To appraise or not to appraise?

[Tim Polk]

First off, I began reading the forums here on bigger pockets based off the book recommendation by Brandon Turner "Rental Property Investing" a few weeks ago.  Fantastic resource and very excited to have found it.  All who are active, thank you!  

I will post a formal introduction when I have more time.  For now I have a question that is burning and would like to get a few opinions.  

Should I appraise now, or wait until I am done with a remodel?  Yes, details.  Let me provide some bullet-points in hopes of getting some feedback without getting to granular on this particular property. 

Goal - To remove my PMI payment and gain as much equity as possible.

Property type - Duplex

Remodel punch list - Only one of the units.  Update two bathrooms, new kitchen counter top/sink, second floor carpeting.

Current condition - Acceptable/rentable, but needs updated. 

I ask this question because I am not going to be able to do the remodel until March.  There has been a lot of duplex comps that have sold recently that would grant my property a higher value.  My concerns are that if I wait till the remodel is done the market may cool off and cost me equity vs gain.  Also, that two bathrooms and a kitchen counter top will not have as much of an impact as I am making it out to be.

I am still a rookie, so if this is a no brainier for some of you by all means just let me know..