Understanding a Distinction Between “Market Value” and “Market Price” in Real Estate.

Market Value is an estimation. It’s the most probable price a property should bring in a competitive and open market under all conditions requisite to a fair sale.

It assumes:

  • Willing and knowledgeable buyers and sellers.
  • An arm’s-length transaction (no undue influence).
  • Reasonable exposure to the market.

Purpose:

  • It aims to determine the underlying worth of a property.
  • It provides an objective assessment based on market data and analysis.

Market Price is the actual amount a property sells for in a specific transaction. It can be influenced by various factors that may not reflect the true market value, such as:

  • Urgent need to sell.
  • A particularly motivated buyer.
  • Unique circumstances of the transaction.
  • Negotiation skills.

Variability:

  • Market price can fluctuate significantly, even for similar properties in the same area.

Why They Differ.

Subjectivity vs. Objectivity:

  • Market value is an appraiser’s opinion based on analysis.
  • The market price is the result of a specific negotiation.

Market Conditions.

  • Market value seeks to reflect typical market conditions.
  • Market price can be affected by short-term or unusual market fluctuations.

Individual Circumstances.

  • Market value disregards the unique circumstances of individual buyers or sellers.
  • The market price directly reflects those circumstances.

In essence.

  • Market value is what a property should be worth.
  • The market price is what a property actually sold for.

Therefore, while market price can be an indicator of market value, it’s not always a perfect match. A well-conducted valuation aims to provide a reliable estimate of market value, even when market prices vary

Andrew Kato

Andrew P. Kato is a Real Estate Consultant based in Dar es Salaam, a Fully Registered and Licensed Valuer by Valuers Registration Board of Tanzania and member of the Institute of Asset Management of UK.
Share on