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Online real estate appraisal vs. in-person property valuation: advantages and disadvantages

19 January, 2025 | Par Lorenzo Poli

In an ever-evolving real estate market, obtaining an accurate property valuation is essential, whether you’re selling, buying, or simply assessing your assets. Thanks to technological advancements, real estate appraisal methods are becoming more diverse, allowing property owners to choose between an online valuation and an in-person appraisal. While online tools may seem convenient, a in-person real estate appraisal conducted by a professional remains the most reliable way to ensure a precise and trustworthy property valuation.

The real estate market is a complex sector where every detail can influence the value of a property. Whether you’re an owner, a buyer or simply curious about the value of your property, choosing the right valuation method for your needs is essential. Did you know that there are over 10 different valuation methods? Online appraisal tools are based on just one of them: the hedonic value. This article highlights the reasons why an in-person valuation is generally the best option for obtaining an accurate and reliable appraisal of a property.

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1. The limitations of online property valuation

1.1 Fast and convenient

Online property valuations are particularly quick. In just a few clicks, you can get an initial assessment of your property’s value without having to go out of your way. However, this simplicity has its limits. Online tools, while effective for quick estimates, can lack precision and don’t always take into account the specific features of each property. They are based on algorithms and standardized data, which can make them less accurate than a valuation carried out by a professional on site.

1.2 Online property valuation: the impact of emotional subjectivity

The accuracy of an online appraisal can be influenced by the seller’s subjectivity. For example, a homeowner might value a kitchen he renovated himself 15 years ago, without taking into account current standards and tastes. Unlike an expert, who evaluates without emotional attachment and according to market trends, the seller could overestimate the value of his property. As a result, the information entered by the seller in online tools can lead to biased estimates.

2. The advantages of in-person real estate valuations

2.1 Precision et reliability

In-person valuations, carried out by a real estate professional, offer unrivalled accuracy and reliability. A real estate agent visits the property to evaluate it in its totality, taking into account factors that online tools cannot detect. This in-depth appraisal provides a more accurate valuation of the property, taking into account factors such as the condition of the building, recent renovations and the specific characteristics of the neighborhood.

2.2 Expertise and personalised advice

Choosing a professional for a in-person property valuation means benefiting from their expertise and personalised advice. The real estate agent can answer your specific questions, advise you on potential improvements to increase the value of your property, and provide you with a detailed analysis of the local market. This human, personalized dimension is a major asset for those seeking a comprehensive, tailor-made valuation, well away from the approximations of online tools.

2.3 The importance of details in real estate appraisals

A in-person appraisal allows you to take into account specific details of the property that are often overlooked by online tools. The general condition of the building, the quality of materials, interior finishes, brightness and other subjective aspects all influence the value of a property. An expert on site can assess these elements with precision, ensuring a more accurate and representative estimate. What’s more, the real estate agent can detect aspects and subtleties that would not be taken into consideration in an online estimate.

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3. Why opt for in-person valuations?

For those who are ready to sell their property, a in-person real estate appraisal is the best option. The precision and expertise offered by a real estate valuation specialist guarantee a faithful assessment of market reality. This method is also recommended for atypical or high-end properties. For example, the “amateur” value of an atypical property could be taken into account instead of the intrinsic value. By opting for a in-person valuation, you benefit from the support of an expert who will guide you every step of the way.

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4. Conclusion

In summary, online property valuation can offer a quick and accessible first approach to the worth of your property, but is often limited by its accuracy and its ability to incorporate qualitative elements. In-person appraisals, carried out by a professional, remain the most reliable and accurate method for assessing the true value of your property. At Poli Real Estate, we are convinced that the support of a professional is essential to obtain a fair and detailed property valuation. We are here to support you every step of the way, offering services tailored to your needs and expectations, to ensure that you have the best possible information with which to make your real estate decisions.

At Poli Real Estate, we give priority to on-site property valuations. With over 30 years’ experience, we offer a meticulous and personalized process, based on an in-depth analysis of every aspect of your property. Our team visits your property to assess its unique features, taking into account its environment and local market trends. More than 700 satisfied customers have entrusted us with an accurate and informed appraisal, tailored to the specific characteristics of Lausanne, Pully and Lutry. Entrust us with your property, and reveal its full potential on the real estate market.

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