Glossary Metrics & appraisal
Appraisal Subject to Completion
An appraisal made subject to completion values a property as though planned repairs, alterations, or construction described in plans and specifications have already been finished, rather than valuing the property in its current, unfinished condition.
Renovation and new-construction lending needs a way to value a property that is not yet in its final state. Subject to completion is the appraisal mechanism for that: the appraiser values the property as complete, based on plans and specifications, with funding tied to a later inspection confirming the work actually happened.
What it means
The appraiser inspects the property in its current condition and reviews the plans and specifications for the work to be done, then reports a value as though that work is finished. The report is explicitly conditioned on completion.
The final inspection
Before the loan proceeds fund fully or the value is relied on without qualification, a final inspection confirms the described work was actually completed according to the plans and specifications the original appraisal assumed.
How it differs from an as-is appraisal
An as-is appraisal values the property exactly as it stands on the inspection date, with no assumption about future work. See as-is vs. ARV appraisal for how lenders choose between the two.
Where it is used
This appears in new construction lending and in renovation financing where a portion of the loan is tied to work not yet complete at closing — the appraised value supports the loan amount before the work is finished, subject to that later verification.
What it does not do
It does not guarantee the work will be completed to the assumed standard, and it does not substitute for a lender’s own draw inspections during a renovation project. It is a valuation mechanism, not a construction-quality guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
What does "subject to completion per plans and specifications" mean?
It means the appraiser valued the property as though described repairs or construction were finished, based on plans rather than a finished inspection, with a later inspection required to confirm the work was actually done.
Is a subject-to-completion appraisal the same as an as-is appraisal?
No. An as-is appraisal values current condition only. A subject-to-completion appraisal values the property as though planned work is already finished.
Who confirms the work was actually completed?
A final inspection, typically ordered by the lender, verifies the work matches what the original appraisal assumed before funds are released without qualification.
Is this the same as an ARV appraisal?
They are related concepts. See our as-is vs. ARV appraisal page for how after-repair value and subject-to-completion appraisals relate.
Does this apply to new construction?
Yes. It is a standard mechanism for valuing a home based on plans and specifications before construction is finished.