Frequently Asked Questions About Home Values
Regular Monitoring Recommendations - Check quarterly for general awareness - Monitor monthly if considering selling - Review after major market events - Assess after completing home improvements - Track during refinancing considerations
Market Value - What buyers are willing to pay - Based on current market conditions Reflects recent comparable sales - Changes with market fluctuations - Used for pricing and selling decisions
Assessed Value - Used for property tax calculations - May not reflect current market conditions - Updated periodically by tax assessors - Often lower than market value Based on mass appraisal methods
Accuracy Factors - Quality and recency of data - Uniqueness of property features Local market conditions - Recent sales activity - Property condition considerations
Best Practices - Use multiple sources for comparison - Understand limitations and margins of error - Consider professional analysis for important decisions - Update estimates regularly - Factor in unique property characteristics
Situations Requiring Appraisals - Mortgage refinancing - Home sale transactions Estate planning and settlements - Divorce proceedings - Tax assessment appeals - Insurance claims
Market Impact Factors - Supply and demand balance - Interest rate changes - Economic conditions - Seasonal variations - Local development activity