Appraisal or valuation: what's the difference and what do you need?

An appraisal and a valuation are similar, but serve different purposes. We explain the difference and help you choose what suits your situation.

# Appraisal or valuation: what's the difference and what do you need? Many people use the terms "appraisal" and "valuation" interchangeably, but they are truly different products with different purposes, costs, and legal value. ## Valuation (free, indicative) An valuation is an **indicative price estimate** by a real estate agent. Purpose: to know where you stand if you are considering selling. - **Costs**: usually free (as an acquisition for a sales assignment) - **Duration**: 30-60 minute home visit + report within a few days - **Legal value**: none — not usable for mortgage or tax purposes - **When**: you are exploring selling or want to know your assets ## Appraisal (paid, official) An appraisal is an **official report** prepared by a certified appraiser (NRVT register), in accordance with NWWI or Taxateurs Unie validation. - **Costs**: € 400 - € 700 (depending on region and property type) - **Duration**: 1-2 hour home visit + report within 5-10 business days - **Legal value**: yes — accepted by banks, tax authorities, court - **When**: mortgage, NHG (National Mortgage Guarantee), inheritance, divorce, tax declaration ## When to choose which? | Situation | What do you need? | |---|---| | Exploring selling | Valuation | | Applying for a mortgage | Appraisal (validated) | | WOZ (Valuation of Immovable Property) objection | Appraisal or recent sale figure | | Dividing an inheritance | Appraisal | | Divorce | Appraisal (often by both parties) | | Adjusting insurance | Reconstruction value report (separate product) | ## Important nuances - A valuation from your prospective selling agent is usually free, but it is aimed at securing the sales assignment. If necessary, get a second opinion. - An appraisal must be done by an **independent** appraiser — not the agent selling your home. - For NHG and most mortgages, an **NWWI-validated** appraisal is required. ## What do we do? We provide free valuations for those considering selling. For a validated appraisal, we refer you to independent NRVT appraisers in our region. [Request a free valuation](/waardebepaling).