I just been on the phone to a number of the local estate agents for a "valuation" they have all give me a figure but refused to come out unless I am ready to enter a contract with them to put the house on the market.
Their excuse was they know the area very well and can judge a house price to within a small percentage so only need a survey for photos and minor adjustments to price.
Can I get around this without paying for a survey?
Why not ask your IP if they will accept an internet based valuation. Whilst I do not like these types of valuation, the new IVA protocol does allow them to be used and you can get a reasonable one for £19.99 on the internet.
You could still ask for a valuation and pretend to be putting your house on the market. Be careful though because there is a big difference between a market valuation and what your property is actually worth. It is a very difficult market to value in and prices are changing daily. Online valuations do not give a true reflection of what your house is worth as the information that is held on there is so minimal. After all houses differ so much, eg.there are several types of 4 bedroom detached ranging from small to executive. If you request an agent to value your property ask them what they realistically think your house would achieve in todays market, not what they would market it at.
Hi CPK - I do not know where you live but most estate agents will come around and give a valuation. They will then give you the hard sell but if you let them know that you are getting some other valuations they will usually not push it but instead offer you incentives to go with them. In the present climate most estate agents will want you on their books as they are not selling.
In our case we got three different valuations (all within £5k of each other) but have reduced our asking price to under £175k to take advantage of the change in stamp duty laws. We still have not had anyone look at the house yet though!!
Good luck!!
Unfortunately most Estate Agents at the moment will not go to a valuation unless they think that you are going to move. if they don't believe that they are going to get any business out of you then they will refuse to come. When asked if you are thinking of moving just say you are thinking about it but need to get a realistic valuation before you decide.
