When interacting with a home appraiser, certain statements can be problematic and should be avoided to maintain the integrity of the appraisal process. Here are the key things you should never say to a home appraiser:
Don’t Discuss or Influence the Home’s Value
Avoid making any statements that attempt to influence the appraised value or discuss specific numbers. You should never say things like:
- “Is it going to come in at this value?”
- “I’ll be happy as long as it appraises for at least the sales price”
- “Do your best to get the value as high as possible”
- “Give me the best appraisal you can”
- Appraisers interpret phrases like “give me the best appraisal you can” as pressure to provide the highest possible value, which compromises their objectivity
- Don’t Provide Biased Comparable Sales
Never tell an appraiser “Use these sales, they are the best comps for this house” while only providing the highest-priced sales in the area. While you can share comparable sales you used for listing purposes, don’t cherry-pick only the most favorable ones, as this appears to be an attempt to manipulate the appraisal outcome.
Don’t Ask to Hide Negative Aspects
Avoid requesting that the appraiser exclude or hide problematic elements of your property. Don’t say:
- “Can you not take a picture of that hole in the wall?”
- “Can you leave out the recent foreclosures and short sales?”
- Appraisers are required to document all aspects of the property, including repairs needed and negative conditions, to provide an accurate assessment to the lender.
Don’t Mention Getting a Second Appraisal
Never tell an appraiser that you plan to get a second appraisal if this one doesn’t meet your expectations. This statement can make the appraiser feel pressured or defensive and may seem like you don’t trust their professional abilities.
Don’t Make Unsupported Value Claims
Avoid statements like:
- “I believe the house is worth more”
- “A similar home sold for much higher”
- “Zillow says my house is worth…”
- These comments can come across as attempts to influence the appraiser and may make them scrutinize your property more closely for potential flaws.
Don’t Fabricate Information
Never provide false information about your property to increase its perceived value. This includes falsifying documents about land quality, fixture values, or any other property characteristics. Such deception can damage your credibility and potentially constitute fraud.
Don’t Hide Major Issues
While you’re not obligated to volunteer every minor flaw, hiding significant problems that could impact value is problematic. Don’t conceal issues like:
- Previous drug lab activity
- Foundation problems
- Unpermitted additions
- Structural issues
- Environmental hazards
When appraisers ask direct questions, be honest in your responses.
What You Should Do Instead
Keep conversations focused on factual information about your home, neighborhood, and relevant details the appraiser should know. Provide objective information about improvements or unique features when asked, and let the appraiser conduct their assessment without interference. Remember that appraisers aim to provide an unbiased, professional opinion based on objective criteria and market data.
