For a home appraisal in Delaware County, the relevant records help the appraiser describe the property and understand the assignment. Ask which documents are needed before sending sensitive information.
Quick answer
For a typical purchase, refinance, or divorce appraisal in Delaware County, PA, the owner should prepare:
Access info and basic property dataA detailed list of improvementsRecent tax and HOA infoRelevant legal/financial documents (purchase contract, divorce decree, etc., when applicable)Core property documents
Have copies (paper or digital) ready for the appraiser:
Deed or latest property record showing owner name and parcel ID/folio number, which ties into county assessment and any appeal.Most recent property tax bill or assessment notice from Delaware County Board of Assessment.Recent mortgage statement if there are multiple properties or if the lender asks for it as part of the loan file.Survey or plot plan if available, especially if lot lines, easements, or encroachments are an issue.Improvements, permits, and condition
This is often the most important packet you can provide:
Written list of all major home improvements and repairs (kitchen/bath remodels, additions, roof, HVAC, windows, finished basement, etc.) with dates and brief descriptions.Receipts, invoices, or contracts for larger upgrades to help the appraiser understand quality and cost.Copies of available building permits and approvals for additions, finished basements, decks or other significant work.Any home warranty information, especially on big‑ticket systems (roof, HVAC, solar).For purchase or refinance appraisals
If the appraisal is tied to a loan, the lender’s file will include your financial docs, but the appraiser may need these property‑specific items:
Executed Agreement of Sale / Purchase Contract, including addenda, to see the contract price and concessions.Copy of any prior appraisal done recently (for example, from an earlier refinance or estate settlement) if you want the appraiser aware of it.Homeowners insurance policy or quote, homeowners association (HOA) covenants, rules, and current fee amount, if the property is in a condo/HOA community.For divorce, estate, or tax appeal appraisals in Delaware County
For a divorce, estate or assessment matter, share the requested valuation date and relevant instructions:
Divorce decree or court order stating the purpose and effective date of value, so the appraiser can match the correct valuation date.Estate documents (letters testamentary, trust documents) showing who can authorize the appraisal, if applicable.For a Delaware County tax assessment appeal: the county appeal form, letter from the Board of Assessment, and any supporting data you want considered (photos, prior appraisals, market data).Helpful “extra” information
These are optional but can help the appraiser support value:
Recent comparable sales you know about in your neighborhood (addresses and sale prices).Info on neighborhood amenities important to value (nearby schools, walkability, special community features).For tenant-occupied or income-producing property, ask which leases, rent records and income/expense statements are needed.What the appraiser doesn’t usually need from you
Confirm whether any personal financial documents are relevant before sharing them with the appraiser.A home inspection report or repair record can supply context about significant condition issues; ask whether it is useful for the assignment.