Melbourne’s property market is known for its variety—from inner-city apartments in Southbank to sprawling homes in Doncaster. Whether you’re preparing to sell, applying for finance, settling a legal matter, or needing to meet tax obligations, a certified property valuation Melbourne gives you the factual market insight required to move forward with confidence.
In this guide, you’ll learn what property valuations involve, who performs them, when to get one, and how they’re used across residential, commercial, and legal sectors.
What Is a Property Valuation?
A property valuation is a legally recognised, written report provided by a Certified Practising Valuer (CPV) that outlines the estimated market value of a property at a specific point in time.
Unlike a real estate appraisal—which is an informal estimate—property valuations are:
- Legally valid for court or tax use
- Accepted by banks, solicitors, and the ATO
- Independent and unbiased
- Based on comparable sales, market data, and physical inspection
When Do You Need a Property Valuation in Melbourne?
You may require a valuation in any of the following scenarios:
Buying or Selling a Property
Ensure your price is aligned with market trends and avoid overpaying or underselling.
Refinancing or Applying for a Loan
Lenders rely on certified valuations to determine your property’s loan-to-value ratio (LVR).
Legal Proceedings
Divorce settlements, probate cases, and family law matters all require formal valuations.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) or Stamp Duty
Determine accurate tax liabilities for property transfers, sales, or inheritance.
Insurance or SMSF Reporting
Calculate rebuild costs or value real estate held within a super fund portfolio.
Types of Property Valuations Offered in Melbourne
Property valuers in Melbourne provide services across:
- Residential properties (houses, units, apartments)
- Commercial properties (offices, retail, warehousing)
- Industrial facilities
- Vacant land and development sites
- Rural lifestyle blocks on the metropolitan fringe
- Mixed-use and investment properties
- Properties held in trusts or SMSFs
The Valuation Process Explained
Here’s how a standard Melbourne property valuation works:
Initial Brief & Purpose Clarification
The valuer confirms why the report is needed (e.g. legal use, refinance, SMSF, etc.).
On-Site Property Inspection
Key elements assessed include:
- Land size, layout, and zoning
- Building structure, design, and condition
- Renovations or extensions
- Fixtures, fittings, and overall presentation
- Access, location, and proximity to amenities
Market Data Analysis
The valuer researches recent comparable sales in your suburb and adjusts for:
- Property size and land use
- Finishes and property condition
- Local buyer demand and seasonal trends
Valuation Report Delivery
The final report includes:
- Property overview and valuation purpose
- Photos and site details
- Market commentary and comparable sales
- Final value estimate with notes on assumptions or limitations
What Affects Property Valuations in Melbourne?
Melbourne’s real estate market is shaped by a range of dynamic factors:
| Factor | Impact on Value |
| Suburb Location | Distance from CBD, access to transport, school zones |
| Market Trends | Auction clearance rates, interest rates, and buyer demand |
| Property Features | Pools, outdoor areas, energy efficiency upgrades |
| Zoning and Development | Potential for subdivision or multi-residential development |
| Legal Considerations | Easements, heritage overlays, or planning restrictions |
What Does a Property Valuation Cost in Melbourne?
| Valuation Type | Approximate Fee (AUD) |
| Residential (standard) | $400 – $700 |
| Commercial or industrial | $1,200 – $3,500+ |
| SMSF, CGT, or family law | $500 – $950 |
| Urgent or legal-use reports | May include extra fees |
Some banks and legal services may cover the cost of your valuation depending on your situation.
Valuations vs Appraisals: Know the Difference
| Aspect | Certified Valuation | Real Estate Appraisal |
| Legal Validity | ✅ Accepted by courts, banks, and the ATO | ❌ Not suitable for official/legal use |
| Prepared By | Certified Practising Valuer (API) | Real estate agent |
| Objectivity | Independent and unbiased | May be influenced by sales potential |
| Format | Detailed written report | Informal verbal or estimate-based feedback |
Why Choose a Local Melbourne Property Valuer?
Melbourne’s real estate market varies by suburb, street, and even housing type. A local valuer with deep knowledge of areas like Richmond, Footscray, Glen Waverley, or Brunswick ensures you receive:
- Accurate insights into local buyer demand
- Suburb-specific knowledge of zoning and development overlays
- Reliable data on comparable sales and local growth
- Reports tailored for court, tax, lending, or planning use
Conclusion: Make Informed Decisions With a Certified Valuation
A certified property valuation in Melbourne provides clarity, protects your financial interests, and ensures you meet all legal and regulatory obligations. Don’t rely on guesswork when it comes to one of your biggest assets—trust the professionals who understand Melbourne’s property landscape.