focus on the home itself. And when the house looks well-maintained, it can subtly indicate that the property has been taken care of over time.

2. Make Minor Repairs and Touch-Ups

Small issues—like loose handles, chipped paint, or leaky faucets—can add up in an appraiser’s eyes. By making a few quick repairs, you’re ensuring that nothing distracts from your home’s true value. In Utah, where winters can be rough on exterior paint and door hinges, these touch-ups can also help show your commitment to upkeep.

3. Provide a List of Recent Upgrades

If you’ve added energy-efficient windows to block out the cold, upgraded to a new furnace, or remodeled that 90s kitchen, make a note of it. List out each improvement with the date it was completed and the cost, if possible. Utah’s climate means that features like upgraded insulation or energy-saving appliances matter, and sharing these details helps the appraiser see the investment you've made to make your home comfortable and efficient.

4. Ensure Easy Access to All Areas

Utah homes often come with basements, attics, garages, and spacious backyards. Make sure these areas are accessible to the appraiser so they can fully evaluate the property. Clear any clutter and ensure these spaces are well-lit. This includes areas like crawl spaces or sheds—anything the appraiser needs to see to get a full picture of your home’s layout and features.

5. Enhance Curb Appeal

With Utah’s natural beauty as a backdrop, curb appeal can make a strong first impression. Before the appraisal, take some time to mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and maybe add a few seasonal flowers. A neat and inviting exterior sets a positive tone and shows the appraiser that the property is well-maintained. Simple updates, like power-washing the driveway or touching up paint on the porch, can go a long way.

6. Showcase Neighborhood Benefits

Utah’s neighborhoods have a lot to offer, from local parks and hiking trails to newly opened restaurants and shopping spots. As a homeowner, you know your community’s highlights better than anyone. Let the appraiser know if there have been recent developments or if you live near a popular attraction. These features can add value, especially in Utah where outdoor lifestyle and community amenities are highly valued.

7. Highlight Any Energy-Saving Features

In Utah, where we experience everything from snowy winters to hot summers, energy efficiency is a big priority for homeowners and buyers alike. If you’ve invested in eco-friendly or energy-saving upgrades, make sure to highlight these to your appraiser, as they can add value to your home in today’s market. Solar panels, in particular, are increasingly popular in Utah due to the state’s abundant sunshine, and they’re often seen as a value boost.

When it comes to solar panels, be prepared to share details with the appraiser. Solar installations typically reduce energy bills over time, making your home more cost-efficient and appealing to future buyers. If you have solar panels, let the appraiser know when they were installed, how much energy they produce, and any reductions in energy costs you’ve noticed since installing them. If your system is leased rather than owned, mention that too, as it could impact the appraisal differently. Appraisers will consider how solar panels contribute to long-term energy savings, which can increase the overall attractiveness of your home.

Beyond solar, other green upgrades also add appeal. Energy-efficient windows, doors, and insulation can make a big difference in both winter and summer, helping regulate indoor temperatures and reducing energy costs. Similarly, low-flow faucets and fixtures, smart thermostats, and LED lighting are valuable features that contribute to lower utility bills and environmental impact.

8. Disclose Any Issues or Previous Repairs

Utah’s climate can be tough on homes. If you’ve had to replace your roof after a heavy winter, address water damage, or do other major repairs, it’s best to disclose this upfront. Being open about any past issues allows the appraiser to account for them and keeps surprises out of the final report.

9. Be Open to Questions and Provide Details

Sometimes your home has unique features that aren’t immediately obvious. Be ready to answer questions about upgrades like smart thermostats, energy-efficient lighting, or special additions like heated flooring, which can be a real bonus in Utah’s cold months. These details may be the finishing touch that highlights your home’s full value.

10. Prepare for the Appraisal Appointment Like a Showing

Treat the day of the appraisal as you would a home showing. In Utah’s competitive market, a well-presented home can make all the difference. A neat, ready-to-show home allows the appraiser to focus on what truly makes your property special, from those mountain views to the upgraded interior features.

By following these steps, Utah homeowners can help ensure a smooth appraisal process and an accurate property valuation. Whether you’re looking to refinance or planning to sell, these small actions can showcase your home in its best light, giving appraisers a clear view of what makes your property unique in Utah’s vibrant housing market. 

10 Tips to Ensure an Accurate Home Appraisal in Utah
Minson Appraisal Group November 4, 2024
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