The following are helpful items to have available for the appraiser when she arrives: A plot plan or survey of the improvements and land, if available. A list of major improvements and upgrades, their cost and the date they were completed. A title policy that describes encroachments or easements. Information on the most recent sale or offering of the subject property. A copy of the pending purchase agreement and current listing write up. The following are items to be taken care of before the appraiser’s visit: Make minor repairs to leaky faucets, broken steps or railing etc. Make sure that all areas of the home are accessible, including attic and crawl space. If the appraisal is for an FHA mortgage: Be sure there is no peeling paint. Scrape loose paint and repaint those areas. Install Carbon Monoxide and smoke detectors especially near bedrooms. Install hand rails in stairwells and railings on decks and porches where needed for safety. Make sure that outlets in kitchen and baths that are near water have ground fault reset capability. Know where your well and septic tank are located. All these items can help facilitate the inspection and appraisal process.