Listing Appraisals
Why it matters
A powerful tool for selling a property.
WesTech’s independent listing appraisals are a powerful tool for selling a property. When listing a home, a professional appraisal will help you choose a price that is viable for the current market and will also ensure that you have accurate figures for listing information such as home size, gross living area (GLA), etc.
An appraisal will also improve your negotiating power by giving you a deeper understanding of the market. Some viable properties that are outside the typical market area for your CMA (competitive market analysis) may not have been originally considered. The appraisal will identify additional comparable properties, detail why they were chosen, and explain how they substantiate the appraiser’s opinion of value.
In addition, including a copy of the appraisal report in your marketing material shows potential buyers and their realtors that a professional appraiser has reviewed the property and has provided an impartial value estimate for the home.
Before the day of the appraisal
What to have ready
Not every item applies to every file. What's needed depends on the scope of the appraisal, and the more you can provide, the more complete the report will be.
The appraisal process
How does an independent appraisal differ from a real estate agent's market evaluation?
An agent's market evaluation is typically prepared as part of a listing presentation to secure a client contract and is not an independent third-party opinion. A CUSPAP-compliant appraisal provides a formal, fully documented, and signed opinion of value that third parties such as lenders, legal counsel, or the CRA can legally and professionally rely on.
Will the appraisal report dictate my exact listing price?
No. The appraisal establishes the objective market value based on verified comparable sales. Listing strategy, whether you and your agent choose to price slightly above, at, or below that figure to drive market interest, is entirely your decision, but it ensures your strategy starts from a defensible, evidence-based baseline.
How long is the market value conclusion considered valid?
The appraisal value is strictly tied to its effective date. Because real estate markets fluctuate, most financial institutions and intended users treat an appraisal report as current for a standard window of up to ninety days, provided market conditions remain stable.
Can a prospective buyer or their lender use my pre-listing appraisal report?
Generally no. Under CUSPAP guidelines, an appraisal report is prepared exclusively for the named client and authorized intended user for a specific purpose. Lenders almost universally require an appraisal ordered directly through their own channels, though your pre-listing report remains an invaluable tool for your own pricing, marketing, and negotiation strategy.
Related services
Other appraisal services.
Thinking about listing?
Send us the property address. We will follow up promptly with a flat-fee quote and our first available appraisal time.