Exact comparable sales
Not just suburb medians. Ask for address-level sales and the reason each one is relevant.
Agent appraisal guide
How to sanity-check an Adelaide agent appraisal.
A real estate appraisal is useful, but it should be tested against comparable sales, property-specific adjustments, buyer demand, and campaign method.
The appraisal number is only as good as the evidence behind it.
A strong appraisal should explain which sales were used, why they are comparable, and what adjustments were made for condition, land, accommodation, title, street appeal, and competing listings.
If two agents give very different numbers, the winner is not automatically the highest number. The better appraisal is the one that can survive buyer feedback and market evidence.
Evidence an Adelaide appraisal should include
Ask for enough detail to compare appraisals side by side.
Adjustment notes
Find out how the agent adjusted for renovation quality, land size, floorplan, parking, and outdoor areas.
Buyer depth
Ask where likely buyers are coming from and whether they are upsizers, downsizers, investors, or commuters.
Method fit
Auction advice should be backed by buyer competition, comparable clearance, and property type.
Appraisal red flags
- The agent quotes a high number but cannot name the closest comparable sales.
- The appraisal relies on suburb median data without adjusting for your property type.
- The campaign method is recommended before buyer depth and price sensitivity are discussed.
- Commission, marketing costs, and likely net proceeds are treated as separate afterthoughts.
Use PreList Guide before you compare agent proposals.
Start with an independent preview so you know which appraisal questions to ask.
Preview first
Check the address, early selling range, comparable signals, and appraisal questions before you sign.
Run the free previewAppraisal FAQ
Is an agent appraisal legally binding?
No. It is an opinion of likely selling price, not a formal valuation or a guaranteed sale outcome.
How many appraisals should I compare?
Many sellers compare at least two or three, but the quality of evidence matters more than the count.
Should I choose the agent with the highest appraisal?
Not by default. A high appraisal should be backed by comparable sales, buyer demand, and a realistic campaign plan.