We are about to get our house appraised in a week or two. We had some flooding problem in the past before we put in the second sump pump. Since we had the new sump pump, we did have some flooding because the sump pump went out. There is still some evidence of the flooding on the baseboards because I have not painted it because it was a room visitors don't see.

In your opinion, should I paint it, which the appraisor I am assuming will notice it's been freshly painted or smell the paint, or should I leave it like it is and explain it to the appraisor.

Any tips will be appreciated.

I think it depends on why you are having the house appraised. If it's to determine a sell price you want a high value so I would advise repainting so the house presents itself well. If it's an appraisal for setting tax rates you want a low value so leave the basement as is.

I know many appraisers. Generally speaking:
1. Fresh paint will not detract from the appraisal, but
2. Evidence of a problem WILL detract from the appraisal.

So in my opinion, you should prime and paint the damaged areas. But also be sure to answer the questions honestly about recent repairs and flooding problems.

Paint it, fix any other small issues, have the house nice and clean.