TOMS RIVER / BEFORE YOU RENOVATE
What improvements can affect appraisal value?
Before spending on the house, consider its condition and how it compares with similar homes. A repair bill and an increase in value are different numbers.
The Appraising Group Toms River
2 NJ-37, Toms River, NJ 08753
Published · Updated
Start with condition and useful improvements
A new roof, updated windows or a repaired walkway tells a different story from a freshly painted room. Let the appraiser know what has changed, including work that may be hard to see during the visit.
Repairs and exterior care
Roofing, siding, doors, walkways and routine yard care help describe how the property has been maintained. Fresh paint and minor repairs can improve its presentation, but there is no fixed dollar increase for completing them.
Kitchens, bathrooms and materials
Describe updates to fixtures, cabinets, appliances, flooring and windows. Their age, condition and usefulness matter alongside the rest of the home. An expensive finish may not add what it cost, especially when it goes beyond what is typical of comparable homes.
Finished or converted space
If you have finished a basement or attic, explain how the space is used and when the work was completed. Do not assume every finished area will be treated the same way as the rest of the house.
Before a major project, consider the comparison
The question is how the property compares with similar homes, including those that have sold. Highly personalized improvements or unusual conversions may cost more than buyers are willing to pay for them.
If you need a value before deciding on renovations, say so when you call. That is a different question from documenting work already completed.
Three useful steps before the visit
- Write a short list of improvements.Include what was done and approximately when. Note major replacements such as the roof, windows or heating and cooling equipment.
- Gather the records you have.Receipts and before-and-after photographs help explain the work. Keep them together so you can share the details without relying on memory.
- Make the property accessible.Clear a path to rooms and finished areas. Ordinary tidying helps the visit; it is not a reason to take on a renovation before the appraiser arrives.
Handling a family home or an estate?
You may need to understand the value before deciding whether to repair, keep or sell the property. Begin with the purpose of the appraisal and the date the value should reflect. If your attorney has provided instructions, have those available.
For a written quote, provide the property address, property type, intended use of the appraisal, valuation date and any deadline. Mention finished or converted areas and access arrangements. Ask for the fee and delivery estimate for that assignment before scheduling.