Still feels like a gamble though... I wish there was more control over it.
That’s exactly how I felt—like you’re just rolling the dice and hoping for the best. Did your realtor friend mention if appraisers usually factor in renovations or updates you’ve done, or is it mostly about square footage and comps? I always wonder if repainting or fixing up the yard actually moves the needle, or if it’s just wishful thinking.
I’ve seen appraisers give a little bump for things like a new kitchen or bathroom, but honestly, it’s not always as much as you’d hope. One time, a client spent a ton on landscaping and was convinced it’d boost their value, but the appraiser barely mentioned it in the report. It’s mostly about comps and square footage, but if your updates are really noticeable compared to the neighbors, sometimes it helps. Still feels like a bit of a crapshoot, though.