18 January 2026
Frequently asked questions about property valuation
FAQ — Property Valuation: The 5 Key Questions
Property valuation is a crucial step in any real estate project, whether you’re thinking about selling, refinancing, or simply wanting to know your home’s current value.
At Équipe Sirois Simard, we often hear the same questions from our clients. Here are a few answers to help clarify things.
1) How much is my home worth on today’s market (not the municipal assessment)?
Market value is based on recent comparable sales, current demand, and competition in your area. The municipal assessment is mainly used for taxation and doesn’t always reflect the actual price a property can sell for.
2) What impacts value the most—location, condition, renovations… and in what order?
The most influential factors are generally: location, comparable properties, overall condition/maintenance, size and functionality, and then upgrades (renovations, finishes, energy efficiency). A well-maintained, “move-in ready” home often performs better.
3) Which renovations truly increase value—and which aren’t worth the cost?
The best returns often come from: painting, flooring, lighting, kitchen/bathroom updates (targeted improvements), and major maintenance items (roof, windows, heating). On the other hand, highly customized or overly expensive renovations don’t always pay back 100%.
4) How does my price compare to properties that sold recently AND those currently for sale?
Sold listings confirm real market value. Active listings are your direct competition. A strong pricing strategy considers both to attract buyers and maximize your chances of receiving solid offers.
5) What’s the difference between a broker’s estimate, a certified appraisal, and the final sale price?
- Broker’s estimate: market analysis to determine a price range and an effective marketing strategy.
- Certified appraisal: an official report (often required by the bank) based on standardized methods.
- Final sale price: the result of demand, conditions, and negotiation.
Need a personalized valuation?
We can provide a comparative market analysis to determine your property’s current value in Gatineau and build the best strategy.
👉 Book an appointment with us today
Talk soon,
Équipe Sirois Simard
Your trusted real estate team in Gatineau