Preparing for Your Home Appraisal in Texas

by Lyndsey Johnson

If you’re planning to refinance your home or sell in today’s Texas market, one of the most important steps in the process is a home appraisal. The appraiser’s assessment will determine your property’s current market value — which directly impacts your loan-to-value ratio (LTV), mortgage interest rate, and even your ability to eliminate PMI.For homeowners in Southlake, Frisco, Prosper, and across DFW, a strong appraisal can help you unlock home equity, get approved for a better refinance deal, or sell faster at a higher price.Here’s how to prepare your home to make the best impression on the appraiser and potentially boost your home’s value — with just a few simple (and affordable) upgrades.

Why Appraisal Prep Matters for Refinancing

When refinancing your home, the lender will order an appraisal to confirm the property’s value. That number determines:

How much equity you can borrow (for a cash-out refinance)
Whether you qualify to remove PMI
What interest rate you may receive

If your home hasn’t been updated in a while, or if there’s deferred maintenance, it may come in lower than expected. But with a little strategic prep, you can position your home for a higher valuation.

7 Ways to Prepare Your Home for a Smooth Appraisal

1. Clean and Declutter Thoroughly

A clean, well-organized space makes a strong impression. While appraisers focus on the condition and features of the home, a tidy presentation shows that you care for your property.

Affiliate Pick: Microfiber Cloths – Get your baseboards, mirrors, and counters looking spotless without using harsh chemicals.

Focus Areas:

Wipe down baseboards, ceiling fans, and windows
Declutter surfaces, closets, and floors
Remove any visible stains or pet odors

2. Replace Burnt-Out Light Bulbs & Improve Lighting

Good lighting can make your home feel bigger, cleaner, and newer — all of which contribute positively to the appraiser’s perception.

Affiliate Pick: Bright White LED Light Bulbs – 24 Pack – These energy-efficient bulbs are perfect for brightening dark rooms before the appraisal.Replace outdated or yellow-toned bulbs with bright white LEDs, especially in:

Kitchens
Bathrooms
Hallways
Entryways

3. Tackle Minor Repairs

Appraisers take note of functionality. A loose doorknob or leaky faucet won’t tank your value, but several minor issues can signal poor upkeep.

Patch small wall holes
Fix cracked outlet covers
Re-caulk sinks or tubs
Touch up chipped paint

These updates are quick, low-cost, and show your home is well-maintained.

4. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter — and appraisers take a photo of the front of your home for their report. Make sure it shines.

Simple wins:

Trim shrubs and edge the lawn
Power wash the driveway and front steps
Add fresh mulch or flowers to garden beds
Clean the front door, doormat, and address numbers

5. Make a List of Upgrades and Improvements

Leave a printed sheet for the appraiser with recent improvements you’ve made, including dates and costs. Include:

Roof replacements
HVAC upgrades
Flooring changes
Kitchen or bathroom renovations

This saves the appraiser time and ensures they don’t miss value-boosting upgrades.

6. Ensure All Utilities Are On and Accessible

The appraiser will need to confirm that all systems (plumbing, electric, HVAC) are functional. Make sure:

All light switches and faucets work
AC or heat is running (if seasonally appropriate)
Garage, attic, and crawlspaces are accessible

7. Be Present — But Don’t Hover

It’s okay to be home, especially if you need to unlock doors or guide access to certain areas. However, give the appraiser space to do their job.Leave pets secured and avoid following them room to room unless necessary.

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

You don’t need to spend thousands remodeling your home before an appraisal — but a few well-placed improvements can make a big difference. For Texas homeowners looking to refinance, especially in competitive high-value areas like Southlake or Frisco, these steps can help you secure a better deal and increase your borrowing power.

Let Emmly Financial Help You Refinance Smarter

At Emmly Financial, we work with Texas homeowners to navigate every step of the refinance process — from appraisal prep to final closing. If you’re considering a cash-out refinance, rate reduction, or removing PMI, we’re here to help you make the most of your equity. Ready to refinance or need help preparing for your appraisal? Contact Emmly Financial today for a free refinance consultation.