AZ Checklists
Ultimate Home Appraisal Checklist for Buyers & Sellers

Ultimate Home Appraisal Checklist for Buyers & Sellers

Comprehensive home appraisal checklist covering property documentation, site features, structural elements, systems, and market analysis.

Comprehensive Home Appraisal Preparation Guide

A professional home appraisal is essential for understanding a property’s true market value. This checklist walks you through reviewing property documents, assessing structural integrity, inspecting systems like HVAC and plumbing, evaluating exterior features, and considering market trends. Following this ensures transparency, accuracy, and confidence in your home’s valuation process.

1. Property & Legal Documentation

1Copy of title deed / ownership document
2Recent property tax receipts
3Survey / plot map / site plan
4Zoning classification & land use documents
5Building / renovation permits (with approval)
6Past appraisal or valuation reports
7Floor plans / architectural blueprints
8Certificate of occupancy (if applicable)
9Easements, right of way, or encroachment details
10Any restrictions / covenants / HOA policies

2. Site & External Features

1Site area / lot dimensions
2Topography and slope of land
3Drainage condition (water flows away from house)
4Accessibility (road, driveway condition)
5Boundary walls, fencing, gates
6Landscaping, trees, hedges, lawns
7Exterior lighting and security features
8Exterior paving, sidewalks, paths
9External utilities (sewer, water, electric entry point)
10External obstructions or negative influences (noise, adjacent undesirable land use)

3. Foundation, Structural & Roof

1Foundation cracks, settlement, shifting
2Structural beams, columns, load-bearing walls
3Evidence of subsidence or soil movement
4Roof structure, rafters, trusses
5Roof covering condition (tiles, shingles, metal)
6Gutters, downspouts, flashing integrity
7Chimney, skylights, roof penetrations
8Waterproofing, damp proofing in walls/floors
9Attic space — insulation, ventilation, leaks
10Structural repairs or reinforcements

4. Exterior Walls, Doors & Windows

1Wall finishes (paint, plaster, cladding)
2Cracks, bulging, spalling, moisture damage
3Exterior doors — condition & security
4Windows — frames, glazing, seals
5Weather stripping and water-tightness
6Shutters, awnings, canopies
7Overhangs, eaves, soffits
8Balconies, terraces, railings
9Exterior trim, moldings, decorative elements
10Maintenance history / recent repairs

5. Interior Spaces & Finishes

1Room layout, flow, and usable area
2Ceiling height, walls, floors condition
3Floor finishes: tiles, hardwood, carpeting
4Wall & ceiling finishes: paint, wallpaper, plaster
5Interior doors, hardware, hinges
6Built-in cabinetry, shelving, closets
7Moldings, baseboards, trim, mold detail
8Staircases, railings, balustrades
9Interior lighting fixtures, switches
10General wear & tear, cleanliness

6. Mechanical, Plumbing & HVAC Systems

1Heating system – furnace, boiler, radiators
2Cooling / air conditioning system
3Hot water system / water heater
4Plumbing piping, fixtures, water pressure
5Sanitary drainage, vents, traps
6Septic or sewer connection (if applicable)
7Gas piping and safe installation
8Ventilation systems, exhaust fans
9Electrical wiring, panel, service capacity
10Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors

7. Electrical, Lighting & Safety Systems

1Main electrical service panel & capacity
2Sub-panels, circuit breakers, fuses
3Wiring condition, exposed wires, insulation
4Switches, outlets, GFCI or safety devices
5Lighting fixtures inside & out
6Emergency lighting, exit signage (if applicable)
7Grounding / earthing system
8Fire alarms, security systems, CCTV
9Surge protection, backup power systems
10Safety compliance (local electrical codes)

8. Auxiliary / Special Features & Amenities

1Garage, carport, covered parking
2Pool, spa, water features
3Outbuildings: shed, guest house, pergola
4Solar panels, alternative energy systems
5Home automation, smart systems
6Fireplace, chimney, hearth
7Decks, patios, verandas
8Elevator, lift (if applicable)
9Window treatments, blinds, shutters
10Unique architectural or luxury features

9. Comparables & Market / Neighborhood Context

1Recent sales of similar homes (within 6–12 months)
2Proximity, size, condition of comparable homes
3Price per square foot trends
4Neighborhood amenities (schools, shops, parks)
5Infrastructure (roads, utilities, public transport)
6Demand vs supply, market trend direction
7External negative influences (airports, factories)
8Zoning changes or planned developments
9Vacant lots or foreclosures nearby
10Time on market in area

10. Appraiser's Notes, Adjustments & Reconciliation

1Adjustments for differences with comparables
2Cost approach: replacement / reproduction cost estimate
3Income approach (if rental / income property)
4Any special / extraordinary assumptions
5Subject's effective age vs actual age
6Deferred maintenance or repairs deduction
7Reconciliation of valuation methods
8Final "as is" value and "as repaired" value
9Assumptions, limiting conditions, exclusions
10Photographs, sketches, maps, supporting exhibits
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