How Much Is My House Worth? A Seller’s Guide from Tim Scheib, Des Moines Real Estate Professional with Real Broker
Understanding your home’s value is the foundation of every successful sale, refinance, or financial plan. If you’re a homeowner in Des Moines wondering, “How much is my house worth?” you’re not alone. It’s a question I answer every day—and one that deserves more than a quick online estimate. Let’s explore how real value is determined, and what you can do to maximize it.
1. Key Factors That Influence Home Value
Your property’s value is driven by a mix of location, size, features, and market conditions:
Location: Neighborhood desirability, access to schools, jobs, parks, and shopping all matter.
Square Footage & Layout: Larger homes generally command higher prices, but smart, usable layouts often outperform sheer size.
Condition & Upgrades: Well-maintained homes with modern upgrades, new appliances, or energy-efficient systems are valued higher.
Comparable Sales (“Comps”): The prices paid for similar nearby homes in the past six months set a strong benchmark.
Lot Size and Curb Appeal: More land, mature trees, great landscaping, and inviting exteriors boost perceived value.
Market Momentum: Are homes selling fast in your area? Multiple-offer environments can drive your sale price up.
2. Online Estimates vs. Local Expertise
Online calculators—such as Zillow or Redfin—give rough figures, but often miss local nuances. Factors like renovations, special features, and recent neighborhood changes influence actual value. As a local agent, I use MLS data, recent comps, and an in-person property review to deliver precise, actionable insights.
3. The Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
The CMA is real estate’s gold standard for determining value. I gather recent sales, active listings, expired/pulled listings, and pending sales for properties similar to yours. By analyzing these, we set a realistic price that matches market expectations—and positions your home to attract strong offers.
4. Appraisals: The Lender’s Perspective
If you’re selling with a mortgage, a licensed appraiser will evaluate your home for the buyer and lender. Appraisers use much of the same data as agents, but balance it with stricter guidelines. Preparing your home—clean, repaired, staged—helps maximize the appraised value.
5. Improvements That Increase Value
Kitchens, baths, flooring, energy updates, and curb appeal consistently increase market value. If you’re considering renovations, reach out for my recommendations—sometimes small changes deliver big returns.
6. Timing Matters
Market fluctuations impact your home’s value. Historically, Des Moines sees stronger demand (and higher prices) in spring and early summer, but well-priced homes attract buyers year-round. Economic shifts and interest rates also affect value—let’s discuss timing that aligns with your goals.
7. Mistakes to Avoid
Overpricing can cause your home to linger with little interest, while underpricing leaves money on the table. Emotional attachment or DIY list prices don’t maximize your outcome. Lean on local expertise for honest, data-driven numbers.
8. How to Get an Accurate Value
Contact me for a free, detailed CMA and property walkthrough
Review recent local sales and trends together
Discuss your home’s unique features—remodels, lot improvements, smart tech
Set a pricing strategy based on current buyer demand
9. Final Thoughts: Your Home’s Worth Is More Than a Number
Value is also about potential—future appreciation, lifestyle, and peace of mind. By partnering together, we ensure you realize every dollar and every benefit when the time to sell or refinance arrives.
Ready to unlock your home’s true value in Des Moines? Let’s schedule an assessment and build your tailored strategy. I’m Tim Scheib, here to provide trusted guidance, transparent advice, and a pathway to your next chapter.