Property valuer for your home: what do they do and do you need one?

A property valuer for your home determines, in an objective way, how much your property is worth on the current market. That sounds straightforward, but a thorough process lies behind any such valuation. Whether you want to sell, are dealing with an inheritance, or are simply curious about the value of your property, the right valuation is the starting point.

What does a property valuer actually do?

A property valuer - also referred to as a real-estate expert or valuation specialist - carries out a detailed analysis of your home. To do this, they examine several factors: the location, the surface area, the year of construction, the state of maintenance, the EPC certificate, and recent comparable transactions in the area.

In Belgium, two types of valuers are most commonly used. The first is the sworn or court-appointed valuer, whose report carries legal weight. The second is the estate agent with valuation experience, who produces a market-value assessment with a view to achieving a smooth sale. For a standard residential sale, the second option is sufficient in most cases.

The end result is a valuation report or an advisory value. That document describes the methodology, the comparable properties used, and the final value. A good valuer also explains why your property is worth more or less than a comparable home in the same street.

When do you need a property valuer?

There are several situations in which a professional valuation is far from unnecessary.

• Selling your home: a realistic asking price increases the chances of a quick sale at the best possible price. Asking too much puts buyers off; asking too little costs you money.
• Inheritance or estate: when someone passes away, the tax authorities need to know the value of any real estate. A sworn valuer then provides an official report.
• Divorce or dissolution of a cohabitation agreement: when jointly owned property is being divided, a neutral valuation is indispensable.
• Mortgage loan: banks generally send their own valuer before granting credit. That valuation protects the bank, not necessarily you as the owner.
• Renovation plans: if you want to know whether a renovation will increase the value of your home, you can have a valuation carried out before and after.

For most sellers, the smartest approach is a combination of a free valuation by an estate agent and, where circumstances require it, a sworn expert. Through our free valuation tool you can quickly get a first indication.

What does a property valuation cost in Belgium?

The price of a valuation depends on the type and complexity of the assignment.

In 2026, a sworn valuer typically charges between 300 and 700 euros for a standard property. For more complex properties, multi-family dwellings, or large villas, that figure can rise quickly. Some notary offices work with fixed rates for estate matters.

An estate agent who wants to sell your property will normally offer the valuation free of charge. That is their way of getting to know you and securing a sales mandate. This approach is entirely legitimate, as long as the agent values your property honestly and in line with the market. An agent who deliberately overvalues a property just to win the mandate will not do you any favours in the longer term.

Would you like to compare several valuers without having to search yourself? Compare estate agents for free via IMV and receive up to three independent valuations from IPI-recognised agents in your area.

How does a property valuation work, step by step?

A professional valuation follows a set process, even if the level of detail varies depending on the purpose.

1. Intake: the valuer requests basic information, such as the address, the type of property, the habitable surface area, and any known defects.
2. Site visit: they visit the property and inspect all rooms, the garden, the cellar, the roof, and the technical installations.
3. Market analysis: the valuer compares your property with recent sales in the area. Databases such as the notarial barometer and REALO are often used as a reference.
4. Valuation: on the basis of all that data, they propose a value. A sworn expert follows up with a formal written report; an estate agent typically provides a presentation or meeting summary.
5. Advice: a good valuer will also indicate what you could do to increase the value before the sale - think minor repairs or energy-efficiency improvements.

Valuer versus estate agent: what is the difference?

Many people use the terms interchangeably, but there is an important distinction. An estate agent guides the entire sales process, from valuation through to signing of the deed. A valuer stops at the value assessment.

In practice, many IPI-recognised estate agents are also well equipped to carry out a reliable market valuation. They combine local market knowledge with objective data, making them the most practical choice for most sellers.

Would you like to know which agents are active in your municipality and what price they suggest? Use our comparison tool to quickly and without obligation place several options side by side. You will receive up to three proposals from recognised local agents.

Tips to get the most out of your property valuation

A valuation is only as good as the information you provide. Make sure you have the following documents to hand during the site visit: the EPC certificate, the floor plans of the property, any permits for building works, and the most recent invoices for maintenance of the heating system or the roof.

Tidy the property before the visit - not to mislead the valuer, but to give an accurate impression of its condition. A cluttered home can sometimes lead to a lower estimate, simply because defects are more visible.

Finally, always ask for a written justification of the value. A verbal estimate carries little weight if you later want to negotiate or provide documentation.

Frequently asked questions about property valuers

Ready to have your home valued?

A good valuation lays the foundation for a successful sale. Whether you opt for a sworn expert or a recognised estate agent, it always comes down to the same things: local knowledge, current market data, and honest advice. IMV puts you in touch, free of charge, with up to three IPI-recognised estate agents in your municipality. Compare agents and request your valuation today - completely free and with no obligation.