Desktop Property Valuations
Sovereign Valuations is experienced in undertaking desktop property valuations for an array of purposes. A desktop valuation is not to be misconstrued for a formal valuation, however it can be a practical solution where physical access to a property is not possible and the instructing party understands the inherent risks of the valuer not physically inspecting the property.
A desktop property valuation is commonly referred to as a ‘desktop assessment’, as it does not satisfy the professional standards required by the Australian Property Institute (API) and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) for a formal valuation.
Assisting with the accuracy of desktop assessments is the increasing amount of data readily available, which includes Google Street View imagery, aerial mapping, online video walkthroughs and photographs, Council data and online floorplans. Depending upon the instruction, the valuer can also rely upon property information supplied by the instructing party.
We are available to discuss your property matter and can advise if a desktop assessment is a viable option, or whether a formal property valuation is appropriate.
FAQs
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A desktop property valuation is a written assessment of property value performed without a physical inspection of the property. The valuer analyses property records, recent comparable sales, planning data, aerial imagery and market conditions to determine an indicative value opinion.
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Desktop valuations are regularly undertaken for capital gains tax (CGT) calculations, SMSF compliance, stamp duty assessments, mortgage refinancing, internal accounting, financial reporting and other purposes where a formal inspection valuation is not required or possible.
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Desktop valuations start from AUD $450 + GST for standard residential properties. Fees vary based on property type, location and complexity. Sovereign Valuations provides fixed-fee quotes within one business day of enquiry.
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Standard desktop valuations are delivered within 24–48 business hours of receiving the required property information. Urgent turnarounds may be available on request.
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Yes. SMSF trustees must report fund assets at market value each year, and an independent valuation is expected when there has been a significant event — for example, acquisition or disposal involving a related party, commencement of a pension, an in-specie transfer, or
where the auditor cannot otherwise verify market value. A desktop valuation prepared by a Certified Practising Valuer (CPV) is widely accepted by SMSF auditors for these purposes, provided it reflects market value at the relevant date and is supported by objective evidence.
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A formal valuation involves a physical inspection of the property by the valuer, whereas a desktop valuation is conducted remotely using available data. Formal valuations are often required for litigious or high-risk valuation matters, as well as other purposes where an inspection is mandated by the relevant authority or standard.
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Typically, we require the property address, the purpose of the valuation, the required valuation date (current or retrospective), and any relevant property details such as recent renovation works or tenancy information. Our team will confirm requirements at the time of enquiry.
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Yes. We regularly provide retrospective valuations as at a historical date for CGT, deceased estate, and other purposes. We will advise if historical data limitations affect the reliability of the assessment.