Contact a licensed or certified home appraiser
Ask your lender if an appraisal is required
Schedule the appraisal appointment
Provide access to the home and all areas
Gather recent renovation records and permits
Prepare a list of upgrades and improvements
Clean and tidy the home before the visit
Make sure utilities are on
Compare recent sales of similar homes in the area
Review the appraisal report when completed
Request a correction if there are factual errors
Use the appraisal for refinancing, selling, or buying decisions