How to best comp properties?

Question

Hey everybody,

I'm curious how y'all comp properties when you are looking for deals. The problem I'm having with Zillow is that certain states don't display information on the property's actual sale price so it's hard to comp things since I can't simply go of what properties are listed for. What's the easiest and best way to get this information?

thanks for the help!

Payton Haight · Answer

Hi Fabio, since Texas is a non-disclosure state, meaning sales prices are not published, your best bet is probably going to be working with a real estate agent with MLS access.

Casey Oleynikov · Answer

Hi Fabio,

I see you are in Texas.  I am a realtor in Virginia and I can say having the MLS is so helpful!  I would recommend finding a realtor in the specific area you are targeting and have them pull up the data for you.  I sort by Property condition first if I am looking for a rehab property. I then sort by specific neighborhood that does show the past 180 day closed sale price for similar properties in the surrounding area.

Are you looking for turn key ready that is already waiting for a tenant or you would like to rehab a property?

Dan H. · Answer

I am not in Texas so do not know how these tools work there but the first 2 sources I use for valuations is 1) Property Hub 2) Penny Mac home valuation.  Other valuations Redfin and Zillow.

Property Hub and Penny Mac both include the comps.  This implies you can easily manually eliminate inappropriate comps to derive an even more accurate valuation.

Good luck

Terrance Teague · Answer

Hi Fabio,

Great question!

Here are a few ways I've seen that can get you better comp data:

MLS Access- If you’re an agent or work with one, the MLS is hands-down the best source for accurate sold prices and property details.

PropStream / Privy / PropertyRadar- These are paid tools that pull public records and MLS data where available. Super helpful if you’re running comps often.

County Appraisal District / Public Records- Some counties post sale prices through the appraisal district websites (though not always 100% reliable in non-disclosure states).

Title Companies- In some areas, a title rep can help you pull comps from their system if you’re a serious buyer or planning to close deals through them.

Hope this helps, good luck!

Caleb Brown · Answer

Having a go to agent run comps would be ideal. Network and find a solid one. Be upfront with what you are needing so you don't waste their time

Fabio Cattolico · Answer

@Payton Haight that was my concern since I'm not ready to buy but want to keep analyzing and see if something great comes up. In that case I could probably make something work

How to best comp properties?

Most Popular Reply