So, you’re thinking about selling your house and wondering what it’s worth? You’re not alone. One of the first questions most homeowners ask is: Should I get a quick online valuation or book an in-person visit from an estate agent?
Both have their place, and the answer really depends on where you are in your selling journey. Let’s break down the differences so you can make the right choice for you.
Related: Rateable value of my home: what sellers need to know
What is an online valuation?
An online valuation is exactly what it sounds like – a quick estimate of your property’s value that you can get in minutes without leaving your sofa. You simply enter your postcode, add a few basic details like the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the system crunches the numbers to give you a ballpark figure.
These tools use automated valuation models that look at recent sales data in your area, property characteristics, and local market trends. It’s like having a property calculator at your fingertips, available any time of day or night.
The appeal? Speed and convenience. If you’re just starting to think about moving and want a rough idea of where you stand financially, an online valuation gives you that instant answer without any commitment.
Related: Guide price: What does it mean and how it affects your sale
What happens during an in-person estate agent valuation?
An in-person valuation takes things a step further. A local estate agent will visit your home, walk through each room, and assess your property with their own eyes. They’re looking at the condition of your property, any improvements you’ve made, the layout, natural light, and all those little details that make your home unique.
But here’s what makes the difference – they’re bringing their knowledge of the local market with them. They know what buyers in your area are looking for right now, what similar properties have sold for recently, and how quickly homes like yours are moving. That kind of insight simply can’t be replicated by an algorithm.
Most estate agents offer free valuations with no obligation to sell, making it a risk-free way to get professional advice tailored to your specific property.
Related: The importance of a precise valuation
How accurate are online valuations?
Online valuations are useful starting points, but they come with limitations. These tools can only work with the data they have access to, which typically includes:
- Recent sale prices of similar properties nearby
- Basic property information from public records
- General market trends in your area
What they can’t account for are the things that really set your home apart. That new kitchen you installed last year? The loft conversion that added an extra bedroom? The south-facing garden that gets sun all day? An algorithm won’t pick up on these value-boosting features unless they’re recorded in official property records, which often isn’t the case.
The condition of your property also makes a significant difference. Two identical houses on the same street could be worth vastly different amounts depending on how well they’ve been maintained and updated.
Related: How to set the right asking price for your property
Why choose an in-person estate agent valuation?
Getting your house valued by an estate agent brings several advantages. First, you’re getting a professional opinion from someone who values properties for a living. They understand the nuances of your local market and can spot the features that buyers are actively searching for.
Local estate agents also have access to more detailed market data, including properties that are currently under offer or have sold subject to contract – information that isn’t always publicly available yet but gives a much clearer picture of the current market.
Perhaps most importantly, they can give you honest advice about your property’s saleability. They might suggest small improvements that could boost your asking price or recommend the best time to list based on seasonal trends in your area.
Can you use both?
Absolutely, and many homeowners do exactly that. Starting with a free online valuation gives you a rough idea of your property’s worth before you’ve even picked up the phone. It’s a helpful first step that can inform your decisions about whether now is the right time to sell.
Then, when you’re ready to take things more seriously, booking an in-person valuation with local estate agents gives you the accurate, detailed assessment you need to list your property. Think of the online valuation as your quick estimate, and the in-person visit as your proper appraisal.
Related: How to make your home stand out
Estate agent valuation cost – what’s the catch?
You might be wondering why estate agents offer free valuations. There’s no hidden catch – it’s simply their way of demonstrating their expertise and building a relationship with potential sellers. They’re confident that once you see their knowledge of the local market and hear their marketing plan, you’ll want to work with them when you’re ready to sell.
The key phrase is “no obligation”. You’re free to get multiple valuations from different agents and compare their approaches without committing to anything.
Beware of estate agent over valuation
One thing to watch out for is over-valuation. An overpriced property tends to sit on the market longer, eventually requiring price reductions that can put off buyers.
The best agents will give you an honest, realistic valuation based on solid evidence from recent sales, even if it’s not quite as high as you’d hoped. This honesty serves you better in the long run.
Which one should you choose?
If you’re just curious about your property’s value or in the very early stages of thinking about moving, start with an online valuation. It’s quick, easy, and gives you a useful benchmark.
But if you’re seriously considering selling within the next few months, or if your property has unique features or recent improvements, book an in-person valuation. The accuracy and personalised advice you’ll receive is worth far more than the time it takes.
The truth is, for most homeowners preparing to sell, both valuations play a valuable role. Use the online tool as your starting point, then follow up with a proper estate agent valuation to get the full picture. That way, you’ll have both the convenience of instant information and the accuracy of professional insight.
Ready to find out what your home is worth? Contact your local Ellis & Co branch today to book your free, no-obligation valuation with one of our experienced local agents who know your area inside out.
