Tips for getting a higher appraisal & what to SHARE/NOT to share

[Anya K.]

Hi BP community! 

A year ago, my husband and I bought a 3 family that we have since renovated and are in the process of refinancing (This is our first cash-out refinance). We are about a week away from the appraisal and I have heard about putting together a packet for the appraiser that contains comps (if he/she wants them) and a list of work done. My husband and I did 90% of the work and have saved a ton of money on materials. We spent $40,000 (mostly on materials) on renos but it would have been double if not triple if we hired everything out and bought everything retail. The bank knows what we spent; so I am assuming that information will be available to the appraiser. The appraiser will look past the fact that we did most of the work ourselves and more at the actual value everything adds, correct? Also, our bank suggested we list all the materials used, as it increases the value and also highlight property features such as hardwood floors, number of fireplaces, ect. Does anyone have any other tips on what we can do/provide the appraiser with to help get a higher appraisal. Should we include before/after photos? Should we stage the rooms that currently don't have furniture? Also, would anyone be willing to share Appraisal Packet Formats they have used in the past? And lastly, is there anything we should not share with the appraiser that would lead to a lower appraisal?

Thanks in advance for your tips and advice!