Getting the information from the MLS is the only reliable way to do so.  You can go to the courthouse and pull sales records, which should be public record, but that will be very time consuming.

Services like Housevalues sell those inquiries to agents.

Zillow is nortoriously off in a lot of areas, sometimes high and sometimes low so it's hard to rely on that information.

Turn it over to a pro.

Renae, I think the best way is to ask a good agent.

She needs a local agent who really knows her area.  Online services like house values just sell the lead to whoever paid for the zip code - not necessarily an expert in the neighborhood.  Did she consider contacting the agent who sold her the home?  I would gladly provide that service to my past clients.

I agree with most of comments here.  The best bet is utilizing a local agent who is experienced in the local area. People that have heard of zillow and seems to navigate to get this information but from experience, I know can be very "off".

They've owned their house for 15 years and the original agent is no longer in the area.

Another question is this:  would an agent be interested in providing this service for a mortgage refinance?  I mean, you aren't getting anything out of it except good will.

Your thoughts?

~Renae

Renae, I do this all the time through Homegain, LOL!  Seriously, I would do it for someone because I could then add them to my database and contact list, in the hopes that they will send me referrals in the future.  What goes around come around!

First American Title has really accurate comps on line.  The loan officer should be able to get access to their website if they don't have it already.  Very easy to use and a great source of information such as neighbors information, demographics, schools etc.  And I believe they are nation wide.  I always combine this with the MLS.

Hi Renae, People call me for refi comps all of the time.  Mostly they are people I know or past clients.  I gladly give it to them.  If it is a stranger, I just make conversation with them and then add them to my database hoping to do future business with that person.

Thank you to everyone who posted here!  I appreciate it and I'm passing this on to my friend.

You guys rock!

~Renae