How to Value Your Property for Sale in a Tough Market

How to Value Your Property for Sale – Especially in a Tough Market

Selling your home is a big decision, and in today’s challenging property market, pricing it correctly from day one is more crucial than ever. An overpriced property can sit unsold for months, while underpricing might mean leaving money on the table.

Here's a practical guide to help you determine the right value for your property—and why it matters more now than ever.

1. Use Trusted Online Valuation Tools

There are several free online tools that give you an instant estimate of your home’s value. These tools combine different data sources to help give you a starting point:

• HM Land Registry and Registers of Scotland – historical sold price data.
• Surveyor records – insights from accredited property professionals.
• Live listings – what similar homes are currently selling or renting for.
• Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) – energy efficiency ratings can affect value.

Try these tools to get an instant estimate:

• Emoov Instant Valuation
• Zoopla Home Values
• OnTheMarket Instant Valuation
• Rightmove House Value

Note: These tools may not account for recent renovations, extensions, or interior upgrades—so if you've made improvements, keep that in mind.

Also important: Buyers have access to these same tools. They’re doing their own research and will spot an overpriced listing quickly. A well-priced home not only looks more attractive but also stands up to online comparisons.

2. Check the Local Market Yourself

One of the most useful steps is simply browsing property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, or OnTheMarket to see what’s on the market near you.

Use filters to narrow your search:

• Your postcode + 1 mile radius
• Same property type (flat, terrace, detached, etc.)
• Same number of bedrooms
• Set a realistic price range

This will give you a feel for what similar properties are listed for—and help you set a competitive price.

3. Be Cautious with Estate Agent Valuations

While estate agents are valuable sources of local knowledge, be aware that some may overvalue your property to win your instruction. In fact, a recent BBC investigation uncovered that one major estate agency regularly overprices listings, then encourages price drops later—sometimes incentivising staff to secure those reductions.

This tactic can waste crucial marketing time and ultimately harm your sale. Always get more than one valuation and ask agents to explain how they arrived at their figure. Look for comparables, recent local sales, and realistic advice based on market conditions.

Final Thoughts

Accurately valuing your home is one of the most important steps when selling—especially in a slower or more competitive market. Use online tools, do your own research, and approach agent valuations with a critical eye.

And remember: today’s buyers are better informed than ever. They’re comparing homes, prices, and value at the click of a button. If your price doesn’t stack up, they’ll move on quickly.

Get it right, and you'll attract serious interest and give yourself the best chance of a smooth, successful sale.