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?

Quick Answer: Who Should Attend a Home Appraisal?

In most cases, the homeowner or a real estate agent may attend the appraisal, but it is not required. Appraisers can complete the inspection independently as long as they have access to the property. Some homeowners choose to be present to answer questions or provide information about upgrades.

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.

Do You Need to Be Present for a Home Appraisal?

No, you do not need to be present during a home appraisal. Many appraisals are completed without the homeowner present, especially when access is provided through a lockbox or real estate agent.

However, being present can sometimes be helpful if:

You want to point out upgrades or improvements
You have documentation to share
You want to ensure access to all areas of the home

Who Typically Attends 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.

Should Buyers Attend the Appraisal?

In most cases, buyers do not attend the appraisal. The appraisal is ordered by the lender and is intended to provide an unbiased opinion of value.

Buyers typically receive the appraisal report from their lender after it is completed.

What Should You Do During a Home Appraisal?

If you choose to be present, keep these tips in mind:

Do:

Provide a list of upgrades or improvements
Answer questions if asked
Ensure full access to the property
Learn how to prepare for your appraisal: How to Prepare for a Home Appraisal

Don’t:

Try to influence the appraiser’s opinion
Follow the appraiser around during the inspection
Pressure the appraiser about value

Need An Appraisal In Phoenix AZ?

If you're preparing for an appraisal and want accurate, unbiased results, Master Appraisal Services is here to help.

We serve Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and surrounding areas.