Home Sweet Home Appraisal: A How-To

"We're always getting pressure from brokers who want a property to be appraised at a certain figure to make the deal work," said Evans. "That's the nature of the business. If the value isn't there in a property, I'm not going to make it up. But there are brokers who give their business to some poorly trained appraisers who will hit the figures the brokers need because they need the business."

A wide range of state and national appraisers associations work to encourage continuing education and certification for real estate appraisers, as well as education for the property buying public.

"We're not out here to squash your dream home," said Evans. "We're trying to help the process along."

It's possible to do a number of things that can help make the appraisal better.

"A person's attitude can make a difference. We know they want a good high price, whether they're selling it or going through a refinance," said Steve Miller, a Chicago appraiser. "It's best to be friendly, let them in, show them around, and tie up your big dogs!"

"I always say to people, there's nothing on the appraisal form that says whether you're a good housekeeper or not," said Evans. "We're not looking at furniture or judging the art on your walls. We're looking for improvements and damage."

There are little things that an appraiser picks up from experience, such as using the nose. Musty, mildew odors from closets and bathrooms can mean an expensive mold remediation project is due. And if there's a heavy whiff of cat urine, it's a sign that the carpet, no matter how new it is, is probably in need of replacement.

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