Home Valuation vs. Appraisal: What’s the Difference?

Sellers and buyers often hear both terms. They are related, but they are not the same thing.

Agent valuation

An agent’s valuation, often called a comparative market analysis, looks at recent sales and current listings of similar homes nearby. It gives you an opinion of value to help you decide on a listing price. It is not a guarantee of what your home will sell for.

Appraisal

An appraisal is a formal estimate of value prepared by a licensed appraiser. Lenders usually require one when a buyer finances a purchase, so the loan amount matches the home’s supported value.

Why both matter

A well-researched valuation helps you price the home with the market in mind. If an appraisal later comes in differently, you and your agent can discuss options with the buyer.

Want to know where your home stands? Request a valuation.

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