Do You Need to Fix Repairs Before an Appraisal in San Francisco?

Author: Ms San Francisco Real Estate | Last Updated: November, 2025

Are you planning to sell your home in San Francisco? If so, you likely face a common dilemma. Specifically, should you fix repairs before the appraisal?

In reality, the answer depends on your goals. For example, the buyer’s loan type matters. Also, the severity of the damage plays a role. Therefore, understanding the rules is essential. Otherwise, you might waste money on unnecessary fixes.

Ms. San Francisco Real Estate is here to guide you. Below is a clear breakdown of what to fix, what to ignore, and how to maximize your value.

🏠 Understanding the Appraisal Process

First, let’s define the process. A home appraisal is a professional test. Basically, it determines your property’s market value. Crucially, lenders use this to approve mortgages.

In San Francisco, the stakes are high. Since the median price is over $1.3 million, buyers are picky. Consequently, even small defects can hurt your value.

Typically, appraisers evaluate three main factors:

Details: First, they check the size and layout.
Comps: Next, they look at recent sales in your neighborhood.
Condition: Finally, they inspect upgrades and safety features.

However, not all repairs are equal. Therefore, you must prioritize.

🛠️ The “Must-Fix” List: Major Repairs

Generally, some issues are deal-breakers. If you ignore these, the bank may deny the loan. Specifically, this applies to safety hazards.

Here are the critical areas to address:

1. Structural and Safety Issues

Most importantly, the house must be safe. For instance, foundation cracks are a red flag. Also, roof leaks are serious. Therefore, these usually require repair before closing.

2. Water Damage and Mold

Similarly, water is an enemy. If appraisers see water stains, they worry. Furthermore, mold scares off buyers immediately. Thus, fixing leaks is non-negotiable.

3. Essential Systems

In San Francisco, functional systems are vital. Specifically, the heating must work. Also, the plumbing and electrical wiring must be safe. Otherwise, the home is considered “uninhabitable.”

4. Health Hazards (Lead Paint)

Finally, consider the age of your home. If it was built before 1978, watch out for peeling paint. Because of lead risks, FHA loans require this repair. Consequently, you must scrape and repaint chipped areas.

🎨 The “Should-Fix” List: Cosmetic Value

On the other hand, some fixes are optional. However, they boost your final price. Unlike major repairs, these are about first impressions.

Consider these simple improvements:

Paint: First, apply fresh interior paint.
Garden: Next, tidy up the landscaping.
Cleaning: Also, deep clean and declutter.
Fixtures: Finally, replace broken light bulbs or knobs.

Although these are small, they help. As a result, the appraiser sees a well-maintained home. Therefore, the value goes up.

🏦 Loan Types Matter

Importantly, the buyer’s loan dictates the rules. Different loans have different standards.

Here is a comparison:

Ideally, ask your agent about the buyer’s financing. Then, you can plan your repairs accordingly.

⚖️ Final Verdict: Fix or Sell As-Is?

So, do you need to fix repairs before an appraisal? In many cases, yes. Especially if you want the highest price.

However, there is an alternative. If you want to sell quickly, you can sell to a cash buyer. In this scenario, you sell “as-is.” Consequently, you avoid the hassle of contractors.

Ms. San Francisco Real Estate can help you decide. Whether you want to renovate or sell as-is, we have the strategy.

Contact me today. Let’s ensure you get the best result for your San Francisco home.