Who Should Attend The Home Appraisal?

When a home is being bought, sold, or refinanced, a professional appraisal is often required to determine its market value. But who should be present when the appraiser arrives?

While the appraiser is the only one conducting the evaluation, others may be allowed or encouraged to attend depending on the situation. Knowing who should (and shouldn’t) be present can help ensure a smooth and unbiased appraisal process.

 

Who Can Attend a Home Appraisal?

 

1. The Homeowner (for Refinances or Private Appraisals)

If the appraisal is being conducted for a refinance, home equity loan, or private property valuation, the homeowner is typically present. While homeowners can provide helpful details about the property—such as recent upgrades or repairs—they should avoid hovering or pressuring the appraiser. The appraiser’s job is to remain neutral and base the valuation on objective market factors, not personal opinions.

 

2. The Seller

Sellers may be present during an appraisal but should remain professional and avoid trying to influence the appraiser. If a seller chooses to be there, they can provide a list of recent improvements, such as renovations, new appliances, or roof repairs. However, they should let the appraiser work without interruption.

 

3. Real Estate Agents

Real estate agents may attend the appraisal, but their role is limited. An agent can provide comparable sales (comps) and market insights, but they should avoid pushing for a specific value. Appraisers rely on their own research, and while comps can be helpful, the appraiser must make an independent judgment.

 

Who Should NOT Attend?

 

• Unapproved Third Parties – Friends, extended family members, or anyone who is not directly involved in the transaction should not be present.
• Buyers During a Standard Appraisal – Unless required by a loan program (like VA loans), buyers should not attend as it can create unnecessary pressure.
• Tenants (if Avoidable) – If the home is tenant-occupied, their presence can make the appraisal more complicated. Ideally, the appraisal should be scheduled when the home is vacant.

 

Keep the Appraisal Process Smooth

A home appraisal is a professional assessment that should be unbiased and efficient. While some individuals - like homeowners, sellers, and agents - may be present, it’s important to respect the appraiser’s role and avoid interfering. By understanding who should attend an appraisal, you can help ensure a fair, accurate, and stress-free process.

 

Need An Appraisal In Phoenix AZ?

At Master Appraisal Services, we prioritize professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity in every appraisal we perform. Whether you need an appraisal for a divorce, estate, or any other purpose, you can trust us to handle your information with care and respect.

From single family homes, age restricted communities. condos, golf properties, exclusive estate or mobile homes - there's nothing we can't handle in the Phoenix area including Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, San Tan Valley and surrounding areas.

Give us a call to schedule your appraisal.