Use of Market Analysis

Accuracy of comparative market analyses depends on the skill of the real estate agent who prepares it. However, I’ve seen professional appraisals that are far off the eventual sales price of the home.

The big advantage of comparative market analyses is that they are free; appraisals cost several hundred dollars without any assurance they are more accurate. Also, the home seller should get at least threecomparative market analyses before listing with the best agent.

A professional appraisal is a good double-check against a comparativemarket analysis. But the appraisal is only as good as the appraiser’sskill.

Robert J. Bruss’ new report, “How to Know When to Refinance YourHome,” is available for $4 from Robert Bruss, 251 Park Road, Burlingame,CA 94010. Letters and comments to Bruss, a San Francisco-area lawyer,author and real estate broker, may be sent to P.O. Box 280038, SanFrancisco, CA 94128.