Do Appraisers Look At How Clean Your House Is?

Ordinary clutter is different from property condition

We're there to look at the home and form an opinion of its value. An unmade bed or dishes in the sink are not the same as lasting damage, a moisture problem or a space we can't reach.

A lived-in Wilmington row house or twin is completely normal. We're looking at the condition of the house, not your housekeeping.

What the visit needs to show

Size, layout, condition, permanent features and improvements all help describe the home. When we can get to every area easily, it's simpler to measure and photograph what the assignment calls for.

You don't need to make a lived-in home look like a showroom. You do need to tell us if a room, utility area or other requested space can't be reached.

When clutter or neglect becomes relevant

Heavy clutter can block rooms or hide features. Strong odors, visible moisture, pests or signs of damage can raise questions about condition that go beyond housekeeping. If there's a known issue or a repair, just tell us about it rather than trying to cover it up.

How a condition affects value depends on the property, the market and the assignment. Cleaning doesn't guarantee a higher value, and a tidy room doesn't prove the building is free of defects.

A useful preparation list

• Clear paths through the rooms and to areas we need to see.
• Turn on lights and arrange access ahead of time.
• Put pets away and mention any access limits.
• Pull together a dated list of major improvements and repairs.
• Point out known damage and explain what was repaired and when.

Ask what your assignment needs

What we do at the visit depends on the scope we agreed on. Confirm the access requirements when you schedule, especially if a tenant or family member lives in the home.

For more help getting ready, read which documents to gather for a Wilmington home appraisal, or call us at (302) 298-3336 if you'd like to go through your own list.