You can be available to answer property questions without accompanying the appraiser through each part of the visit. Ask what arrangement will work for the appointment.
Key Points:
Appraisers Welcome Useful Information:Appraisers appreciate when homeowners or agents provide information that could lead to a more accurate appraisal, such as details about recent upgrades or neighborhood insights.Following the Appraiser Room-to-Room Is Not Necessary:It is common for appraisers to conduct their inspection alone. Most appraisers prefer to work independently to focus on their observations and notes without interruptions.Be Accessible, Not Overbearing:You should be accessible—either in person or by phone—if the appraiser has questions. If you are present, give them space to do their job. Hovering or attempting to influence the process can be counterproductive and may even be seen as an attempt to sway the outcome, which appraisers are trained to resist.When to Provide Information:If you have a list of recent improvements, unique features, or relevant comparable sales, have this information ready and offer it at the beginning or end of the inspection. Do not attempt to steer the appraiser’s judgment or follow them closely to point out every detail.If you cannot attend, agree who will provide access and how property questions can be answered.Comparison Table: Approaches to Appraiser Interaction
| Approach | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Walk around with appraiser | Can clarify upgrades, answer questions directly | May disrupt appraiser’s workflow, seem intrusive |
| Be present, but give space | Available for questions, less disruptive | May miss chance to clarify something in real time |
| Not present at all | Appraiser works undisturbed | Not available to answer questions or clarify info |
Practical arrangements
If you are present, do not follow the appraiser room-to-room. Give them space and let them ask questions as needed.Do not attempt to influence the appraiser’s opinion or value—this can be seen as unethical and may backfire.Being available by phone may be useful if that fits the agreed access arrangement.