Atlanta, GA · Member since 2017 · 35 posts · 3 votes
We renovated the basement and turned it from a cellar of horrors to a livable decent few rooms (1,150 more square footage!), and we added a bathroom. I didn't file with the city so when I updated it on zillow, seems to not make a difference in their estimate. Is there a way to 'audit' zillow or other sites to get an updated price?
Real Estate Agent · Atlanta, GA · Member since 2020 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
1y
@Scott R., you could hire an appraiser to assess the property and compile a report to obtain an accurate evaluation. Otherwise, connect and consult with a real estate agent who can provide similar comps to justify the ARV. Simply relying on Zillow's algorithm is not advised. What do you intend to do with the property? Is it your primary residence?
Real Estate Consultant · Roswell, GA · Member since 2023 · 50 posts · 26 votes
1y
@Scott R. a Zestimate is based on public county records. If you've updated your home and added square footage, then it wouldn't change based on what you input in Zillow. IF you plan on staying at the property for a while, "the tax man doesn't necessarily need to know" is how some owners think about it. If you plan on selling it in the future, it might be best to do that right before you sell it so your taxes don't go up while you're living there.
Real Estate Agent · Los Angeles, CA · Member since 2018 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
1y
If you are doing business based on a Zestimate, you have a big problem. Zillow is notorious for being inaccurate. It doesn't account for condition, views, or really any amenities that could affect the value.
Basically what I'm saying is who cares what Zillow says? Plus if I'm reading your post correctly, if you did it without permits, depending on your market it may not have much value anyways.