Frequently Asked Questions

What is a certified property valuation?

A certified property valuation is a comprehensive analysis completed by a qualified valuer to determine the fair market value of any subject property. As such, a property valuation includes extensive research and evidence to support this determination and is legally certified to comply with government legislation and criteria. The value of the property can be calculated either at its current market value, or at a retrospective date.

Property valuations can be necessary for a variety of purposes, across any property type. It is vital to ensure your property valuation is completed by an independent, certified professional to sufficiently fulfil any requirements.

Why would you need a property valuation?

Understanding the true value determined through a property valuation can create greater certainty when informing decisions as well as reducing potential risks. As such, seeking out a property valuation ensures the fair market value of the subject property to be used in a variety of formal and informal circumstances. In turn, you will receive a report to suit any individual requirement backed by evidence and industry expertise.

As a legally certified document, a certified property valuation is necessary when dealing directly with any kind of governing body and judicial requirements while remaining completely independent and without conflict of interest.

What is the difference between an “as is” and an “as if complete” property valuation?

Most properties will require an “as is” property valuation, which is completed based on the current condition of the property on the date of inspection.

If a property is bought off-the-plan, or has planned or progressing renovations, an “as if complete” property valuation may be required. This considers what the final condition of the property will be once any improvements are finished and the property is complete.

Both “as is” and “as if complete” property valuations use comparable sales data gathered at the time of valuation to calculate the property’s worth. Therefore, they determine the current market value of the property either in its present state, or if it were currently complete.

How does a property valuation differ from a bank valuation?

Bank valuations and property valuations both aim to seek the value of the subject property, however, they have very different incentives behind this.

A bank valuation is organised by the lender to weigh the risk of approving a loan and to ensure loan security. Because of this, bank valuations have an existing agenda that tends to push towards a conservative value to minimise risk if the loan was to be defaulted.

A property valuation, however, aims to determine the fair market value of the subject property independently and without bias. This is ascertained by providing a transparent report based on the analysis of the subject property and a direct comparison to the local property market.

What is a certified property valuer?

A certified property valuer is an industry professional trained and qualified by the Australian Property Institute (API). Also known as a Certified Practicing Valuer (CPV), a property valuer will carry out independent valuation services across residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

A certified property valuer will undergo an average of six years training, including tertiary education and professional industry practice to ascertain the qualifications to complete valuation services.

Certified property valuers hold an acute insight into their local property market and are legally certified to undergo valuations for a variety of niched and specialised purposes. They are therefore qualified to complete valuation reports compliant with legal and legislative requirements of any governing body.

How does a property valuer conduct a valuation?

To conduct a valuation, the property valuer will undergo extensive research utilising dedicated property databases and industry expertise that results in a comprehensive analysis of the subject property. This will include and a selection of comparable sales in the local area to inform its value, and information regarding the overall market condition.

Our property valuers go through a rigorous process to determine the fair market value of a property to ensure complete accuracy and transparency. The extensive research and methodologies that goes into conducting a valuation report are completed to meet the standards of the Australian Property Institute (API) and the International Valuation Standards (IVS).

What are the benefits of using an independent property valuer?

To receive an objective, thorough, and bias free valuation report that complies with any legislative standards an independent property valuer is required. An independent valuation can be used for a variety of purposes, whether for private use or to adhere to legal requirements.

Our independent property valuers are fully certified by the Australian Property Institute (API) and many also hold AVI and RICS qualifications. With extensive hands‑on experience in the property market and valuation industry, as well as tertiary qualifications, our experts deliver accurate and comprehensive valuation services free from any conflict of interest. Their rigorous training and highly regarded industry expertise ensure that every report is both reliable and professionally executed, giving you the confidence to make informed decisions.

What do our property valuers include in a valuation report?

When determining the subject property’s fair market value, a property valuer is tasked with assessing the property, taking into account over 200 variables. As such, a property valuer will commonly complete an on-site inspection to assess the building’s condition, fixtures and features, location, land value and any notable ancillary improvements.

The property valuer will also utilise various methodologies and property databases to ensure complete transparency and accuracy. This includes researching the subject property’s geographical influences, including any environmental risk factors, access to public transport, and proximity to local shopping districts and recreational amenities. An analysis of the local property market and local comparable sales is also assessed to determine its value.