How Black Homeowners Can Fight Appraisal Discrimination
I have to say it upfront, this one makes me mad every time I read the data. Black homeowners are still, in 2025, dealing with undervaluation when it comes to appraisals. And I am not speaking from the sidelines. I am learning, researching, and sitting right next to you, figuring out how we fight back against it.
This is not about just knowing the problem. This is about knowing how to push against it.
The Gap is Still There
Let’s get into the numbers. The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) reported in late 2023 that homes in Black neighborhoods are undervalued by about 30 percent.
The median appraised value?
Black neighborhoods: $299,572
White neighborhoods: $430,915
And that gap is not about the quality of the homes. It is about bias.
Your Appraiser Might Not See You, But You See Them
Here is the hard truth: Appraisers are overwhelmingly not representative of the communities they serve. Most are White, and systemic bias does not disappear just because someone has a license.
This is why I am learning how important it is to question, challenge, and even file complaints when things do not feel right.
You can, and should, request a reconsideration of value if you feel the appraisal is off. It is your right.
Do Not Stage for the Appraiser, Stage for the Buyer
Some folks will tell you to strip away every trace of Black culture when an appraiser visits:
Hide the family photos.
Remove the art.
Make it “neutral.
Personally? I am still working through how I feel about that. What I do know is even if you choose to stage for the appraiser, you better turn the vibe all the way up for the buyer.
Buyers connect to the atmosphere, and Black sellers deserve to lean into that power without apology. Scent matters here too. I recommend using Nocturne Whisper or Crimson Bourbon when prepping for buyer showings because that mood? It lingers.
Get a Second Appraisal if Needed
You are allowed to ask for another one. You can even switch lenders to trigger a new appraisal. This is not being difficult. It is being strategic. And yes, I am learning alongside you on how to make sure we exercise this right effectively.
Know Your Data Before They Show Up
You should know the comps (comparable sales) in your area before anyone steps foot inside your home with a clipboard.
If you do not know where to start, ask.
I am constantly reviewing market data and can help you line up your facts before you ever open the door for an appraiser.
Your Legacy is Bigger Than Their Bias
This is not just about selling your house. This is about fighting for your worth. For your family. For the next generation.
I am learning every single day how Black sellers have always had to play chess in a system set up for us to lose. But this is where we start winning.
Sherries’ Note:
I will not lie to you — appraisal discrimination is still very real. I have spent this year reading every report I can get my hands on, talking to lenders, and learning how to make sure Black sellers are not walking into this blind.
I am not here to just talk about it. I am walking through it too.
And when you need someone to both scent and sell your home with intention, you already know who to call.
Sources:
NAREB (2023)
https://www.nareb.com/site-files/uploads/2024/10/Home-Appraisals-in-Black-and-White_Final_10.21.24.pdf
FHFA Research on Appraisal Bias (optional for your later use):
https://www.fhfa.gov/Media/PublicAffairs/Pages/FHFA-Highlights-Racial-and-Ethnic-Valuation-Gaps-in-Residential-Appraisals.aspx
