As a Realtor in Boise, Idaho; I get this question a lot. They are accurate in a lot of ways but not in data or values in Idaho since we are a non-disclosure state. They can not be expected to be accurate if they don't get accurate data to start with.
Here is what they have for my home:
I pulled up my own house on several online "free" automated valuation programs and came up with the following answers to how much my home is worth:
- Zillow $417,082
- Ada County Tax Assessor $316,600
- Realtor.com $413,400
- City-Data $166,000
- Realtytrac $386,800
- Homes.com $443,340
- Homesnap $302,000
- Redfin $391,275
So how accurate are these online estimates for the value of my home in Boise, Idaho? Considering the difference between the lowest and the highest number is $277,340, the answer is . . . online home valuations are not accurate in Idaho!
None of these even know what condition the exterior of my home is! Most show outdated photos before the exterior of my home was painted. Some were before it was re-roofed. None of them show the solar panels that were installed last fall.
How would any of them know that I updated all my windows to extra energy efficient windows; replaced most of the main level flooring with hardwood floors; put in new flooring in the rest; repainted the interior, updated all three bathrooms (when some think it is only 1.5 bathrooms); installed granite counter tops in my kitchen and all three bathrooms; installed new appliances; etc.
This is why you need a Realtor to come to your house to see the interior condition and potential upgrades. To evaluate if it smells like cigarettes or pet odor. What condition is your neighbors house in? What are the views? If there a private back yard? Is there RV parking?
Most Realtors, like myself, will offer to do a free market evaluation of your home. Do not let them do that just based on location and price per square foot because that is like buying your clothes by the amount of fabric or buying your vehicles by the pound!
For a comprehensive free assessment of what your home is worth in Boise, Idaho and the Treasure Valley, call Jim Paulson. He is the owner/broker of Progressive Realty Corporation with 30 years of Idaho licensed real estate experience. Call him today at 208-573-0471
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