Realtor Says $380k, Zillow Says Different—Who’s Right? When trying to determine how much your house is worth, conflicting valuations can leave you unsure about which to trust. Let’s explore the differences between a realtor’s assessment and Zillow’s Zestimate to help you make an informed decision.

How Zillow Estimates Your Home’s Value

Zillow uses an algorithm to calculate your home’s estimated value, known as a Zestimate. This process involves:

• Public Records: Data from tax assessments, prior sales, and local market trends.
• Comparable Properties: Recent sales of homes in your area with similar characteristics.
• Automated Models: Zillow’s algorithm adjusts the data to estimate your home’s value.

While convenient, this approach has limitations. Zillow doesn’t account for unique features like custom upgrades, local demand, or your home’s actual condition. In fact, Zillow’s own website states that Zestimates are only a starting point and can vary significantly from the true market value.

What a Realtor Brings to the Table

A professional realtor offers a personalized approach that algorithms simply can’t replicate. Here’s what sets their valuation apart:

1. On-Site Assessment: A realtor visits your home to assess its condition, layout, and features.
2. Local Expertise: They understand neighborhood trends, buyer preferences, and the nuances that affect pricing.
3. Comparable Market Analysis (CMA): Realtors use recent sales data for homes like yours, but they also adjust for unique features, upgrades, and current market demand.
4. Market Insights: Realtors factor in buyer sentiment, local inventory, and economic indicators that algorithms may overlook.

Unlike Zillow, a realtor can give you a comprehensive picture of how your home fits into the current market.

Why There’s Often a Discrepancy

Several factors can cause differences between Zillow’s estimate and your realtor’s valuation:

• Data Accuracy: Zillow relies on public records that may be outdated or incomplete.
• Market Conditions: A realtor’s valuation reflects the latest market activity, while Zillow’s data may lag behind.
• Unique Features: A realtor can recognize features that add or detract from value—things an algorithm might miss.

For example, if you’ve recently renovated your kitchen or added a new deck, these updates might not be reflected in a Zestimate but could significantly boost your home’s value in a realtor’s eyes.

When to Trust Your Realtor Over Zillow

Here are key reasons to prioritize your realtor’s valuation:

1. You’re Planning to Sell Soon: Realtors provide a realistic price based on what buyers are willing to pay right now.
2. Your Home Has Unique Features: If your property stands out in your neighborhood, a realtor is better equipped to evaluate its value.
3. Local Expertise is Key: A realtor understands hyperlocal market conditions—something a national algorithm can’t match.

When to Use Zillow’s Estimate

Zillow can be helpful for:

• Initial Research: Use it as a general guideline when you’re starting to explore your home’s potential value.
• Monitoring Trends: Keep an eye on how market fluctuations impact your Zestimate over time.

Just remember: it’s a tool, not a definitive answer.

How to Verify Your Home’s Value

To get the most accurate picture of your home’s worth, consider these steps:

1. Request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): Many realtors offer this service for free.
2. Get a Professional Appraisal: Hire a licensed appraiser to provide an unbiased valuation.
3. Compare Multiple Sources: Look at Zestimates, realtor advice, and appraisal results to see where they align.

Trust the Experts When Selling Your Home

While Zillow provides a convenient starting point, it’s no match for the personalized, detailed approach of a professional realtor. If you’re serious about selling your home, your best bet is to rely on the expertise of a trusted local agent who understands the market and your unique property.

At the end of the day, your home is one of your most valuable assets—make sure its worth is evaluated with care and precision.

For more guidance on selling your home, reach out to David Limon Home Selling Team.

Why Trust the David Limon Team for Accurate Home Valuations?

Understanding how much your house is worth requires more than an online estimate—it takes local expertise and personalized insights. Here’s why the David Limon Home Selling Team is your trusted partner:

• Expert Valuations: We combine market knowledge, on-site assessments, and data-driven insights to deliver accurate home valuations.
• Tailored Guidance: Our team ensures your property is positioned perfectly for today’s market.
• Proven Results: With years of experience in Southern California, we’ve helped countless homeowners navigate the complexities of real estate.

Get the answers you need! Contact the David Limon Home Selling Team at 951-977-4871 or use the form on this page to schedule a professional home evaluation. Let us help you feel confident in your real estate decisions.