Why you should consider a Pre-Listing Appraisal

Thinking about selling your home? Before you stick that “For Sale” sign in the yard, there’s one powerful step that can help set you up for a smoother, more confident sale: a pre-listing appraisal.

Here at Legends Valuation Services, we are seeing a high demand for pre-listing appraisals in the Atlanta MSA area. Properties are sitting on the market longer, receiving less tour/information requests, and are often times being over priced (resulting in much higher days on market and holding costs to the owner).

While most people associate appraisals with buyers and lenders, sellers can benefit just as much—if not more—by getting an appraisal done before the home even hits the market.

1. Price It Right the First Time - One of the biggest challenges in real estate is pricing. Overprice, and your home could sit on the market with little interest. Underprice, and you risk leaving money on the table. A pre-listing appraisal gives you an unbiased, professional opinion of value based on current market data. That means no guessing, no emotional pricing, just clarity and confidence.

2. Gain a Negotiation Edge- Buyers often use the appraisal as a bargaining chip. But if you already have an appraisal in hand, it can help support your asking price and show buyers that you’ve done your homework. This can be especially useful in markets where pricing is competitive or buyers are trying to negotiate below market value.

3. Speed Up the Selling Process- Having a recent appraisal on hand can prevent surprises later in the deal. If you accept an offer and the buyer’s lender orders their own appraisal that comes in lower, it can derail the transaction. Starting with a realistic, appraiser-supported price helps minimize that risk.

4. Show Transparency and Build Trust- Providing a pre-listing appraisal up front can help build trust with potential buyers. It shows that you’re serious, informed, and open about the property’s value. For some buyers, that level of transparency can be reassuring—and even a deciding factor.

5. Help Set Expectations - A pre-listing appraisal is especially helpful if you’re selling a unique property, in an area with limited comps, or after making major upgrades. It gives both you and your agent a clear idea of how your property fits into the current market and helps guide your pricing and marketing strategy accordingly.

Impact on Sale Speed and Price

Studies and industry insights suggest that homes priced accurately from the start tend to sell faster and closer to the asking price. For instance, properties that are priced appropriately based on solid appraisal data not only sell closer to their listing price but also faster. This avoids the common pitfalls of undervaluing your home, leaving money on the table, or overpricing, which can lead to your property lingering on the market .

A pre-listing appraisal is a relatively small investment that can save you time, reduce stress, and help you sell smarter. Whether you’re navigating a hot market or preparing for a competitive one, it pays to know your home’s true value before the offers roll in.

Thinking of selling? Reach out to schedule your pre-listing appraisal today.