how do i find real estate value in my town? is there a website?

Answer 1

OMG, do not use any of the above 3 answers. Zillow shows taxed value, which has NOTHING to do with market value. www.realtor.com shows active listings only, and does not show closed sales. The foreclosure site thing is just spam.

Call a loan officer and have them ask an appraiser for a "comp search" if you have no business to do with a mortgage company, call a local appraisal company and offer them 20 bux for a comp search. Im a real estate appraiser, trust me on this one, no one knows values better than the appraisers that place value on your local properties.

Answer 2

If your thinking about selling or refinancing, your best approach to estimating your homes value is a full appraisal. The appraisal cost could start at $350 (give or take), however you'll have a full report that will use comparable homes for your neighgborhood.

If you're not prepared or willing to invest for a full appraisal then I suggest getting CMA (Comparable Market Analysis) done by a knowledgeable real estate agent. When I say knowledgable, I mean someone who does business within your area and understands the market trends for your city. They will complete one at no charge, however, you'll need to be upfront with them with regards to why you are requesting a CMA. This is because an agent will provide you with a CMA if they beleive that there is some incentive for them to do so, ie. obtaining the listing.

The agent will use area comps to determine an estimated listing price. These comps will usually be recent sold comps (no more than six months; preferably less), and should be the same in style, location, and overall amenities as your home.

The agent will also use current active listings; these listings will be a good gauge to the estimated listing price for your home. Beware of any listing that's been on the market for a while; this could indicate that it's not priced correctly given the current market conditions.

The comps are generally the same information an appraiser would use to give a full appraisal, but the big difference is that the appraiser will inspect and measure your property and really go into specifice detail about your home.

Good luck,
Bill

Answer 3

I recommend using a buying agent. There is no cost, they represent your best interest, help you negotiate the price, and hand ALL the contract paper work and inspections. I can recommend a top agent in your are if you'd like from a reputable firm (Century 21).

www.getAreturn.com

Answer 4

try realtor.com

Answer 5

try www.zillow.com