Published April 15, 2020
What is a home evaluation?
A home evaluation— also known as a CMA or “Comparative
Market Analysis” — is a report prepared by a real estate agent providing data
comparing your property to similar properties in the marketplace.
The first thing an agent will need to do to provide you with
a home evaluation is to gather a little information on your property.
Generally, the agent will ask you questions about the square footage of your
home, if you’ve done any renovations, is your basement finished, and so on. If
you plan to make changes before selling, inform the agent at this time.
The next step is for the agent to obtain data on comparable
properties. This data is usually available through the MLS® (Multiple Listing
Service) System, but a qualified agent will also know of properties that are on
the market or have sold without being part of the MLS® System. This will give
the agent an idea how much your property is worth in the current market. Please
note that the home evaluation is not an appraisal. Appraisals are typically
performed for the purpose of financing, and can represent quite an expense.
Appraisals must be performed by a licensed appraiser.
The home evaluation process takes place before your home is listed for sale and is a good assessment of what your house could potentially sell for.
