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When you’re applying for a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), the appraised value of your home plays a major role in how much equity you can borrow. The higher the appraisal, the more financial flexibility you’ll have. Fortunately, there are smart, cost-effective strategies to boost your home’s appraised value before the inspection.
Here are 10 practical ways to maximize your home’s value and increase your chances of HELOC approval with favorable terms.
1. Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions count. Landscaping improvements like fresh sod, colorful flowers, a pressure-washed walkway, and a well-painted front door can raise perceived value quickly.
Tip: A $300–$500 landscaping investment can yield a return of 5–11% in appraised value.
2. Update the Kitchen
Kitchens sell homes—and appraisers know it. Even minor updates like new cabinet hardware, updated lighting, or modern faucets can make a big difference.
3. Refresh Paint and Flooring
Neutral, modern wall colors and clean, well-maintained flooring give your home a fresh and move-in-ready appeal. Repainting and minor floor repairs can provide significant ROI without the cost of full remodels.
4. Declutter and Deep Clean
Appraisers look at cleanliness and general maintenance as indicators of how well the home is cared for. Remove clutter, stage furniture, and deep clean every room.
5. Fix Maintenance Issues
Take care of lingering repairs like leaky faucets, damaged baseboards, or cracked windows. These small issues can detract from the overall value more than you think.
6. Modernize the Bathroom
Small bathroom upgrades—new mirrors, updated fixtures, and clean grout—can quickly improve visual appeal. Even just replacing the shower curtain and installing brighter lights can create a more luxurious feel.
7. Upgrade Lighting
Outdated light fixtures can make your home feel tired. Swapping them out for energy-efficient LED fixtures can brighten rooms and give a more contemporary appearance.
8. Highlight Energy Efficiency
Install a smart thermostat, seal drafty windows, or upgrade to ENERGY STAR® appliances. These improvements suggest long-term savings and modern features, which appraisers value.
9. Add Usable Living Space
Converting a basement, attic, or garage into livable square footage (if code permits) adds real value. Additional bedrooms or office spaces especially raise appraisal estimates.
10. Document Improvements
Keep a record of all upgrades and repairs. Receipts, before-and-after photos, and contractor details can help appraisers recognize your home’s increased worth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much can small upgrades really increase my home’s value?
Even modest improvements like fresh paint and landscaping can boost appraised value by several thousand dollars. It’s about presenting a well-maintained, move-in-ready property.
Should I renovate before a HELOC appraisal?
Full renovations aren’t necessary. Focus on minor repairs and cosmetic upgrades that improve functionality and appearance without overspending.
What if my appraisal comes in lower than expected?
You can dispute the appraisal with documentation of recent comps or improvements. Or, consider waiting and reapplying after completing more value-adding upgrades.
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By strategically prepping your home before an appraisal, you set yourself up for a better HELOC offer—whether you’re consolidating debt, funding renovations, or planning big life changes. Don’t leave money on the table—start upgrading today.
Unlock Your Home Equity with Figure
- Approval in 5 minutes. Funding in as few as 5 days
- Borrow $20K-$400K
- Consolidate debt or finance home projects
- Fastest way to turn home equity into cash
- 100% online application
Our advice is based on experience in the mortgage industry and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your goal of owning a home. We may receive compensation from partner banks when you view mortgage rates listed on our website.
