General Questions
What does a property valuer actually do?
A property valuer is a qualified professional who provides an independent, evidence-based opinion of a property's market value. Unlike a real estate agent's appraisal, which is a marketing estimate, a valuer's report follows a recognised methodology, is supported by comparable sales evidence, and is accepted by banks, courts and government agencies.
How is a valuation different from a real estate agent's appraisal?
A real estate agent's appraisal is generally a free, informal estimate intended to help set a listing price, and is not independent of the agent's interest in securing the sale. A valuation is prepared by a qualified, independent valuer, follows a defined methodology, and is a formal report that lenders, courts and government bodies can rely on.
Do I need to be present for the valuation inspection?
It's not always required, but it's recommended where possible so you can provide the valuer with access and answer any questions about the property. Your local valuer will confirm what's needed when they arrange the inspection.
Valuation Types & Purpose
What is a mortgage or bank valuation?
A mortgage valuation (also called a bank or security valuation) is commissioned by a lender to confirm that a property provides adequate security for a loan. It's usually arranged directly with the lender or their valuation panel, rather than by the borrower.
What is a pre-purchase valuation, and do I need one?
A pre-purchase valuation gives a prospective buyer an independent opinion of a property's market value before they commit to a purchase, which can help avoid overpaying or support price negotiations. It's optional but often recommended for significant purchases.
What is a pre-sale valuation?
A pre-sale valuation gives a property owner an independent view of likely market value before listing a property for sale, which can help inform pricing decisions alongside real estate agent advice.
When is a valuation needed for family law matters?
In family law property settlements, an independent valuation is often needed to establish the value of real estate, business interests or other significant assets so that a property pool can be divided fairly. Courts and legal advisers generally expect this valuation to come from an independent, appropriately qualified valuer.
What is a deceased estate valuation used for?
A deceased estate valuation establishes the market value of a property or asset as at the date of death, which is generally required for probate, estate administration and potential capital gains tax purposes.
What is an SMSF valuation, and why is it required?
Self-managed superannuation funds are generally required under superannuation law to value fund assets, including real property, at market value each year, and particularly when assets are acquired from or sold to a related party. An independent valuation supports the fund's compliance with these obligations.
What is a plant and equipment valuation used for?
A plant and equipment valuation assesses machinery, vehicles or specialised equipment for purposes such as asset finance, insurance, financial reporting or business sale.
Cost & Timing
How much does a property valuation cost in Australia?
Valuation fees vary depending on the type of property, its location, its value and the purpose of the valuation. A straightforward residential valuation is typically less expensive than a commercial or business valuation, which involves more detailed analysis. Contact your local network valuer for an obligation-free quote based on your specific circumstances. See our full cost guide in the Resources section for a more detailed breakdown of what drives valuation fees.
How long does a property valuation take?
Timeframes vary by valuer, location and valuation complexity, but a typical residential valuation report is often completed within a few business days of the inspection. Your local valuer will confirm an expected timeframe when you request a quote.
Can a valuation be done without a physical inspection?
Most valuations for formal purposes, such as mortgage, family law, deceased estate or SMSF compliance, require a physical inspection, since the valuer needs to assess the property's condition, features and any factors that could affect value. Desktop valuations exist for some limited purposes but are generally less comprehensive.
Choosing a Valuer
What qualifications should a valuer have?
In Australia, professional valuers are commonly Certified Practising Valuers (CPV) with the Australian Property Institute (API), and in some states must also be registered with a state valuers registration board. Always check that the person or firm preparing your valuation holds appropriate qualifications and, where applicable, registration.
Are the valuers in the Valuations Australia network independent?
Yes. Each business in the Valuations Australia network is independently owned and operated. Valuers are not employed by, or financially incentivised by, any bank, real estate agency or developer, which supports the independence of their valuation opinions.
Does Valuations Australia carry out valuations itself?
Valuations Australia is the national parent brand that connects clients with the independent valuation business covering their state or territory. The valuation itself is carried out by that local, independently owned firm.
Specific Situations
I need a valuation for litigation or a court matter — can your network help?
Yes. Our network's valuers regularly prepare valuations for litigation, family law and dispute-resolution purposes, including expert reports suitable for court proceedings. Let us know the nature of the matter when you request a quote so we can match you with a valuer experienced in that area.
Can I get a valuation for insurance purposes?
Yes. Insurance or reinstatement valuations assess what it would cost to rebuild or replace a property or asset, which is different from its market value. Let your local valuer know that the valuation is for insurance purposes so they can apply the right methodology.
Which areas does Valuations Australia cover?
Our network covers every Australian state and territory: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania and the Northern Territory.