Why You Should Use a Realtor to Determine Your Home’s Value (Not Just Zillow’s Zestimate)
When it comes to pricing your home, one of the first places many homeowners turn to is Zillow’s Zestimate—a quick, automated home valuation tool that provides an instant estimate based on available data. While convenient, relying solely on an algorithm may not always give you the most accurate picture of your home’s true market value.
A Realtor-conducted Comparable Market Analysis (CMA), on the other hand, provides a more precise and comprehensive assessment of your property’s worth. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between a Zestimate and a CMA, why a Realtor’s expertise matters, and how to get a free professional home valuation from one of our experienced agents at Coldwell Banker Ellison Realty.
What is a Zestimate and How Does It Work?
Zillow’s Zestimate is an automated home valuation model that uses public records, recent sales, tax assessments, and user-submitted data to generate an estimated home value. It’s designed to provide a ballpark figure of a home’s worth based on market trends and comparable data in the area.
While Zestimates can be useful as a starting point, they are not always accurate. Zillow even states that its estimates can be off by 4-6% on average, and in many cases, even more, depending on location, market conditions, and data availability.
✅ Pros of a Zestimate:
- Quick & easy to access
- Uses a large database of home sales
- Good for a general pricing estimate
❌ Cons of a Zestimate:
- Relies on public data, which can be outdated or incorrect
- Doesn’t account for home upgrades, renovations, or unique features
- Market conditions & local trends aren’t factored in as precisely as a Realtor’s evaluation
If you’re looking for a general estimate, you can check your home’s Zestimate here: Zillow Zestimate Home Values. But before making any major selling decisions, let’s talk about why a Realtor’s valuation is the better option.
What is a Comparable Market Analysis (CMA)?
A Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) is a personalized, data-driven home valuation report prepared by a licensed real estate professional. Instead of relying on automated data, a Realtor conducts a deep analysis of your home and the local market to determine its most accurate listing price.
At Coldwell Banker Ellison Realty, our Realtors use a proven process to create a CMA, which includes:
✔ In-Person Evaluation – A Realtor will tour your home to assess condition, upgrades, layout, and unique features.
✔ Neighborhood & Market Trends – Unlike an algorithm, a Realtor understands local market trends, buyer demand, and seasonal fluctuations.
✔ Comparing Similar Homes (Comps) – Your Realtor will analyze recently sold homes, active listings, and pending sales that closely match your home’s size, condition, and location.
✔ Adjustments for Home Improvements – If you’ve remodeled your kitchen, upgraded flooring, or added a pool, these factors are included in your valuation, whereas a Zestimate won’t recognize them.
✔ Expert Pricing Strategy – Based on all this data, your Realtor will recommend a competitive listing price to attract buyers while maximizing your home’s value.
Want to see what your home is really worth? Request a free, no-obligation CMA from one of our expert agents here: Get Your Home Valuation.
Zestimate vs. CMA: Which One is Better?
| Feature | Zillow Zestimate | Realtor’s CMA |
|---|---|---|
| Data Source | Public records, automated algorithms | In-person home evaluation & MLS data |
| Considers Home Updates? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Market Conditions Considered? | ❌ Limited | ✅ Yes |
| Accuracy Level | Can be off by 4-6% or more | Highly accurate based on local market knowledge |
| Personalized Pricing Strategy? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
While Zestimates provide a useful starting point, a Realtor’s CMA gives you the most accurate pricing strategy based on your home’s true condition, local market data, and expert analysis.
If you’re serious about selling and want to get top dollar for your home, relying on an algorithm alone could cost you thousands. A CMA from a professional Realtor ensures you set the right price from the start to attract buyers and close successfully.
What’s Next? Get Your Home’s True Value Today!
If you’re curious about your home’s value, don’t settle for an estimate based on outdated or incomplete data. Instead, connect with one of our experienced Coldwell Banker Ellison Realty agents to receive a personalized CMA for free!
➡ Request your professional home valuation here: Home Valuation Request
Thinking about selling? Check out our Seller Resources for expert tips on maximizing your home’s value.
Still want to compare your Zestimate? You can find it here: Zillow Zestimate, but don’t forget to double-check with a real estate professional!
📞 Have questions? Contact us today! Find a trusted Coldwell Banker Ellison Realty agent near you: Our Agents.
Final Thoughts
While Zillow’s Zestimate is a helpful tool, it’s not always accurate. A Realtor’s Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) is the best way to get a true market value for your home, ensuring you set the right price to sell quickly and for the best possible price.
Don’t leave your biggest asset to an algorithm—work with a professional who knows the market inside and out!
📢 Get started today with a free, no-obligation home valuation:
Connect with one of our expert Realtors
