Dear Paul,
Ever wonder how Realtors actually figure out what a home is worth? Sure, Zillow and Redfin spit out instant numbers, but those “estimates” can be off by more than 50% (sometimes way more). It’s kind of like asking a Yankees fan and a Red Sox fan to agree on who’s had the better team in history. You’ll definitely get a number - and probably some colorful debate - but not necessarily the truth.
What blows me away is this: a home is often someone’s single biggest asset, yet most people rarely check in on its value. Meanwhile, they’ll follow their stock ticker like it’s the Super Bowl. I once had a client who lived in her house for over 40 years and had no clue what it was worth -until I prepared a CMA for her. Gah-lee, let’s just say she nearly fell off her chair (in a good way).
So what really goes into a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)? It’s not smoke and mirrors - it’s a mix of data, judgment, and good old-fashioned legwork. As my seasoned mentor Chet Crabtree likes to remind me: “You gotta do the homework, Paul. No shortcuts ever.”
Here’s what that homework looks like:
1. Real data – Sold properties in your neighborhood, not wishful asking prices
2. Adjustments – No two homes are identical. A new kitchen, an ocean view, or even being on the “quiet” side of the street can shift value.
3. Realtor-only technology – Tools not available to the public that sharpen the numbers far beyond anything online.
4. Market context – Inventory, demand, and seasonality
5. The human factor (most important) – Algorithms don’t walk through the door. Seeing a home in person - how it feels, its condition, its quirks - makes all the difference.
The end result: a pricing strategy built on facts and context - not guesswork. Price too high and the property sits. Price too low and you’re potentially leaving money on the table.
And here’s the kicker: I’ve also got the backing of Christie’s International Real Estate - the world’s leading luxury real estate network. So, when I prepare a CMA, I’m not just aligning your home with local comps - I’m aligning it with the full weight of Christie’s best-in-class market reach.
Ok, here’s the sales pitch: If you’ve ever wondered what your home might be worth in today’s market, I’d be glad to prepare a complimentary CMA. No strings attached - it’s just part of being your local real estate resource.
Hope you’re enjoying the summer on the Cape. And if you’re around Friday morning, swing by Chatham Perk - I’ll be there, still insisting their coffee is the very BEST on the elbow. Just one request: no Red Sox jerseys at my Fireside Chat. I’m already a Yankees fan in enemy territory, so let’s not push our luck. Gah-lee…
Talk soon,
Realtor® | Coastal Cape Cod, MA
License: 9585841 (MA)