Quick Answer: If you want an appraiser to consider a sale, provide the address, source, sale information you can verify and a concise explanation of its relevance. Identify differences and uncertainty as well as similarities. Follow the appropriate submission process, especially for a lender assignment. A nearby sale does not require a matching value for your home.
Last updated: October 17, 2026
A homeowner may know about a sale that seems relevant because of its location, layout or condition. The useful contribution is verifiable information, rather than an instruction to reach that sale price.
This checklist explains how to organize a factual submission. It is not a promise that a particular sale will be selected or that additional information will change an appraisal.
What basic information should you include?
Supply the full address and a link or copy of the source. If a price or closing date is not verified, label it accordingly. Distinguish a completed sale from an active listing, asking price or accepted offer that has not closed.
Explain how you obtained information about interior condition or improvements. Firsthand knowledge, a listing description and an assumption are different types of evidence. Do not turn a rumor about a transaction into a stated sale fact.
How can you explain relevance clearly?
Describe the features you believe are comparable: property type, approximate location, layout or other relevant characteristics. Then identify known differences. A balanced explanation is more useful than selecting only similarities.
For a hypothetical example, a nearby renovated home may share the same basic layout but differ in condition, parking or site features. Point those differences out. The appraiser determines the relevance and any analysis needed; the owner should not prescribe an adjustment.
Why is price per square foot insufficient on its own?
A single ratio leaves out important differences among homes and transactions. Ask how area was reported and whether the properties are comparable in other respects. Avoid treating a listing's area figure as verified measurement.
A calculation can be mathematically correct and still answer the wrong question. Multiplying your home's area by the highest neighborhood ratio does not establish a supported value. Present the sale as evidence to assess, not a shortcut to a required conclusion.
Where should you submit the information?
For a private assignment, ask the appraiser about the agreed process. For a lender-ordered appraisal, ask the lender about its process for questions or additional information. Follow the applicable instructions and retain a copy of what you sent.
Keep the message specific and professional. Identify a factual concern or relevant sale without demanding a target value. A response may explain that the sale was already considered, request more information or describe why it is less relevant than other evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Must the nearest sale be selected?
Proximity alone does not establish comparability. Ask about the relevant property and market differences.
Can I send an active listing?
Label its status accurately and ask whether it is useful. An asking price is not a closed sale price.
Will additional sales guarantee a revision?
No. Their relevance and effect must be evaluated through the appropriate process.
Discuss Your Appraisal
Before ordering an Aladdin Appraisal report, explain its purpose and ask how relevant property information and later factual questions should be submitted. Contact Aladdin Appraisal.
Explore the relevant appraisal service.
Related Reading
choose the right private party offer price
Reference and Scope
CFPB explanation of comparable-property analysis in mortgage valuations; private submission suggestions here are editorial recommendations. Read the official source.
This article offers general preparation information. Confirm the scope and requirements of your assignment with the appraiser and the appropriate legal, tax, lending or property professional.
