ACCURATE VALUATIONS AND HOW TO ENSURE YOU GET THE RIGHT PRICE

When selling your property, pricing is crucial. No matter your home’s location, type, or condition, an incorrect price could leave you financially disadvantaged or unable to move forward with your plans.

While property valuations are essential for a successful sale, they are not an exact science. You may have noticed similar properties on the same street selling at significantly different price points.

Similar to perfecting a recipe, an accurate valuation requires carefully balancing several key ingredients for optimal results, including:

• Capturing potential buyers’ attention from the start.
• Securing the most advantageous price possible.
• Meeting the surveyor’s assessment criteria.
• Aligning with your preferred moving timeline.
• Helping you secure your next property.

When any one of these elements falls short, it can create tension with your estate agent if your move appears to be at risk.

Our success and reputation depend entirely on selling your home effectively, both in terms of price achieved and timeframe. This week’s blog explores our approach to getting those valuations right.

YOUR VALUATION APPOINTMENT

Our valuation visits cover considerable ground, and as professional estate agents, we prioritise listening to fully understand your home’s story.

We begin by discussing your plans over a cup of tea or coffee (if offered!), building a comprehensive picture of your desired move and timeline.

You then guide us through your property, highlighting your favourite features, any improvements you’ve made, and potential selling points.

Finally, we sit down to discuss current market conditions, buyer activity, recent comparable sales, similar properties currently available, our services, and have an open conversation about pricing.

By the time we leave, you should feel thoroughly heard and confident that our advice aligns perfectly with your moving goals.

PROPERTY COMPARISONS

While your home has its unique character, looking at how similar nearby properties perform helps establish an appropriate asking price.

Potential buyers view comparable properties daily, and surveyors must provide solid evidence to mortgage lenders. Our valuation considers multiple factors, including:

• Assessing the location, layout, condition, and distinctive qualities of similar properties we’re currently marketing or have recently sold.
• Reviewing property portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla to evaluate other available properties and those under offer, providing a comprehensive market overview.
• Analysing how long properties have been marketed, how quickly offers were secured, and whether any required price adjustments or remained unsold.

This research explains why agents can often suggest a price during their initial visit and helps show whether valuations are accurate, conservative, or too ambitious.

BEYOND SQUARE FOOTAGE

Surveyors have traditionally used price-per-square-foot calculations to advise lenders on whether agreed prices are appropriate, and today’s buyers are increasingly aware of local property values.

However, not every property commands identical square footage rates. Some considerations we take into account include:

• Smaller properties often achieve higher per-square-foot values because high-value areas like kitchens and bathrooms represent a larger proportion of the overall space.
• Square footage calculations do not account for exceptional views, specific locations, interior design quality, natural light, double-height spaces, or room configurations.
• Areas with ceiling heights below 5 feet typically command lower per-square-foot values, meaning two neighbouring loft conversions could have substantially different valuations.

While square footage pricing provides valuable guidance when formulating asking prices and negotiating improved offers, each property’s individual characteristics remain equally significant.

TIMING YOUR SALE PERFECTLY

Beyond your property’s size, location, and features, current market conditions inevitably influence the offers received and your final selling price.

In strong market conditions, ambitious asking prices can succeed, but buyers become significantly more price-sensitive during slower periods. Our approach balances factors such as:

• Practical considerations including interest rates, lending criteria, inflation, living costs, and employment security that all affect affordability.
• Market sentiment and confidence; media predictions of market downturns occur even during boom periods, and our guidance reflects how strongly these narratives resonate locally.
• Supply and demand dynamics; even during market slowdowns, prices can remain surprisingly stable when property inventory is limited.
• The market’s unpredictable nature; when COVID-19 emerged with lockdowns and economic concerns, property demand unexpectedly surged.

MAXIMISING YOUR PROPERTY’S VALUE

Skilled estate agents look beyond what is immediately visible to identify opportunities for maximising your property’s value.

Several proven strategies can potentially increase your final selling price by thousands of pounds:

• Decluttering, refreshing décor, repurposing unused rooms, and incorporating thoughtful seasonal styling elements.
• Obtaining planning permission and developing architectural plans if your property has expansion potential.
• Revealing hidden features like trimming vegetation to expose views, restoring covered fireplaces, and rearranging furniture to enhance space perception and visual flow.

These enhancements significantly improve your property’s photography and descriptions while also providing talking points during viewings to help potential buyers envision their future in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a property valuation typically take?

A thorough property valuation usually takes between 45-60 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of your home. We believe in taking the time to properly assess your property’s unique features and discuss your moving goals without rushing the process.

Is there a fee for Hamish Homes to value my property?

No, our property valuations are completely free with no obligation. We only charge when we successfully sell your property, with no upfront fees or hidden costs. We’ll even pay for your home report upfront, so you do not pay us until your sale completes.

How quickly can you arrange a valuation?

We understand that timing can be important when you are considering selling. In most cases, we can arrange a valuation within 24-48 hours of your request, including evenings and weekends to fit around your schedule.

What should I prepare before my valuation appointment?

While no special preparation is necessary, having information about any major improvements you’ve made to the property, details of any planning permissions, and an idea of your moving timeframe can be helpful. Do not worry about tidying up extensively – we are there to value your home, not judge your housekeeping!

How do you handle unique or unusual properties that do not have many comparable sales?

For unique properties, we take a more holistic approach. While we will still consider any comparable properties, we will place greater emphasis on your home’s individual characteristics, the specific amenities it offers, and current market conditions. Our extensive experience in the Highlands market allows us to accurately value even the most distinctive properties.

Are you considering selling soon?

We would be delighted to support you in achieving the best possible price in the current market, enabling you to begin your next chapter.

Call us on 01463250000 or email askhamish@hamish-homes.co.uk to discuss your plans and set your move in motion!

YOUR JOURNEY TO THE PERFECT VALUATION STARTS HERE

An accurate valuation combines market knowledge, property details, and timing to create the foundation for a successful sale. By understanding the factors that influence your property’s value, including location, condition, market trends, and buyer demand, you are equipped to make confident decisions about your next move. The right valuation approach not only attracts serious buyers but also helps you achieve the best possible outcome for your property journey.