When it comes time to sell your home in Calabasas, one of the most influential steps in the process is the appraisal. A strong appraisal can validate your asking price, support buyer confidence, and keep your escrow moving smoothly. With a few strategic preparations—and the guidance of a seasoned local team like The Improta Team—you can help set the stage for the best possible valuation.
Below are key steps every Calabasas or Hidden Hills homeowner should take before the appraiser arrives.
1. Boost Curb Appeal (Even Small Touches Count)
First impressions matter. Appraisers note the property’s exterior condition immediately, and simple improvements can go a long way:
-
Fresh landscaping or trimmed hedges
-
Power-washed hardscape
-
Clean walkways and entryways
-
Repaired fencing, lighting, or address numbers
In gated Calabasas neighborhoods like The Oaks, Mountain Park Estates, Calabasas Park Estates, and Mulholland Heights, curb appeal is a major value signal.
2. Declutter & Deep Clean Every Space
A spotless home doesn’t technically raise square footage or structural value—but it absolutely affects the appraiser’s perception of condition. A clean, organized home feels well-maintained.
We always recommend:
-
A full kitchen and bathroom deep clean
-
Clear countertops and surfaces
-
Organized closets and garage
-
Fresh linens and towels
-
Neutralizing heavy odors
Our team often coordinates cleaning vendors so sellers don’t have to worry about a thing.
3. Complete Minor Repairs Ahead of Time
Appraisers notice deferred maintenance. Fixing small issues can prevent the appraiser from mentally deducting value.
Quick wins include:
-
Touch-up paint
-
Repairing loose hardware
-
Replacing burned-out bulbs
-
Fixing leaky faucets
-
Patching drywall
-
Ensuring doors close properly
These are inexpensive improvements that make a significant impression.
4. Prepare a Detailed List of Upgrades & Improvements
This is where The Improta Team adds tremendous value.
We help sellers compile a room-by-room upgrades list—often one of the biggest factors that can raise an appraised value. In Calabasas and Hidden Hills, upgrades like these especially matter:
-
Kitchen remodels
-
New roofs
-
Updated windows
-
Flooring upgrades
-
HVAC improvements
-
Bathroom renovations
-
Smart-home tech
-
Solar systems or Tesla Powerwalls
We ensure your improvements are clearly documented and presented to the appraiser in a clean, professional format.
5. Highlight Community and Lifestyle Benefits
In Calabasas, lifestyle adds real value. Appraisers consider location, schools, and amenities—and your home should reflect its setting.
Depending on your neighborhood, we highlight proximity or access to:
-
Award-winning Las Virgenes Unified schools
-
Local parks and trails
-
The Calabasas Tennis & Swim Center
-
The Commons at Calabasas
-
Gated community amenities
-
Equestrian facilities in Hidden Hills
-
Community security and privacy features
We make sure appraisers are aware of what makes your location standout.
6. Ensure Easy Access to All Areas of the Property
Appraisers need to see everything—including areas you might forget about:
-
Attic
-
Garage
-
Side yards
-
Water heaters, HVAC units, electrical panels
-
Pool equipment rooms
-
ADUs or bonus spaces
We walk your property in advance to make sure everything is accessible and presentable.
7. Provide Comparable Sales & Local Market Context
As local experts with decades of experience, we know the Calabasas and Hidden Hills markets better than anyone. We often prepare a set of nearby comparable sales that reflect your home’s value, ensuring the appraiser sees accurate, relevant data.
This includes:
-
Recent sales in your exact neighborhood
-
Adjustments for amenities, lot size, views, privacy
-
Premiums for remodeled vs. original homes
Our goal is always to support the highest justified valuation.
8. Present the Home Like It’s a Showing
On the day of the appraisal:
-
Open blinds and drapes
-
Turn on all lights
-
Play soft music
-
Adjust temperature for comfort
-
Put away pet items
-
Tidy outdoor spaces
A warm, welcoming atmosphere helps the appraiser experience the home the way a prospective buyer would.
How The Improta Team Maximizes Your Appraisal Outcome
Preparing for an appraisal isn’t just about cleaning up—it’s about showcasing your home’s true value. Our hands-on approach includes:
-
Walking the property with you
-
Organizing vendor support
-
Providing an itemized improvements list
-
Delivering neighborhood comps
-
Ensuring every detail is ready before the appraiser arrives
This level of preparation can make a measurable difference in your final valuation—and ultimately, in your net proceeds.
Ready to Prepare Your Calabasas or Hidden Hills Home for Appraisal?
We’ve helped hundreds of local homeowners achieve exceptional results, and we’re here to guide you through every step.
FAQs About Calabasas Appraisal
What do appraisers look for? Condition, upgrades, recent comps, and overall presentation.
Should I do repairs before the appraisal? Yes, fix visible issues—small repairs can lead to a higher value.
Do landscaping and curb appeal matter? Definitely—first impressions count even for appraisers.
How is square footage measured? By exterior wall dimensions—accurate records help avoid confusion.
Will remodeling increase my appraisal? Quality upgrades usually help, but market conditions are key.
How soon will I get results? Usually a few days after the visit.
Who guides appraisals in the area? Jason & Missy Improta—The Improta Team at eXp Luxury Realty handle every step with diligence.
Getting Ready for Appraisal?
Contact Jason & Missy Improta for tips, value-boosting improvements, and a full prep checklist for your Calabasas home appraisal.
Understand your home value here
CLICK HERE for a history of Calabasas