A valuation inspection helps establish the property’s attributes and condition for an assessment of market value. Vanguard Valuations confirms the appropriate inspection method and report scope before you proceed.
There may be many reasons you would need an inspection valuation, from buying and selling a home and house valuations for capital gains tax purposes to family law valuation and property litigation requirements.
In this post, you’ll discover why a property valuation is necessary, what happens during a valuation inspection, how to prepare for a valuation inspection, the cost implications and how you can book a property valuation with our credible team at Vanguard Valuations.
Why is a Property Valuation Necessary?
There are a few reasons why you may request a property inspection to understand your property’s value fully.
A property valuation inspection is necessary when:
- Buying a home – A lender will arrange to value your property to check that the asking price (or the price you’ve agreed to pay) matches the market value. They do this as your home is often used as security for your mortgage, so they need to have an accurate valuation.
- Selling a home – A property valuation offers you a true insight into the value of your home. It can help set your expectation of a sale price and gives buyers a transparent perspective of your property.
- Investment properties: a valuation may support tax calculations where market value is required. Ask your tax adviser whether a report is needed and the relevant date.
- Legal disputes – A property valuation is often needed in the case of family law, inheritance or boundary disputes. A property valuation from an independent certified valuer acts as transparent, well-supported evidence to help in property litigation proceedings.
What Happens During a Valuation Inspection?
A physical inspection and a desktop valuation are different scopes. A desktop valuation uses available records and market evidence without a site visit. Suitability depends on the property, purpose and information available.
Once you’ve contacted Vanguard Valuations, we’ll arrange a time for one of our highly experienced property valuers to attend your premises.
During a physical valuation inspection, the valuer will:
- Determine the condition of the property
- Note visible condition and any matters requiring further specialist investigation.
- Determine the property (for e.g. room size) if an accurate floorplan has not been provided
- Record visible condition relevant to value. A valuation inspection is not a building, structural or pest inspection; engage the relevant specialist for those investigations.
- See if all the stated attributes of the property are correct (e.g. not just sales gimmicks)
- Give an insight into the neighbourhood and surrounding areas
A desktop report can provide an assessment of market value within its agreed scope, but limited information may make it unsuitable. We explain the method and limitations before you proceed.
If you’re unsure what option is most suitable for your situation, ask our friendly team at Vanguard Valuations.
Do you need a physical inspection?
Not every valuation needs one. Whether a desktop valuation is enough depends on the purpose of the report and the risk you are carrying. These questions help decide:
- What is the risk if the value is too high or too low? Where an inaccurate figure could cost a significant amount, an inspection is usually worth it.
- Does the purpose depend on an inspected value? A valuation for family law proceedings, for example, is normally inspected.
- Can the property be assessed from records? Some properties have features or defects that only show on site.
- Who will rely on the report? Ask them whether a desktop report is acceptable.
- What does the valuer advise? We tell you which scope suits the property before you proceed.
How to Prepare for a Valuation Inspection?
The first thing you’ll need to do to prepare for a valuation inspection is to ensure you can provide access to the property at the set time and date. Each room, garage, etc., will need to be open so the valuer can complete an accurate property inspection.
Remember, if you have any pets, keep them restrained so the valuer doesn’t accidentally let them out.
If you have a copy of the building plan, floor plan and so on, sending these to the valuer prior to the valuation inspection will speed up the process for you.
Provide safe, clear access. You do not need to renovate or style the property for a valuation. Tell the valuer about incomplete work, defects and relevant changes so the report reflects the actual property.
The property does not need to be spotless. Mess does not count against the value unless it affects the condition of the property.
The valuer will take photos of your home, in particular the front and rear yards, kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms and living rooms, as part of their valuation evidence collection.
While the valuer is on-site with you, you can also disclose any extra things you’ve done to the property that would have improved its value (renovations, etc.). And, if you’ve got any local knowledge of sales of similar properties, let the valuer know to help them with their investigation.
Cost Implications: How Much Does a House Valuation Cost in Australia?
If you’re deciding on whether to get an evaluation done, you’re probably wondering how much does a house valuation cost in Australia.
Vanguard Valuations’ standard stamp duty and CGT valuations start from $490 for an apartment and $540 for a house, including GST. The final fee depends on the property and scope and is confirmed in writing. The separate 30 June 2027 campaign has different pricing and conditions.
For mortgage purposes, check the lender’s valuation process and charges. A private report is not automatically accepted by a lender.
However, it’s worth investing in a physical property inspection if you need a property valuation for litigation reasons, determining capital gains tax, or peace of mind when buying or selling a home.
Your house valuation cost in Australia may vary due to reasons such as:
- Your location (rural or metro)
- The amount of information you can provide before the inspection (floorplans, council plans, etc.)
- The size of your property
How to Get a Property Valuation with Vanguard Valuations
A valuation inspection helps establish the property’s attributes and condition for an assessment of market value. Vanguard Valuations confirms the appropriate inspection method and report scope before you proceed.
- Please request a quote, email us or call us on 1300 359 886
- A Certified Property Valuer will be in touch to arrange an inspection of your asset at a time that suits you
- Along with inspecting your property, the valuer will research your property and the surrounding area
- A thorough and accurate report will be prepared and emailed to you
- Our team will be on hand to answer any questions you have
Our team of property valuation inspection experts can help you with the following:
- When you’re buying or selling a home
- With a tax depreciation report
- When you need a family law valuation
- With property litigation reporting
Contact Vanguard Valuations for All Your Property Valuation Needs
Contact Vanguard Valuations to discuss the report you need. We prepare valuations across NSW, ACT and VIC and confirm coverage and inspection arrangements for the property.