Forward Bank

The valuation of your home will consider a variety of contributing factors. The appraised value will weigh everything from location and demographics to the physical attributes of your home. These are key influences.

1. Location, location, location

First is the location. The neighborhood's location value will be relative to its proximity to area schools, amenities and accessibility to those amenities. A home's location within the neighborhood can add positive value if it is in a cul-de-sac or on a large lot and does not back up to any main roads. Location value is reinforced if surrounding homes are clean, neat and owner-occupied.

2. Upgrades

Value will be influenced by what upgrades and updates are contributing to making a home more current in quality, energy efficiency and safety.

3. Newer Construction

Appraised value is enhanced when a home has been built in the last 20 years because it presents a lower risk for needed repairs and has newer amenities.

4. Design

Buyers will pay higher prices when the design of a home is timeless and has good appeal for the majority of buyers.

5. Curb Appeal

As important as the value of the interior of a home is in the appraisal process, so is the exterior landscaping and overall curb appeal. Landscaping that is easy to care for and complements the home's exterior will yield more value. Check out Simple Ways to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal.

6. Bedrooms & Bathrooms

The value of the number of bedrooms and baths will be of prime importance when comparing to competing sold and listed homes. As the bedroom and bath count goes up, so does the value of the property.

7. Square Footage

The square footage and the efficiency of the floor plan contribute to the value. Finished livable basements add value, but not to the same extent as those living spaces that are above grade.

If you have any questions about home appraisals, please contact one of our mortgage lenders. We are always here to help guide you so you can make the decisions that are best for your goals.