Want Your Home to Appraise Higher? Do This First

So, you’ve scheduled a home appraisal for refinancing, mortgage insurance, or just to figure out what your property is actually worth before making your next move.

No pressure, right?

The good news? You can take a few smart steps to help boost that final number. Appraisers aren’t looking for marble countertops or trendy backsplash tiles, but they do look for overall condition, structure, and comparison-worthy value.

Today we want to help you on your appraisal journey, So, here are 5 things that you should know (and do) before appraisers show up to your door (quite literally).

1. Pull Your Own “Like for Like” Comparisons

Before a real estate appraiser even steps through the door, you should already be on sites like HouseSigma or Realtor.ca checking comparable properties in your Toronto neighbourhood. But here’s the trick: only look at like-for-like comparisons.

When comparing to similar properties you should think about:

• Same (or very close) square footage
• Same number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Same style of home (a brick bungalow isn’t the same as a vinyl two-storey)
• Similar features: finished basement, garage, pool, etc.

Appraisers usually pull comps from homes within a kilometer or less, especially in denser areas of Toronto, and your research can help support your case, especially if you’re trying to hit a specific number.

2. Focus on What Actually Matters

Let’s bust a myth: appraisers don’t care about your paint colors.

However, chipped paint on a front door? Loose light switches? Exposed outlets? That stuff doesn’t leave a good impression.

Appraisers most likely WILL notice:

• Gaps in brick and mortar
• Signs of foundation issues
• Unfinished projects (like missing shelf pieces or exposed wires)
• Obvious wear and tear

They’re not doing a deep forensic inspection, but if something feels incomplete or neglected, it may lower perceived value. So no, you don’t need a full reno—but small fixes matter.

3. Walk with the Appraiser (Politely)

If you’re home during the appraisal, don’t hover, but do walk the house with them. Answer questions. Be helpful. And yes, it’s okay to casually mention what you’re aiming for (especially if you need a minimum value for a refinance).

One Toronto homeowner shared to us what value they were hoping for, and worked to justify it, thanks to some prep work on their end.

4. Be Organized with Improvements & Paperwork

This is a game-changer: create a simple spreadsheet that lists all the upgrades or renovations you’ve done (roof replacements, new windows, finished basement, whatever) with estimated costs.

Bonus points if you:

• Attach receipts
• Include your like-for-like comparisons
• Highlight the target value you’re aiming for

You’re not trying to sway the appraiser unfairly, you’re just making it easier for them to build a strong, justified report. A win-win situation!

5. Clean & Clear = Higher Confidence

This isn’t a home staging. No need to hire a cleaning crew. But a clean, tidy space shows pride of ownership, which goes a long way.

Quick checklist:

• No dishes in the sink
• Floors clear and swept
• Loose wires covered
• Shelf brackets? Put the shelf on before the appraisal photo!

It’s all about showing the home in its best condition without looking like it’s mid-project. You want the appraiser to see a finished space, not one under construction.

Don’t Overthink It, but Don’t Wing It Either

Whether it’s for a mortgage appraisal, residential appraisal, or property appraisal for selling, a little prep can make a big difference. Appraisers from real estate appraisal firms in Toronto are looking for condition, comparables, and confidence in value, not perfection.

And if you’re unsure where to start? We’re Here to Help

At Appraisal Hub, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners across the GTA understand their property’s true value with reliable, accurate appraisal services. Our certified appraisers know Toronto’s real estate market inside and out (because we live and work here too).

Whether you’re purchasing, refinancing, or just curious about your home’s value, we’re the real estate appraisal company that makes it easy.

Contact us today, and let’s get your home ready to impress.