Online Home Valuations vs. In-Person Expert Visits: Which Actually Gets It Right?

When you start thinking about selling, the first question always hits: What’s my home worth?

Sure, you can punch your address into an online valuation tool and get a number in seconds. But let’s be real—algorithms don’t walk through your front door. They don’t smell fresh paint, see the new kitchen, or notice the neighbor’s overgrown lawn that hurts curb appeal.

Here’s the truth about both options.

Online Valuations: The Quick Fix

✅ Fast and free—great for curiosity.

✅ Easy first step to get a rough idea.

❌ But it’s blind data. It can’t see upgrades, layout, or condition.

❌ Zero context—no clue about what makes your home stand out (or not).

In-Person Expert Valuation: The Real Deal

✅ You get accuracy, not guesses.

✅ A local expert knows your neighborhood, buyer demand, and pricing sweet spot.

✅ You’ll get more than a number—you’ll get strategy. Timing, staging, positioning.

❌ Takes a bit more effort—but the return is worth every minute.

Bottom Line:

Online tools are fine for a ballpark figure. But if you actually want to sell—fast and for top dollar—skip the algorithm and call a human who knows your market. A real expert sees what Zillow can’t.

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I've talked to ALOT of homeowners and very rarely is the information on Zillow correct. Either the number of bathrooms and bedrooms is wrong, or there actually is a finished basement... See the information from those sites comes from the previous listing information. If you've done updates, or not, since you purchased your home... Zillow has no idea.

So when you are ready to get the most accurate value for your property, be sure to schedule an in-home visit with an agent or consultant who will view all the things you've done, or not done, since you bought it.

Talk soon!

Remember if you need straight talk, a smart strategy and want a smooth closing... give me a call. I'd be happy to help with your next transaction :)

~ Erica

(614) 547-3389