Valuing a property is the first and most important step toward a successful sale. This is because the valuation has a major impact: only with a reliable valuation can you optimally structure the marketing of your property.
You should be aware that the valuation will guide you through the entire sales process: you will determine the asking price based on it, conduct negotiations accordingly, and it will even influence your patience when the first offer arrives.
Furthermore, even if you are selling your property to buy a new one or to plan your retirement, a reliable valuation is essential. If you do not have a reliable valuation, the selling price may deviate significantly from your expectations. You risk making decisions based on the wrong information when purchasing a new home or planning your retirement.
It is therefore in your best interest to determine the value of your property as objectively and accurately as possible. Emotions or wishful thinking should play no role in this. However, you can subsequently explore the upper limits and maximize the selling price through professional marketing by a motivated and qualified real estate agent.
Keep in mind: Values such as the tax value or the insurance value are not good indicators. They do not take current market trends into account. As the name suggests, the market value is determined by the market: it corresponds to what buyers are willing to pay.
In this article, we will show you how to proceed to obtain the most reliable property valuation possible. You will get an overview of the various valuation providers and the associated costs. We also explain the different valuation methods that are typically used. Finally, we will show you how Bestag works to obtain the most reliable valuation.
Property valuation – step by step
Here you will learn how to proceed with your property valuation when a sale is pending. You can find out how Bestag can support you in the final chapter.
Step 1: Collect property data
First, you should compile the relevant information about your property so that you can perform the valuation with the correct details. We have listed the most important information and documents for you:
Land register extract
The land register extract contains important information such as the plot area (for houses), the value share (for condominiums), and the ownership structure, Easements, etc.
If you do not have a land register extract for your property at home, you can request one from the cantonal land registry office.
Floor plans with area specifications
Normally, you can find the area specifications in the floor plans. For valuation purposes, for example, the net living area is very important. Furthermore, professionally prepared floor plans can be used later for marketing purposes.
Building insurance policy
In the building insurance policy, you will find, for example, the year of construction of the property, as well as the building volume (which is relevant for the valuation of single-family homes).
If you do not have your policy at hand, you can order it from the cantonal building insurance provider.
Proof of renovations / renovation summary
If you have invested in your home, this should be taken into account in the valuation. Compile these investments and expenses from recent years, ideally in a clear renovation summary.
Step 2: Hedonic quick valuation (online)
To satisfy your curiosity and get an initial reference point, we recommend an online valuation. This is based on just a few details, so the valuation range is correspondingly broad. Nevertheless, it gives you a first impression of your property's value. This rudimentary price range will also support you in the next step.