How Much Is My Home Really Worth?

You see home prices everywhere—online or when your neighbor puts their house up for sale. But asking how much a house is worth is a bit like asking how much a car is worth. It depends on a lot of things. Are we talking about a sedan or a truck, a Cadillac or a Kia?

Most people start by typing their address into popular websites like Zillow or Realtor.com. These sites can give you a quick idea of your home’s value, but they don’t always tell the full story. What really matters is what another buyer is willing to pay for your home. To figure that out, we need to ask a few more questions.

What Makes Your Home Unique?

Real estate professionals often talk about "comps," which is short for "comparables." These are homes like yours that have recently sold nearby. No two homes are exactly alike, so we look for houses with similar features.

Here’s what we’ll want to know:

• The Basics:
  • How big is your home?
  • How many bedrooms and bathrooms does it have?
  • Is it new, older, or recently updated?
• Special Features:
  • Does it have hardwood floors or carpet?
  • Is the kitchen modern or original?
  • What about the yard—big, small, or somewhere in between?
• Location, Location, Location:
  • Is your home on a quiet street or a busy one?
  • How close is it to schools, parks, or shops?

All of these details help paint a picture of what makes your home special.

Why Timing Matters

The housing market is always changing, so when your neighbors sold their home—even just a few months ago—things might have been different. Right now, in December 2024, home sales are moving faster than they have in years. Prices are climbing, with the national median home price up 4.7% from last year to $406,100. That’s the highest it’s been in a while! (AP News)

But what’s happening nationally might not tell the whole story for your neighborhood. A local expert can help you understand what’s going on in your area.

More Than Just a Number

Websites like Zillow are a good place to start, but they don’t know everything about your home. They can’t see the upgrades you’ve made, the care you’ve put into your property, or how much your neighborhood has changed.

That’s why working with a real estate professional can make all the difference. They’ll take the time to look at your home, understand your market, and give you a number that truly reflects its value.

If you’re ready to take that next step, resources like the National Association of Realtors or local real estate offices can connect you with someone who knows your area.

What’s Next?

Figuring out your home’s value is just the first step. Deciding to sell is a big deal, and it’s okay to have questions.

Here’s what you can do now:

1. Learn About Your Market:
   Check out recent home sales near you or use tools like Redfin’s Market Data to get a sense of the trends.
2. Get a Professional Opinion:
   A local agent or appraiser can help you get a clearer picture of what your home is worth.
3. Talk It Through:
   Selling a home isn’t just about numbers—it’s about what’s next for you and your family.

We’re Here to Help

At Frontdoor, we make selling your home as easy and stress-free as possible. No robots, no apps—just real people who are ready to listen and help.

If you’re wondering what your home might be worth or you’re thinking about selling, give us a call. We’d love to help you figure out the next step.