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What is a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)?
A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) prepared by a Realtor® is one of the most accurate tools for determining a home’s true market value. By analyzing recent sales, active listings, expired listings, and local market trends, a CMA shows exactly where your property fits within current buyer demand. Because it’s created by a licensed real estate professional who understands neighborhood nuances, pricing strategy, and what buyers are willing to pay right now, a CMA provides a reliable, data-driven foundation for setting the right listing price and maximizing your return.
Understanding Your Home’s Value When Selling
Pricing your home correctly is one of the most important steps in a successful sale. An accurate list price attracts qualified buyers, reduces time on the market, and maximizes your return. Jeff Adamson uses local market data, proven valuation tools, and hands-on experience in Southeastern Connecticut to determine a market-ready home value you can trust.
Find out what your home is worth in today’s market.
1. Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
A Realtor® creates a CMA by reviewing:
- Recently sold homes similar in size, style, location, and condition
- Current homes competing on the market
- Homes that failed to sell (showing the upper limit of buyer tolerance)
This analysis produces a realistic price range based on real-time supply and demand.
Who performs this?
✔ Licensed real estate agents / Realtors®
2. Automated Valuation Models (AVMs)
These are online tools (like Zillow’s Zestimate or MLS-based estimators) that generate a quick estimate using:
- Public property records
- Recent sales data
- Tax assessments
- Computer algorithms
AVMs provide a general ballpark, not a professional valuation. They often lack insight into upgrades, condition, and neighborhood nuances.
Who performs this?
✔ Software algorithms on consumer real estate websites
✔ Broker/MLS automated tools
3. Appraisal by a Licensed Appraiser
A licensed appraiser conducts an in-depth valuation after physically or virtually examining the property. Appraisers evaluate:
- Square footage and layout
- Condition, upgrades, and safety compliance
- Location, schools, and neighborhood appeal
- Comparable recent sales (“comps”)
- Market trends, interest rates, and buyer demand
Appraisals are typically required for buyer financing.
Who performs this?
✔ State-licensed residential real estate appraisers
4. Local Market Knowledge & Expertise
Beyond data, an experienced local Realtor® interprets:
- Buyer behavior in your specific area
- Seasonal selling patterns
- Community amenities and desirability
- Current competition and absorption rates
- Unique property features that add or reduce value
This is one of the most important layers—numbers alone don’t tell the full story.
Who performs this?
✔ Experienced real estate professionals with local insight
5. Seller Input: Condition, Updates & Goals
Homeowners play an essential role by providing details that influence value:
- Improvements and renovations
- Maintenance history
- Energy efficiency upgrades
- Roof, HVAC, and mechanical system age
- Landscaping and exterior condition
Your goals also matter—whether you prefer ultimate price, fastest sale, or a balance.
Who provides this?
✔ The homeowner
6. The Final Pricing Strategy
Once all valuation inputs are reviewed, your agent helps craft the strategic list price, considering:
- Target buyer pool
- Current interest rates
- Competing listings
- Expected appraisal value
- Marketing plan and exposure level
The goal is a price that:
- Maximizes your return
- Attracts multiple interested buyers
- Avoids long market time or underpricing