Estate agents can receive a prospective seller’s own estimate of their property’s value alongside an online valuation enquiry under a new feature introduced by ValPal.
After receiving an automated valuation, homeowners are invited to use a slider to indicate what they believe their property is worth and can add comments explaining their reasoning.
That feedback is then sent to the agent with the enquiry, giving them an indication of the seller’s expectations before arranging a market appraisal.
ValPal said the feature could also allow homeowners to flag characteristics they believe affect the value of their property but may not be reflected in the data used for an automated valuation.
These could include a view, proximity to a station, a landscaped garden or improvements such as a kitchen extension.
Craig Vile, director of the ValPal Network, said: “One of the frustrations people often have with automated systems is that they don’t have the opportunity to say, ‘Ah, but…’
“Every homeowner believes there’s something that makes their property different. It might be the stunning river view that doesn’t show up in the data, the fact it’s just a short walk from the station, a beautifully landscaped garden, a kitchen extension that’s transformed the way the family lives, or simply years of care and investment that they believe add value.”
Vile said it remained for agents to decide whether the factors identified by homeowners should affect their assessment of a property’s value.
He added: “Whether those factors ultimately influence the valuation is a matter for professional judgement, but at least the conversation begins with a much clearer understanding of the seller’s expectations rather than assumptions on either side.
“Technology is very good at analysing data. Homeowners are very good at understanding what makes their home special. Estate agents bring professional judgement, local market knowledge and experience.
“When you combine all three, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance of arriving at the right asking price from the very beginning.”
ValPal emphasised that the feature was intended to support conversations between homeowners and agents rather than replace professional judgement.
The update has been made available to all ValPal users at no additional cost.
