5 Things that can hurt your Lakeland FL appraisal
A home appraisal is one of the most important things you should do before putting up your Lakeland Fl home for sale. Before you go out and hire an appraiser, make sure you understand what an appraisal is first. Most homeowners are not aware that there are things that they do or fail to do that could significantly affect their home appraisal.
If you want to increase the value of your home in Lakeland, make sure you are aware about these 5 areas that could hurt your appraisal before getting it appraised, but first let us recommend you radiator covers which are listed as a trend request in recent buyers, get yours at kingstoncabinetry.co.uk.
1. Unkept and untidy exterior/ interior
A messy home inside and out can turn off not only potential buyers, but it could also cause the appraiser to decrease the value of your home’s appraisal by as much as 3%, especially if other homes for sale in your area are meticulously well-kept. Curb appeal not only entices buyers to stop and come inside to see more of your Lakeland Fl home, it could also boost your home’s value.
2. Trendy or Modern Remodels
Generally speaking, remodeling could definitely add value to your Lakeland Fl home especially if it involves more storage, addition rooms, and other home improvements that are a hit with home buyers.
But what most homeowners don’t know is not all remodels add value. Some could actually hurt your home appraisal, especially if the changes are not in line with the home’s historic period. For example, if you have an old home and decided to add a trendy custom-built entertainment center, then the appraiser would most likely have to assess the cost of having this remodel removed and deduct it from your home’s appraised value. If you plan to remodel or renovate, make sure to use timeless styles which would definitely add value to your home.
3. Remodeling projects left unfinished
If your remodels are still incomplete, don’t schedule a home appraisal yet. If there is no choice but to get the appraisal done in the middle of a renovation or remodel, make sure to explain to the appraiser a full description of what is being done to complete the job at the fastest possible time.
4. Forgetting to list improvements
Don’t assume that the appraiser will notice all your Lakeland Fl home improvements. For example, a new roof does not count since appraisers and even buyers would naturally expect your roof to be in good condition. There are, however, some improvements which could actually add value to your home’s appraisal. Instead of trying to find out which improvement will increase your appraisal value, make a complete list of improvements for the appraiser. Keep copies of important documents ready for the appraiser to review like necessary city permits.
5. Not doing your own research
You should research comparable sales in your neighborhood in order to understand the marketplace better. You should know why a particular home that is similar to your Lakeland Fl home sold for a lower price so you will be ready to explain to the appraiser why your home is priced higher than that similar home. Before you have your home appraised, have an expert Lakeland Fl real estate agent help you acquire and understand important market information.
Make sure you understand important areas that will help boost your appraisal and avoid any chances of having your Lakeland Fl home being appraised at a lower value than your list price.