Whether you’re selling your home, refinancing your mortgage, or preparing for a legal settlement, a certified house valuer can help you understand exactly what your property is worth. But what does a house valuer actually do—and how are they different from real estate agents?
In this guide, we’ll explain what house valuers are responsible for, how valuations work in Australia, and when to engage one for the most accurate and compliant outcome.
What Is a House Valuer?
A house valuer is a licensed professional trained to assess the market value of residential property. They provide formal, written reports used by:
- Banks and lenders
- Courts and solicitors
- Accountants and financial planners
- The ATO and insurance providers
In Australia, house valuers are usually accredited by the Australian Property Institute (API) and hold the title of Certified Practising Valuer (CPV).
Unlike real estate agents who offer appraisals to estimate a potential sale price, valuers offer objective, evidence-based assessments that can be used for legal and financial purposes.
What Does a House Valuer Do?
A house valuer’s job is to determine the fair market value of a home based on:
- A physical property inspection
- Recent sales of similar properties in the same area
- Local market conditions and trends
- Regulatory factors such as zoning and land use restrictions
The result is a comprehensive valuation report that can be relied on for decisions involving loans, tax, legal matters, and more.
When Should You Hire a House Valuer?
You may need a formal valuation in the following scenarios:
Selling or Buying a Home
- Confirm your home’s worth before setting an asking price or making an offer
- Avoid overpaying or underpricing
Refinancing Your Mortgage
- Banks require updated valuations to determine how much they can lend
- Helps determine your Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR)
Legal and Estate Planning
- Divorce or separation settlements
- Probate and deceased estate asset division
- Property transfers between family members
Tax and Superannuation
- Capital Gains Tax (CGT) assessments
- SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund) property compliance
Insurance Coverage
Ensure your property is insured for the correct rebuild value.
What’s Included in a House Valuation Report?
A certified valuer will provide a written report that typically includes:
- A full description of the property and land
- On-site inspection notes and photograph
- Analysis of recent comparable property sales
- Details of the valuation method used
- Market commentary and local trends
- Final estimated market value
- Any assumptions, limitations, or special conditions
What Impacts the Value of a House?
Location
- Proximity to transport, schools, shops, and parks
- Suburb appeal and market demand
Condition and Age
- Renovated or well-maintained homes tend to be valued higher
- Structural issues, outdated fixtures, or signs of neglect may reduce value
Land Size and Layout
Larger blocks or properties with development potential (e.g. corner lots) may attract higher values.
Features and Upgrades
Pools, solar panels, modern kitchens, outdoor living areas, or sustainable features.
Market Conditions
Local buyer demand, interest rates, and housing supply all play a role.
How Much Does a House Valuer Cost in Australia?
Typical fees for residential property valuations:
- Standard house valuation: $350 – $600
- Complex or larger properties: $700 – $1,000+
- Urgent or detailed legal-use reports: Additional fees may apply
If you’re refinancing, your lender may organise (and pay for) the valuation directly.
House Valuer vs Real Estate Agent: What’s the Difference?
| Aspect | House Valuer | Real Estate Agent |
| Purpose | Formal valuation for legal/financial use | Market appraisal for listing/sales |
| Certification Required | ✅ Yes (API-accredited) | ❌ No formal valuation licence |
| Legally Recognised | ✅ Yes (used in court, banks, ATO) | ❌ No |
| Bias | Independent and impartial | May be motivated by commission |
Conclusion
A certified house valuer offers more than just a number—they offer an informed, unbiased opinion of your property’s value that can be trusted in high-stakes decisions. Whether you’re planning to sell, borrow, or settle a legal matter, a professional valuation is your best tool for certainty and peace of mind.
Need a house valuer? Choose an experienced local expert who understands the nuances of your market and is fully accredited to provide reliable, legally accepted valuation reports.
