Whether you’re planning to sell, refinance, or simply want to understand your home’s worth, knowing what influences a home appraisal can give you a serious advantage. A home appraisal is an objective evaluation of your property’s market value conducted by a licensed appraiser. It serves as a key part of nearly every real estate transaction, impacting everything from sale price negotiations to loan approvals.

So, what exactly do appraisers look for when determining your home’s value? Some factors are outside of your control, like location and market conditions. Others—like maintenance, renovations, and curb appeal—are well within your reach. In this article, we’ll break down the major elements that impact your home’s appraised value and how you can potentially improve it.

1. Location, Location, Location

You’ve probably heard the old real estate saying—location is everything. And it’s true: your home’s location is one of the most influential factors in an appraisal.

Appraisers evaluate the desirability and convenience of your neighborhood by considering:

• Proximity to highly rated schools
• Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping centers
• Nearby transportation routes and commute times
• Local crime rates and safety statistics
• Neighborhood upkeep and general appeal
• Surrounding property values and recent sales trends

Homes located in safe, clean, and growing neighborhoods tend to appraise much higher than similar homes in declining or less accessible areas. Even if your home is well-maintained and updated, a struggling neighborhood can still negatively impact your appraised value.

2. Size, Layout, and Functionality

Size matters when it comes to home value. Appraisers look closely at your home’s gross living area (GLA)—that is, all livable square footage above ground level. Finished basements and attics may be considered if they meet certain conditions and are accessible from inside the home.

Key considerations include:

• Total square footage of livable space
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Overall layout and flow of the floor plan
• Functionality of spaces (e.g., a three-bedroom house with only one bathroom might appraise lower than expected)
• Permitted additions or conversions (like a garage-turned-bedroom or added sunroom)

Homes with open layouts, plenty of natural light, and usable, modern spaces typically score higher. Conversely, homes with awkward designs or cramped configurations may see a reduction in value—even if square footage is comparable to nearby properties.

3. General Condition and Maintenance

A well-cared-for home sends a clear message to the appraiser: this property has been properly maintained and is less likely to require costly repairs. While minor cosmetic issues won’t drastically affect your value, signs of neglect or deferred maintenance can raise red flags.

Appraisers will take note of:

• Roof condition (age, leaks, missing shingles)
• Windows and doors (drafts, damage, or poor insulation)
• Heating, cooling, and electrical systems
• Plumbing and water fixtures
• Wall and floor finishes
• Evidence of mold, rot, or pests
• Foundation stability and drainage issues

To maintain or improve your home’s value, it’s essential to address any issues proactively—particularly those that affect safety or structural integrity.

4. Home Improvements and Renovations

Not all upgrades are created equal, but strategic improvements can absolutely boost your appraised value. Appraisers evaluate both the quality and relevance of your upgrades to the current market.

Some of the most impactful renovations include:

• Kitchen remodels with modern appliances and finishes
• Bathroom updates that improve style and function
• New roofing and siding for enhanced protection and curb appeal
• Energy-efficient windows and HVAC systems
• Finished basements, attics, or additions that add livable square footage

Keep detailed records of your upgrades—including permits, receipts, and before/after photos. Share this information with the appraiser so they can factor it into their evaluation.

5. Comparable Sales (Comps)

One of the most influential tools in an appraiser’s arsenal is the use of comparable sales, or “comps.” These are recent transactions involving homes similar to yours in:

• Size
• Style
• Age
• Condition
• Location

Comps are typically drawn from within a half-mile to one-mile radius and sold within the past 3 to 6 months. If your area has experienced a surge in demand or development, recent comps could help boost your appraised value. On the other hand, if your neighborhood has seen a string of distressed sales or foreclosures, it might negatively impact your report—even if your home is in better condition.

This is one reason it’s helpful to work with experienced appraisers like those at Eagle Home Appraisal in Gilbert, Arizona. They understand how to apply comps fairly and adjust for unique property features that may not be reflected in raw numbers.

6. The Real Estate Market

Appraisals are time-sensitive. Market conditions at the time of the appraisal play a significant role in your home’s value. Appraisers examine local housing trends, including:

• Inventory levels
• Average days on market
• Interest rates
• Buyer demand vs. seller supply

In a seller’s market, where demand outweighs supply, homes often appraise higher due to increased competition. In contrast, a buyer’s market can push prices down, sometimes below what sellers feel their home is worth. A good appraiser will contextualize your home within these trends to produce a fair valuation.

7. Curb Appeal and Exterior Features

Curb appeal isn’t just important for impressing buyers—it also influences your appraisal. A clean, attractive exterior suggests a home that’s been cared for, inside and out. Appraisers consider:

• Landscaping and lawn health
• Condition of the driveway, walkways, and fencing
• Exterior paint, siding, and trim
• Presence of porches, decks, or patios
• Garage condition and parking availability

While it may seem minor, simple upgrades like fresh mulch, trimmed bushes, or a clean walkway can create a positive impression and subtly enhance your appraised value.

8. Age of the Home

Older homes aren’t necessarily appraised lower, but condition and updates matter more than age alone. A 50-year-old home with updated systems and preserved charm can easily rival—or outperform—a newer build with builder-grade finishes.

Appraisers weigh:

• Age of major systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing)
• Architectural appeal and uniqueness
• Preservation of original features (in historic homes)
• Extent of modern upgrades and code compliance

In general, newer homes do offer fewer unknowns and are typically built to current standards, which can provide an edge. However, character, craftsmanship, and maintenance can help older homes hold or increase value.

Final Thoughts: How to Maximize Your Appraisal

Your home’s appraised value results from a complex blend of objective measurements and market perception. You may not be able to control location or housing demand, but you can control your home’s condition, cleanliness, and presentation.

Here’s how to prepare for your appraisal:

• Tidy both inside and outside—cleanliness matters
• Make minor repairs—fix leaks, cracks, or squeaky doors
• Highlight your upgrades—share documentation and permits
• Ensure easy access to crawl spaces, basements, and garages
• Know your comps—understand what nearby homes have sold for

If you’re in Arizona and want a professional, fair, and accurate evaluation of your home’s value, Eagle Home Appraisal in Gilbert is your trusted partner. Their licensed appraisers combine deep local market knowledge with detailed, objective analysis to provide you with a report that reflects your home’s true worth. When it’s time to schedule your appraisal, their experienced team delivers evaluations that reflect true market value, so you can list your home with confidence and peace of mind.