Mississippi Appraisal Associates, LLC
Residential Real Estate Appraisal & Consulting Services

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Preparing for a Mississippi Appraisal

Mississippi appraisers must generally document the interior and exterior condition of the property on a walk-through, taking notice of such features as size, quality, parking, number of rooms, and general layout of the subject property. Improvements (buildings, such as homes) are measured for square footage of both heating and cooled areas as well as others. The subject property is also photographed.

A Mississippi appraisal focuses on the real property, including improvements (homes, outbuildings, etc.) attached to the site. Personal property is not generally included in the appraisal. Items that are not permanently affixed to the real estate, such as portable storage buildings, above-ground pools, refrigerators, satellite dishes, and furniture, are generally considered part of the personal property and are therefore not included in the appraisal estimate of value. Homeowner’s can prepare for a visit by a licensed Mississippi residential appraiser by having a few items on hand when the appraiser visits the site. The following items can assist the appraiser in obtaining an accurate estimate of the value of your home:

• Survey of the house and property
• Deed or title report showing the legal description
• Tax bill
• Plans and Specs of home by an architect
• List of recent improvements, updates, remodeling, or additions, that has recently been completed (e.g., April 1999 - new furnace; May 2001 - new carpet in living room, etc.)
• A copy of any previous appraisal will usually expedite the process

In addition, although many times a home’s value is partially determined by location, size, and environmental factors, physical appearance and home maintenance also greatly effect the market value of home. To prepare a home for the appraiser, the owner should consider these guidelines:

• Keep lawn, basement, and home free of clutter and debris.
• Exterior and interior paining make a home appear newer and in better condition.
• Proper maintenance of electrical, heating, roof, windows and doors show that the home is safe and well cared for.
• Bathrooms should not have mold and mildew present.
• Pets should be temporarily kenneled or out of the way during the appraisal appointment.