Just because a website comes up on the first page of a search, doesn’t mean it’s the end all, be all of everything. Do a search for “homes for sale” and Zillow pops up. Prospective Sellers use their Zestimate tool to figure out what their home is worth. Later they hire a Realtor and are surprised that actual research done by their real estate professional comes up with a different result than Zillow. Why? Because there are limitations to Zillow.

“Zillow’s zestimates have been far too optimistic. The number given by Zillow will not reflect current market conditions,” California Realtor Chris Molnar reports, “Much goes into determining the list price. A current market analysis is just the first step. Pre-viewing active listings in the neighborhood and knowing why the house around the corner sold for $50,000 less than expected, is a must. It is important to know which active listings are short sales or bank owned. Sellers are well served to have a discussion with a full time Realtor to determine where the market value of their home really is.”

Drew from Zillow shares, “A Zestimate is not a replacement for a CMA or appraisal by a local professional who has been to your house. That said, we are continually working to improve our accuracy.”

The smart move is to work with an experienced Realtor to get the most realistic market value of your home. With over 10 years of real estate experience, Nate Bialik of the Bialik Real Estate Team in West Michigan knows his stuff. Go read what his clients say about their experience with Bialik Real Estate: Testimonials.  Thinking of selling your home? Call or Text Nate Bialik today at 616 720.1220.

Did you know that information on homes for sale in West Michigan is updated every 15 minutes on BialikRealEstate.com! Not all real estate websites have that ability. Check out the Bialik Real Estate Search Tool. Remember to Bookmark or save as a Favorite on your internet browser: /west-michigan-real-estate/