Last Updated: January 2026

If you're buying or refinancing a home, one of the most common questions is: how long does a home appraisal take? The answer depends on whether you're asking about the actual on-site inspection or the entire appraisal process from start to finish.

The on-site home appraisal inspection typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the property's size, condition, and complexity. However, the complete appraisal timeline, from scheduling the appointment to receiving the final appraisal report, usually takes 7 to 14 business days. Understanding this timeline is crucial for home buyers planning their closing date and sellers preparing for the inspection.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down exactly how long each step of the appraisal process takes, what factors affect the timeline, and how you can help speed things up. Whether you're working with a conventional loan, FHA loan, or VA loan, knowing what to expect from the property appraisal helps ensure a smooth transaction.

Home Appraisal Timeline Overview

The home appraisal process involves several steps, each with its own timeline. Here's a breakdown of how long the typical appraisal takes from start to finish:

Stage	Typical Timeline
Lender orders appraisal	1-3 business days
Scheduling the inspection	2-5 business days
On-site inspection	30 minutes - 2 hours
Report preparation	3-7 business days
Lender review	1-3 business days
Total process	7-14 business days

Keep in mind that these are average timelines. During busy real estate markets or in areas with appraiser shortages, the process may take longer. Working with an experienced real estate agent can help coordinate the process and keep things moving.

How Long Does the On-Site Appraisal Inspection Take?

The actual time an appraiser spends at the property varies based on several factors:

Standard Single-Family Home: 30-45 Minutes

For a typical single-family home under 2,500 square feet, expect the licensed appraiser to spend about 30-45 minutes on-site. During this time, the appraiser will:

• Measure the home's square footage and room dimensions
• Take photographs of the exterior, interior, and any notable features
• Assess the property's overall condition and quality
• Note any upgrades, renovations, or deferred maintenance
• Evaluate the lot size, landscaping, and neighborhood
• Document the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces

Larger or Complex Properties: 1-2+ Hours

The appraisal inspection takes longer for:

• Large homes (3,000+ square feet): 1-2 hours
• Multi-unit properties: 1-3 hours depending on units
• Luxury homes with unique features: 1-2+ hours
• Properties with extensive acreage: 1-2+ hours
• Homes with accessory dwelling units (ADUs): Additional time for separate structures
• Historic properties: Extra documentation required

What Affects How Long the Appraisal Process Takes?

Several factors can speed up or delay your home appraisal timeline:

Appraiser Availability

The biggest factor affecting appraisal timing is appraiser availability. In hot real estate markets or during peak buying seasons (spring and summer), licensed appraisers may be booked out for days or even weeks. Rural areas with fewer appraisers may also experience longer wait times.

Property Type and Complexity

Unique or complex properties require more time to appraise:

• Standard single-family homes: Quickest turnaround
• Condominiums: May require additional HOA documentation
• Multi-family properties: Require income analysis
• New construction: May need multiple inspections
• Unique properties: Fewer comparable sales to analyze

Loan Type Requirements

The type of mortgage affects appraisal requirements:

• Conventional loans: Standard appraisal timeline
• FHA loans: Additional health and safety requirements may extend the process
• VA loans: Require VA-approved appraisers, which may limit availability
• USDA loans: Similar requirements to FHA
• Jumbo loans: May require two appraisals

Comparable Sales Availability

Appraisers determine market value by analyzing recent comparable sales (comps) in the area. If few similar homes have sold recently, the appraiser needs more time to research and justify their value conclusion.

How Long Does an FHA Appraisal Take?

An FHA appraisal follows the same general timeline as conventional appraisals, typically 7 to 14 business days. However, FHA appraisals include additional minimum property requirements (MPRs) that can affect timing:

FHA Minimum Property Requirements

FHA appraisers must verify the property meets health and safety standards, including:

• Working heating, plumbing, and electrical systems
• Safe and sound roof with at least 2-3 years remaining life
• No peeling paint in homes built before 1978 (lead paint concern)
• Functional water heater
• Working smoke detectors
• Safe stairways with handrails
• No significant health or safety hazards

If the property doesn't meet FHA requirements, repairs must be completed before the appraisal can be finalized. This can add days or weeks to the timeline depending on the repairs needed.

How Long Does a VA Appraisal Take?

VA loan appraisals typically take 10 to 14 business days, sometimes longer. The main factor affecting VA appraisal timing is that only VA-assigned appraisers can perform the inspection. In areas with few VA appraisers, wait times can extend significantly.

Like FHA appraisals, VA appraisals include Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) to ensure the home is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary. If issues are found, repairs are required before final approval.

How Long Does It Take to Get the Appraisal Report?

After the on-site inspection, the appraiser returns to their office to complete the appraisal report. This report preparation typically takes 3 to 7 business days.

What's Included in the Appraisal Report

The comprehensive appraisal report includes:

• Property description: Address, legal description, and property characteristics
• Neighborhood analysis: Market trends, location factors, and area description
• Site description: Lot size, topography, utilities, and improvements
• Improvement analysis: Age, condition, quality, and design of the home
• Comparable sales analysis: Recent similar sales used to determine value
• Market value conclusion: The appraiser's professional opinion of value
• Photos and sketches: Documentation of the property and floor plan

Rush Appraisals

If you're in a time crunch, you can request a rush appraisal. Rush orders can deliver reports in 24-48 hours after the inspection, but expect to pay an additional fee of $100-$200 or more. Not all appraisers offer rush services, and availability depends on their workload.

How to Speed Up the Home Appraisal Process

While you can't control everything, these tips can help expedite your appraisal process:

For Home Buyers

• Get pre-approved early: Start the mortgage process before making offers
• Choose a responsive lender: Some lenders have faster appraisal ordering processes
• Work with an experienced agent: Local agents who know efficient appraisers can help coordinate
• Be flexible with scheduling: The more availability you offer, the sooner the inspection can happen
• Consider appraisal waivers: Some conventional loans with strong equity positions may qualify for appraisal waivers

For Home Sellers

• Prepare the home: Clean and declutter before the inspection
• Ensure access: Make sure all areas are unlocked and accessible
• Have utilities on: Appraisers need to test systems
• Complete repairs: Fix obvious issues before the appraisal
• Prepare documentation: Have permits for renovations and a list of upgrades ready
• Be available: Respond quickly to scheduling requests

Documentation to Have Ready

Provide the appraiser with helpful information:

• List of recent improvements with costs and dates
• Permits for any additions or major renovations
• Survey or plat map if available
• HOA information for condos and townhomes
• Recent comparable sales you're aware of
• Seller's disclosure statement

What Happens After the Appraisal?

Once the appraiser completes the report, here's what happens next:

Appraisal Meets or Exceeds Purchase Price

If the appraised value equals or exceeds the purchase price, congratulations! The mortgage process moves forward. The lender has confirmation that the property supports the loan amount, protecting their investment.

Low Appraisal Scenarios

If the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price, you have several options:

• Negotiate with the seller: Ask the seller to reduce the price to match the appraised value
• Make up the difference: Pay cash for the gap between appraised value and purchase price
• Challenge the appraisal: Provide additional comps or correct errors through a reconsideration of value (ROV)
• Get a second appraisal: Some lenders allow a second opinion
• Walk away: If you have an appraisal contingency, you may be able to cancel the contract

Desktop and Hybrid Appraisals: Faster Alternatives

In some cases, lenders may accept alternative appraisal types that are faster than traditional appraisals:

Desktop Appraisals

A desktop appraisal is completed entirely from the appraiser's office using public records, MLS data, and previous appraisal information. These can be completed in 2-4 business days but aren't accepted for all loan types or situations.

Hybrid Appraisals

Hybrid appraisals combine a third-party property inspection with appraiser analysis. A trained inspector visits the property and collects data, then the appraiser completes the valuation remotely. This can reduce the timeline to 5-7 business days.

Appraisal Waivers

Some conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac may qualify for appraisal waivers, eliminating the appraisal requirement entirely. Eligibility depends on the loan-to-value ratio, property type, and other factors.

Appraisal Costs and Who Pays

Understanding appraisal fees is part of planning your home purchase:

Appraisal Type	Typical Cost
Single-family home	$300-$500
FHA appraisal	$400-$600
VA appraisal	$400-$600
Multi-family property	$500-$1,000+
Rush appraisal fee	Add $100-$200
Complex property	$600-$1,500+

The buyer typically pays for the appraisal as part of their closing costs. In some cases, sellers may offer to cover appraisal fees as a concession, but this is negotiable.

Common Appraisal Timeline Delays

Be aware of these common issues that can extend your appraisal timeline:

• Appraiser shortage: Limited licensed appraisers in your area
• Peak season demand: Spring and summer bring more appraisal requests
• Property access issues: Scheduling conflicts or locked areas
• Missing comparable sales: Unique properties require more research
• Required repairs: FHA or VA properties needing fixes before approval
• Complex properties: Multi-family, large estates, or unusual features
• Lender review delays: Backlogs in the underwriting department

Working with Your Real Estate Agent on Appraisals

Your real estate agent plays a crucial role in the appraisal process:

• Coordinating access: Arranging the inspection appointment
• Preparing documentation: Providing comparable sales and property details to the appraiser
• Advising on pricing: Helping ensure the offer price is supportable by comps
• Handling low appraisals: Negotiating with the other party if value comes in short
• Challenging results: Preparing reconsideration of value requests when warranted

An experienced local real estate agent understands the appraisal process and can help ensure everything goes smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a home appraisal take from start to finish?

The complete home appraisal process typically takes 7 to 14 business days from when the lender orders it to when the final report is delivered. The on-site inspection itself takes 30 minutes to 2 hours.

How long is a home appraisal good for?

Most appraisals are valid for 90 to 180 days depending on the lender and loan type. FHA appraisals are valid for 180 days and stay with the property. If your appraisal expires before closing, you may need a new one or an appraisal update.

Can I be present during the home appraisal?

Buyers typically don't attend the appraisal, it's not necessary and may be awkward for the seller. The seller or listing agent usually provides access. However, there's no rule preventing you from attending; check with your agent first.

How long does a refinance appraisal take?

Refinance appraisals follow similar timelines to purchase appraisals: 7 to 14 business days total. Since there's no purchase transaction deadline, refinance appraisals may sometimes take slightly longer due to lower urgency.

What happens if the appraisal takes too long?

If appraisal delays threaten your closing date, communicate with all parties. You may need to request a closing extension. Your real estate agent and lender can help coordinate and push for faster turnaround if possible.

The Bottom Line

Understanding how long a home appraisal takes helps you plan your home purchase timeline realistically. While the on-site inspection is relatively quick (30 minutes to 2 hours), the full process from ordering to receiving the report typically takes 7 to 14 business days.

The best way to ensure a smooth appraisal is to work with an experienced real estate agent who can coordinate access, prepare helpful documentation, and navigate any challenges that arise. If the appraisal comes in low or takes longer than expected, having a knowledgeable professional in your corner makes all the difference.