Zestimates Don’t Do Walk-Throughs
Algorithms estimate; Realtors interpret. Here’s why human expertise still matters when accuracy—and your biggest investment—are on the line.
Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) like Zillow’s Zestimate promise instant numbers, but speed doesn’t equal accuracy. Even in well-documented markets like Phoenix, AVMs can be off by 2%–6.5% for on-market homes, potentially skewing the price by tens of thousands of dollars on a $300,000 property.
A Realtor’s valuation blends data with context and care—the difference between a spreadsheet and a story.
Physical Insight
AVMs have never set foot inside your home. They assume “average condition” and can’t account for real-world details—a remodeled kitchen, premium lot, or mature landscaping. A Realtor can see and feel those qualities, understanding how they shape buyer perception and true market value.
Better Data
Realtors rely on the Multiple Listing System (MLS)—a cooperative database where agents share the most current property information. The MLS includes active, pending, and withdrawn listings that rarely appear in public records. AVMs, by contrast, rely on delayed or incomplete public data, which can quickly fall out of date in fast-moving markets like Phoenix.
Human Context
Algorithms can’t tell if your home sits on a quiet cul-de-sac or a busy street. They miss curb appeal, school districts, and community amenities—all factors that influence what buyers are willing to pay today.
Experience and Strategy
AVMs calculate; Realtors interpret. We read the market’s pulse—why a home sold quickly, why another lingered, and what price will attract serious buyers right now. We also bring objectivity, helping you avoid the “ownership bias” that can lead to unrealistic pricing.
Real Credibility
When it comes to mortgages or refinances, lenders rely on human valuations, not algorithms. A Realtor’s analysis reflects the market as it is, not as a model predicts.
Real Estate Made Human
Algorithms can estimate value. Realtors understand it. If you’re thinking about selling—or just curious what your home might bring—start with a valuation grounded in experience, empathy, and precision.