What to Expect During a Home Appraisal in Montgomery County, TX
.png)
If you’ve got a home appraisal coming up, you might be wondering—what exactly happens during the inspection? Do you need to clean? Should you light a candle and make the place smell like fresh-baked cookies? (Spoiler: The appraiser isn’t there to judge your interior decorating skills.)
Whether you're refinancing, selling, or protesting your property taxes, knowing what to expect can help the process go smoothly. Let’s break it down so you’re fully prepared when the appraiser shows up at your door.
How Long Does a Home Appraisal Take?
The on-site appraisal typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and complexity of the home. If you live in a 1,200-square-foot home in Conroe, it’ll likely be on the quicker side. If you’re sitting on a 5,000-square-foot waterfront property in The Woodlands or Lake Conroe, expect it to take a little longer.
What Does the Appraiser Do During the Visit?
The appraiser’s job is to determine your home’s fair market value. Here’s what they’ll be doing while they’re there:
✅ Measuring the home to calculate accurate square footage (GLA – Gross Living Area)
✅ Taking photos of the interior and exterior for documentation
✅ Noting the home’s condition, layout, and any updates or renovations
✅ Checking safety features if required (like smoke detectors for FHA/VA loans)
✅ Assessing exterior spaces—porches, patios, pools, and storage buildings
What the appraiser won’t do:
❌ Comment on your furniture, paint colors, or how many laundry piles are stacked in the corner
❌ Do a home inspection—this is about value, not repairs
How to Prepare for a Home Appraisal
No need for a deep clean, but here are a few simple ways to get your home appraisal-ready:
✔️ Make sure all areas are accessible—including attics, crawl spaces, and storage areas
✔️ Tidy up and remove clutter so the appraiser can move freely
✔️ Secure pets to avoid distractions
✔️ Complete minor repairs—fix leaky faucets, touch up paint, and secure loose handrails
✔️ Provide a list of updates—if you’ve made improvements like a new roof, flooring, or HVAC, let the appraiser know
What Happens After the Appraisal?
Once the inspection is done, the appraiser will:
- Research recent comparable sales in your area
- Analyze market trends and neighborhood factors
- Finalize the report, which usually takes 2-5 business days
If your appraisal was ordered by a lender, they’ll receive the report directly. If you ordered it yourself (for a tax protest or private sale), you’ll get a copy once it’s completed.
Final Thoughts
A home appraisal is a straightforward process—allow access, provide any relevant details, and let the appraiser do their job. If you have any questions about how your home’s value is determined, don’t hesitate to ask.
Need an appraisal in Montgomery County, TX? I provide accurate, professional home appraisals in Conroe, The Woodlands, Montgomery, and surrounding areas. Visit Lake Conroe Appraisals to learn more or schedule an appointment.
And if you prefer a visual breakdown, check out my latest YouTube video on what to expect during a home appraisal below!
Comments
Post a Comment