Why doesn’t my appraisal match what I thought it would include?

Bedrooms and bathrooms

Bedrooms must have a window and a closet to be counted on the appraisal. Some builders may label rooms without closets as dens, which can be used as a bedroom but cannot be officially counted as such. Additionally, rooms in the basement are listed separately from those in the main, above-grade area of the house. If the bathroom is under construction and not currently usable, it cannot be included in the bathroom count on the appraisal.

Square footage

The square footage (also known as GLA) of a property can be accounted for in several different sections of the appraisal report. Garages, attics, basements, and ADUs are listed separately from the main above grade living area of the house. This is why the total square footage may appear different than expected on your appraisal.