Whether you’re buying, selling or gifting a house or flat, knowing its true market value is essential. Lenders typically require a residential property valuation before approving a mortgage. Our RICS-accredited valuation surveyors deliver accurate, reliable insights so you can move forward with confidence.

What Is a Residential Property Valuation?

A residential property valuation establishes the 'market value' of your home, the price a willing buyer and a willing seller would agree on under normal market conditions. These valuations follow the RICS Red Book standards, ensuring consistency, transparency and professional, ethical standards. When you choose a Red Book valuation, you’re getting a report from an RICS-registered valuer who is accountable to a rigorous code of conduct.

What a Valuation Is and What It Isn't

A residential valuation is an evidence-driven price assessment, combining a focused on-site review, local market data, current trends and in-depth local insight, then adjusted qualitatively and quantitatively to uncover the true market value. It reveals what a buyer would reasonably pay today under normal conditions, moving beyond simple price comparisons by blending property-specific observations with broader market intelligence.

However, a valuation is not a substitute for a building survey. It does not catalog every minor defect, provide detailed repair recommendations or uncover hidden issues.

Mortgage Valuations

When you pay for a mortgage valuation, it might feel like you’re buying peace of mind, but this report is crafted exclusively for your lender. Its sole job is to confirm that the mortgage amount is fully secured by your home’s market value. Since the lender, not you, is the surveyor's client, the report’s structure, language and focus cater to bank requirements, and you may never even see it. In short, while you cover the fee, this valuation protects the lender’s interests rather than providing a buyer-oriented assessment.

That’s why it’s crucial to instruct your own independent survey. A dedicated Level 2 or Level 3 Home Survey gives you the homeowner’s perspective, uncovering defects, clarifying maintenance needs and safeguarding your investment. Don’t rely solely on a lender’s valuation; commission a survey tailored to your needs for complete confidence in your decision.

Valuations vs. Estate Agent Appraisals

Estate agent valuation appraisals and RICS residential valuations share a similar objective, assessing property value, but serve different purposes. Estate agents excel at positioning your home to attract buyers and secure a sale, using appraisals as a marketing tool to set a competitive asking price, generate viewings and foster interest. Because their focus is on promoting listings, appraisals can sometimes drift from deeper market realities and may not flag hidden defects. Of course, this isn’t a criticism, estate agents do exactly what they’re hired for, which is driving demand, not performing regulated valuations or detailed condition surveys.

By contrast, an RICS residential valuation is an independent, evidence-led assessment governed by the RICS Red Book standards. The result is a transparent, regulatory-compliant opinion designed to protect your financial interests, whether you’re negotiating purchase terms or securing finance.

Ready to Get Started?

Use our quote engine today to request your RICS residential property valuation. One of our accredited valuers will be in touch within 24 hours to arrange a convenient appointment. Take the guesswork out of your next property decision, book now.

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