Appraisal Came In Lower Than Expected—Now What?
Honestly, it’s wild how little weight energy efficiency gets. I’ve had buyers show off their net-zero bills and the appraiser just kind of shrugs, like you said. If you’re stuck with a low number, here’s what I usually tell folks: first, ask your lender if they’ll do a reconsideration of value—sometimes you can submit additional comps or info. If that doesn’t fly, you might be able to negotiate with the seller or builder (I’ve seen both sides budge). Worst case, you’re looking at bringing more cash to closing or walking away... which stinks, but sometimes it’s the only move. The system’s definitely lagging behind where building science is at.
Appraisal Came In Lower Than Expected—Now What?
Funny thing—I’ve actually seen a few appraisers factor in energy efficiency, but it’s rare and honestly seems to depend on who you get. I do think sometimes we overestimate how much buyers care about net-zero features, too. In my experience, unless the market’s really tuned into green building, those upgrades don’t always translate to higher sale prices or appraisals. It’s frustrating, but maybe part of the issue is that the value just isn’t as visible as granite countertops or a fancy bathroom remodel.
Appraisal Came In Lower Than Expected—Now What?
Totally get where you’re coming from. I ran into this exact thing last year—spent a chunk on solar panels and better insulation, but the appraiser barely mentioned them. Here’s what helped me: first, I gathered all my receipts and any documentation showing lower utility bills. Then, I asked my agent to pull comps with similar upgrades (not easy, but sometimes you find one). If you really think the appraisal missed something big, you can request a reconsideration with supporting docs. It’s a bit of a hassle, but sometimes it nudges things up a little. Still, like you said, buyers seem to care more about kitchens than kilowatts... kind of wild.
Appraisal Came In Lower Than Expected—Now What?
Man, I feel you on this. It’s wild how much effort goes into upgrades that barely get a nod from appraisers. I’ve seen it time and again—people pour their hearts (and wallets) into energy efficiency, but unless it’s granite counters or a fancy bathroom, it’s like it doesn’t exist. Still, don’t let it get you down. The market’s slow to catch up, but these improvements do matter in the long run. Sometimes you just have to play the long game and trust that value shows up eventually, even if it’s not on paper right now.
...people pour their hearts (and wallets) into energy efficiency, but unless it’s granite counters or a fancy bathroom, it’s like it doesn’t exist.
Man, I totally get this. We put in new windows and extra insulation last year thinking it’d bump our value, but the appraiser barely mentioned it. It stings, especially when you’re counting every dollar. I keep telling myself at least our bills are lower now, even if the appraisal didn’t budge much. Maybe down the road buyers will care more about that stuff... for now, just gotta hang in there.
