Our instant home valuations, and other platforms, use automated valuation models that crunch public records, recent nearby sales, listing data, and basic property details to predict a price. They’re fast and consistent because they’re formula-driven. An Instant Home Valuation is a quick ballpark, not a blueprint.  It is useful for setting expectations and tracking trends but should always be verified with a professional analysis before you price, negotiate, or plan upgrades.

Online home valuation estimates are a useful starting point, but they can miss the story behind the numbers. We provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), in which we hand-select comparable properties and consider renovations, property condition, lot nuances, views and floor plan in the valuation.  We also take into account recent market patterns that are often missed by online valuation tools. For pricing that you can defend with buyers and appraisers, request an on-site CMA that reflects your home’s real market position.

An appraisal is an unbiased valuation of a home based on a professional’s opinion. They are usually what mortgage companies use for home purchases and refinances. A lender usually orders a home appraisal and 
most appraisals average $500 in Massachusetts, but may vary, and is usually paid for by the buyer. An appraiser does a complete visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the home as well as taking into consideration recent sales of similar properties and market trends. The appraiser then compiles a detailed report on the home, including an exterior building sketch, a street map showing the home and any comparable sales, photos of the home and street, an explanation of how the square footage was calculated, and any other relevant information.