First Impressions Matter in Real Estate

You've secured your sales price and you're in contract. Now the buyer's lender needs to confirm your home is actually worth that number, through an appraisal. Here's how to help it appraise at your price.

Hi, I'm Tanja Odzak, Realtor with eXp Realty, helping people sell and buy homes right here in the East Bay for the last 10 years.

An appraisal is ordered by the buyer's lender to confirm value based on the home's characteristics and nearby comparable sales, protecting the lender from financing more than the property is worth. First impressions matter here too, curb appeal is your first shot: fresh mulch, flowers, a mowed lawn, trimmed bushes, maybe a touch-up of exterior paint or a power wash.

Inside, a bright, decluttered home, especially bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen, helps an appraiser get a clear read on condition, since they're focused on measurements and upgrades, not the lived-in look. Minor repairs matter too, smoke detectors installed, water heaters braced, appliances working, and no visible leaks or electrical issues.

Finally, they'll compare your home against recent neighborhood sales to land on a final number.

I'm Tanja Odzak, and I've sold over $100 million worth of homes with a decade of experience in the East Bay. An appraisal doesn't have to be stressful if your home is ready. Let's look at recent comparables in your neighborhood.