How To Learn The Value Of Your House

11 January 2023

There are many reasons to want to value a house.

A new addition to the family may need additional rooms, a work promotion in another location, or even just time for a change may require the home to be sold.

Another reason to value a property is to identify a person’s current financial position. This may be necessary for those starting a business or needing additional finance.

How do people learn the value of their houses? Here are three ways.

Top 4 Ways Of Learning The Value Of Your House

1. Online Valuation Tools

One of the easiest ways to get a valuation is to use one of the many online valuation tools available. They use public data to price your home.

These tools use the automated valuation model (AVM). The valuations are based on data retrieved from public records like deeds of ownership, property transfers, and tax assessments. A mathematical formula is also applied, taking data from recent sales in the area.

The challenge with relying on AVMs is that they’ll value every property, regardless of the available data, possibly giving an inaccurate value.

To effectively use an AVM, do it from a real estate site that also includes a ‘confidence score.’ This value means a professional has checked the result from the AVM and given a score based on how close it is to market value. Any AVM plus a confidence score over 90% can be considered.

2. Comps

One of the most common ways to get a current value for a house is to check out recent sales in the same area.

Take a look around the neighborhood at comparable homes. These are known in the industry as ‘comps.’ When made public, the results of these sales can be an easy predictor of the values in the area.

An ‘apple for apples’ approach needs to be applied here. If the house next door is a little more run-down but has an additional bedroom, that value isn’t a good comparison. If one down the road, with an equal number of rooms, was renovated around the same time, that’s a closer valuation.

The way to get the best valuation for your home is to find four comps — two at the higher price range and two at the lower. Go for something that’s somewhere in the middle.

Remember that values change quickly; any sale over three months ago may not match the current market.

3. Professionally Appraised

The most expensive but arguably the most accurate way to value a home is to get it professionally appraised. These people have seen hundreds to thousands of comparable properties and can give you a correct value.

A 2018 survey revealed that ¼ of US homeowners valued their properties this way.

Lenders will require an appraisal before approving a mortgage; however, they’ll want it done by their own appraisers.

Appraisers may even suggest changes that can be made to increase the property value.

A professionally presented pre-purchase appraisal by a reputable appraiser makes it easier for the potential buyer to decide. This is one task that they don’t have to do.

Appraisers are independent contractors. They get paid per appraisal; they don’t earn commission and therefore offer unbiased opinions.

4. House Valuation Made Easy

Using an AVM is the most convenient way for a person to value their home; however, it’s possibly the least accurate.

Spending the time to compare recent sales on comparable properties in the area is a closer way to get a more accurate price. Choosing a value mid-range of these is the best way.

Unbiased professional appraisers will provide the most accurate value, but at a cost.

Whether using an AVM, checking out local comps, or hiring a professional, there is one surefire way to know the value of a house.

The value is whatever someone else is willing to pay for it!

Additional:

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Tenant Screening And Selection: A Crucial Aspect Of Property Management

Finding and selecting quality tenants is crucial for property managers. The success of your investment relies heavily on who you have living in your units. Proper tenant screening and selection help minimize risks and maximize returns. In this article, we’ll explore key elements of the tenant selection process. We’ll go over how to screen applicants, spot red flags, check references, evaluate credit, and choose ideal tenants. Let’s get started! Overview Of Tenant Screening Goals Thorough tenant screening serves several important goals: Identify responsible tenants who pay rent on time Avoid problem tenants who could disturb others or damage property Verify applicants are who they claim to be Evaluate the ability to afford rent based on income and debts Check backgrounds for any reasons of concern Select tenants who will follow rules and fulfill lease terms Screening is your chance to assess applicants’ qualifications and compatibility before approving them. Use it to gain a 360-degree view informing your leasing decision. The Role Of Property Management Companies In Los Angeles Real Estate Finding and retaining good tenants is crucial for property owners and managers everywhere, but tactics can vary by location. For instance, property management companies in Los Angeles have insight into tenant preferences and screening practices effective for the area. Factors like rental price averages, employment demographics, and housing regulations specific to LA impact local tenant selection approaches there versus other cities. While core principles remain constant, optimizing your tenant vetting process may involve fine-tuning your metro area. Components Of The Tenant Screening Process Comprehensive screening includes several key steps: Detailed Rental Application Have applicants complete a comprehensive rental application covering things like: Full legal name and contact details Social Security Number for credit/background checks Current and past home addresses Employer name, income, position, time employed Personal/professional references with contact info Bank account details for payment processing Vehicle information like make, model, year Emergency contact person details Any relevant remarks about qualifications, special requests, etc. Thorough applications provide a foundation of info to verify and evaluate applicants. Identity Verification Check IDs like driver’s licenses to confirm applicants are who they claim to be. Comparing names, photos, and addresses helps avoid fraud. Income Verification Verify income levels match what’s stated on the application. Request recent paystubs, tax returns, and bank statements as evidence. Income should adequately cover rent and other costs. Employment Verification Speak with the stated employer's HR department to confirm the position, dates employed, and salary. Beware if details seem shaky. Rental History Checks Contact previous landlords to check payment history, lease violations, damages, complaints, evictions, etc. Look for consistent on-time payments. Beware of frequent moves, evictions, or unpaid rent. Credit Checks Run a thorough credit check to verify your credit score, current debts, and any negative marks. Watch for unmanageable debts, court judgments, and bankruptcies. Background Screening Perform criminal and eviction record screening through approved channels to uncover any serious offenses or causes for concern. Personal Reference Checks Contact 1-2 references provided to assess the applicant’s reliability and character from people who know them. Pet Screening If applicants have pets, request veterinary records to confirm they are licensed and vaccinated. Also, verify breeds allowed per property rules. Be sure to follow fair housing laws throughout the screening process and avoid discrimination. Focus objectively on qualifications and ability to meet lease terms. Consulting Tenancy Databases Various rental industry databases help identify past tenancy issues reported by other landlords and property managers: Eviction Records Damage/Complaint Reports Rent Payment History Lease Violations Prior Evictions/Collections While costly, these databases provide an added layer of rental background insight from an impartial nationwide source. They can reveal serious red flags not evident elsewhere. Balancing Tenant Screening Elements Each screening component provides important pieces of the full picture. But avoid putting too much weight on any single factor. For instance, a low credit score doesn’t necessarily mean the person won’t pay rent reliably if other factors check out. And someone with an old petty misdemeanor isn’t necessarily high-risk if they have great landlord references. Consider the full scope - credit, background, income, rental history, interview impressions and references for a balanced decision. Don't let one element override others without due consideration. Strategies For Choosing The Best Tenant Picking the ideal tenant involves balancing several factors. The ability to afford rent is of course essential. Tenants need a stable income adequate to cover the rent plus other costs. However, also consider their income growth potential, not just current earnings. Look at their track record too. Do they have a solid history of paying on time, maintaining units well, following rules, and keeping good relationships with past landlords and neighbors? Consistency in meeting obligations predicts future behavior. Also assess their responsible character based on the full application, background checks, interview, and references. Do they seem conscientious, honest, and reasonable? Shared values matter for a good fit. While an imperfect credit score does not preclude someone, evaluate if they are actively managing income and debts responsibly regardless of past issues. Furthermore, consider lifestyle compatibility with the property and community. Will their habits mesh well? Similar priorities and standards make for an easier relationship. Avoid fixating on any single factor when choosing tenants. Seek those who balance financial ability, compatibility and character. This leads to positive partnerships that serve both parties' needs. Taking a big-picture view helps identify tenants who will be assets to your property and business. Setting New Tenants Up For Success Once selected, help tenants start strong by: Providing a detailed move-in checklist covering rules, contacts, procedures Clearly explaining policies before signing the lease to set expectations Assisting with utilities connections and community amenities access Offering a tenant portal or app for easy maintenance requests Following up after move-in to ensure satisfaction Proactive support fosters longer and happier tenancies benefitting all parties. Ongoing communication, responsiveness and periodic check-ins help too. Dealing With Rejection Decisions Carefully Rejecting applicants can be uncomfortable. But follows key principles: Be objective - based solely on qualifications, not personal factors Stick to facts - explain specifically how criteria were unmet Follow Fair Housing laws - no discrimination based on protected classes Maintain privacy - don’t discuss decisions publicly Respond promptly - let them know quickly so they can make other plans Rejection is just part of the screening process. Handling it properly avoids fair housing violations while preserving your business reputation. FAQs What Are The Standard Tenant Screening Fees? Typical screening fees range from $30-$75 per applicant to cover criminal/eviction checks, credit reports, reference checks and processing time. Some landlords charge slightly more for deeper screening. When Should I Require A Security Deposit? Requesting a security deposit equal to 1+ month's rent is common at lease signing to cover any damages and provide financial security. Make sure deposits comply with state laws. What Screening Practices Could Expose Me To Fair Housing Violations? Avoid discrimination based on protected characteristics like race, gender, religion, disabilities, national origin, or family status. Focus objectively on qualifications alone. If A Tenant Stops Paying Rent Suddenly, What Are My Options? You can issue pay or quit notices as a formal demand for payment. If they fail to pay after proper legal notice, you may proceed with formal eviction filings to reclaim possession. Key Takeaways Tenant selection has a huge impact on your investment's success. Screen diligently by: Reviewing detailed rental applications Running background checks Verifying incomes and employment Checking references thoroughly Interviewing thoughtfully Consulting industry databases Balancing all factors objectively This identifies responsible tenants who pay reliably, follow rules, and maintain properties well. Avoiding just a few problem tenancies through careful selection preserves your income and asset values in the long run. Finding ideal tenants is crucial, but takes diligence. A consistent screening process protects your investment and leads to longer, more positive tenancies for all. Invest time upfront to avoid major headaches later on. Your perfect tenant match is out there! The solid screening takes time but adds tremendous value. Your ideal tenant match is out there! Read Also: 10 Rights You Have As A Tenant That Your Landlord Won’t Tell You About Investing In Property Is Investing In Your Future

Maintaining A Healthy Relationship with Tenants

It's crucial to maintain a healthy relationship between tenants, landlords, or property managers. Customer satisfaction is an essential component of every business' success. Without customers, tenants, in this case, commercial properties will not get enough profit and fail. What Are Tenants? A tenant is someone who has the right to occupy rental properties under a lease or rental agreement. Following their contract, tenants can live in and use the facilities or feature as long as they follow the conditions of their leases. Importance of An Excellent Tenant Relationship A relationship with your tenants is vital to the success of your rental properties. If you are not in good terms with your tenants, that could lead to possible harm on your reputation and your property's potential to attract more people. Before you look at the many aspects in which you can have a long-standing and beneficial connection with your customers, you must consider these following factors: Your tenants must be more likely to take care of your estate They must provide quick rental payments Less stress when it goes to maintenance and repair requests More efficient and profitable renting How You Can Attain A Healthy Relationship with Tenants At Fairfax, Virginia property management, you need a healthy and productive way of communicating with tenants. Here are some of the ways you can use to form an excellent relationship: Be Open and Transparent from The Beginning Locals won't typically be surprised after signing a lease agreement with you and moving to your estate. You must express your requirements at the outset to be clear with both sides. At Fairfax, Virginia property management, a business relationship starts with a clean slate, so be in best terms with your tenants. Be Fast and Efficient One thing most residents' value above everything else is the rate at which their issues are taken care of. If a tenant has a problem, try to fix the problem as soon as feasible. Try contacting your landlord to help with the issues. If not, think about having a new property manager. In the end, your property and tenants must be protected and looked after. If your landlord has to wait a long time to solve the problems, they will probably get angrier. Respect the privacy of Your Tenant You may have to access your rental estate occasionally. However, one way to erode your relationship with your tenants is to spring these entries at the last minute. The problem should not be your landlord at any moment; this will create them feel uneasy and comfortable. Try to work with the timetable of your tenant when it comes to regular estate transactions. Also, you should always monitor your tenants after entering the premises to make sure they don't encounter anything that could disturb them. Final Words You can't expect your rental properties to do well if you don't take care of your tenants. At all times, you must always prioritize your customers' satisfaction and provide them quality service. By doing so, they will see your right side and can even spread kind words about you and your properties. Read Also: 10 Rights You Have As A Tenant That Your Landlord Won’t Tell You About Investing In Property Is Investing In Your Future

Construction Safety Systems: Promoting A Safer Industry

Safety is a critical factor in any construction site. However, some construction workers and management overlook safety until an accident happens. Working at a construction site is one of the most dangerous professions since many accidents occur, leading to injuries. Therefore, employers and professionals managing construction projects should use safety systems for ethical and financial reasons. They should also ensure that the workers understand the risks and are cautious when working in hazardous situations. This is because accidents and injuries in construction sites lead to medical bills, project delays, lost work hours, compensation lawsuits, and headaches for human resource departments. This piece highlights how construction project managers can promote safety and prevent workplace accidents. What Is Construction Site Protection? Construction site protection is nothing but keeping yourself and others from construction-associated activities like injury, disease, and even death. It is often a hazardous endeavor where site employees are exposed to potential risks. For instance, a worker is working at a height or relocating machinery which is extremely heavy. The resulting causes of a construction site fatality include electrocution, falls, and crush injuries. Common Hazards Taking Place At A Construction Site Hazards taking place at a construction site have caused deaths and injuries all across the world. When hazard identifications fail, it is either due to a lack of safety systems or improper training. Before we delve into the ways of maintaining construction-place safety, let us first discover what are the common hazards that take place in a site: Falling From Heights One of the most common fatal injuries that site workers experience is falling from height. According to HSE, 47% of employee fatalities are caused by falling from heights. Every employee who operates at height requires proper training and the right set of equipment. Although safety harnesses are important at every construction site, some do not wear them and, as a result, fall from height. Trips, Falls & Slips Another very common construction hazard is trips, slips, and falls. Construction sites usually have uneven terrain and unchanged terrain. Hence, trips, falls, and slips are no surprises at all. More than seven thousand construction workers are either injured severely or die due to a major trip or fall. It is the duty of managers and site supervisors to manage the site effectively to ensure the safe movement of workers. Tremendous Noise A lot of workers have complained about prolonged hearing problems and deafness when they work around loud and repetitive noises. They are also a dangerous distraction that distracts a worker from his job and results in accidents. A comprehensive assessment stating noise risk must be highlighted to avoid noise-related construction site hazards. Steps To Maintain Safety In A Construction Site Workplace safety is a significant consideration- irrespective of where you work. But when it comes to construction, particularly, one must always be careful. Even the smallest mistake can result in a life-altering consequence. Thinking about how to do so? Here are a set of steps that might help you: Create Awareness About Safety Hazards Ignorant workers are among the most significant dangers because they could make terrible mistakes, putting everyone at risk. Construction site managers should ensure the workers understand the possible hazards before they set foot on a construction site. Understanding the risks ensures workers stay alert to prevent and respond to accidents. Therefore, employers should use OSHA safety guidelines to equip workers with the necessary knowledge to enhance safety. Only workers or visitors aware of the dangers of a construction site should be allowed access. Quality Equipment Workers need quality equipment and a spacious workplace to perform their tasks without causing accidents. Wrong or faulty equipment increases the chances of accidents and injuries. Therefore, construction managers should pay attention to equipment maintenance schedules and provide quality safety systems. They can also seek help from Doka and other companies that provide safety systems and equipment. It is also crucial to prevent exposure-related issues such as dehydration by providing water and using personal protective equipment. Training Workers Some construction workers gain skills on the job, but safety training is best offered before accessing the site. The authorities concerned with workplace safety often publish resources to help construction companies train their workers. For example, they provide worksheets, pamphlets, training videos, and sometimes one-on-one training. Safety training is important not just for new workers but also for experienced workers. Therefore, construction firms should organize training to ensure all the workers gain or refresh their safety knowledge. The safety training can focus on simple things such as using a ladder or fall protection to ensure all the workers are well informed. Documentation Proper documentation is crucial for workplace safety. Construction sites must meet certain legal and safety standards before construction work begins. Therefore, construction firms should only commence operations with relevant licenses and documents. Contractors undertaking specific tasks such as blasting must provide relevant certification before accessing the site. Documentation protects the construction firm and helps prevent accidents and public scrutiny. Effective Communication Accidents usually happen when the workers are unaware of what to do or expect in a certain situation. However, sharing information about construction goals, objectives, and daily activities can reduce surprises or mistakes that could cause harm. Besides, the construction management should provide communication devices and tools such as headsets, walkie-talkies, and smartphones to ensure effective communication about workplace hazards. Effective communication ensures everyone is informed, enhancing operations and reducing safety risks. Supervision Construction employees should always follow the relevant safety guidelines and institute mitigation measures. However, since not all workers will follow the relevant procedures, supervision can help identify loopholes and enforce safety standards. For example, supervisors should keep tabs on all workers and ensure they have relevant safety gear. The workers should report any safety concerns to the supervisor for appropriate mitigation measures. The Bottom Line… Stay Safe! Construction companies should build quality structures while minimizing accidents, injuries, deaths, and related lawsuits. The hope of reducing accidents in construction sites lies in raising awareness, safety training, effective communication, supervision, documentation, and quality equipment. These simple things can help reduce accidents, enhance safety, and prevent legal issues associated with workplace accidents. Read Also: Senior Staircase Safety: What You Need to Know Construction Safety – What you didn’t know! Top 7 Safety Tips For Road Construction

How To Learn The Value Of Your House

Top 4 Ways Of Learning The Value Of Your House

1. Online Valuation Tools

2. Comps

3. Professionally Appraised

4. House Valuation Made Easy

What Should You Do Before The House Movers Arrive?

10 Best Ways To Find Cheap Homes To Flip

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Related

Tenant Screening And Selection: A Crucial Aspect Of Property Management

Maintaining A Healthy Relationship with Tenants

Construction Safety Systems: Promoting A Safer Industry

How To Learn The Value Of Your House

Top 4 Ways Of Learning The Value Of Your House

1. Online Valuation Tools

2. Comps

3. Professionally Appraised

4. House Valuation Made Easy

Share this Article

What Should You Do Before The House Movers Arrive?

10 Best Ways To Find Cheap Homes To Flip

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related