What is a virtual valuation? Everything you need to know

The valuation of your property is an essential step in selling or letting. It gives you a clear picture of your home’s worth, highlights strengths and concerns, and helps set a realistic asking price.

Traditionally, this required an in-person visit. But when that isn’t always possible or convenient, there’s now another option: the virtual valuation. This allows you to get an expert valuation without anyone setting foot inside your home.

Related: What is comparable evidence when selling a home?

What is a virtual valuation?

A virtual valuation is an online property appraisal carried out by a Parkers valuation specialist. Using photos, videos, and a live video call, you can show your home to an agent who combines what they see with market data and local insight.

With a virtual valuation, you’ll receive:

  • An estimated property value
  • A tailored marketing plan
  • A full valuation pack with comparable sales 
  • A secure online report

Why do a virtual valuation?

A virtual option is ideal if you prefer not to host an in-person visit, whether you need some privacy, have a sensitive pet, or simply want the convenience of a video call.

It’s just as accurate as a physical valuation, but quicker, easier, and stress-free.

What does a virtual valuation involve?

  • Photos and videos: Send clear images of your home’s key areas.
  • Walkthrough: On the call, your specialist will guide you through a live tour using your device’s camera. They may request to see certain areas in better lighting, up close, or with additional details.
  • Follow-up: After the appointment, you’ll receive your full valuation pack, including a price estimate, recent local sales comparisons, and a marketing strategy.

How to get a virtual valuation

Step 1: Select Sell or Let, then enter your address, postcode, and contact details.

Step 2: Pick a convenient date and time for your virtual valuation.

Step 3: Add key property details and upload photos or videos.

Step 4: Choose your preferred contact method.

Step 5: After the call, get your valuation figure, report, and marketing plan.

Related: How To Sell Your Property | House Selling Guide

What do I need for a virtual valuation?

  • A device with a camera – a smartphone or tablet works best.
  • A strong Wi-Fi connection – check your signal beforehand for a smooth call.

Top tips for taking photos or videos of your home

For your estate agent to fully understand your property, you’ll be asked to upload photos and videos as part of the virtual valuation service. Here are some top tips:

  1. Use a smartphone to take pictures or videos for clear, quality shots.
  2. Highlight your home’s key features after a quick tidy-up.
  3. Open curtains and turn on lights to brighten each room.
  4. Film or photograph in landscape for a wider view.
  5. Hold the camera at chest height for balanced proportions.
  6. Stand in a corner to capture as much of the room as possible.
  7. When filming, move slowly from one corner to the other.
  8. Include shots of the front and back of the property.
  9. Cover all areas such as bedrooms, living spaces, and gardens.
  10. Show details that add value, like outdoor space or high-quality finishes.

How we value your home virtually

Our extensive local experience and access to a vast database of historical data allow us to value properties remotely without needing to step inside your home. Here’s how we do it:

Market research

Once you book your virtual valuation, we begin researching comparable evidence. We look at similar properties nearby that are currently on the market and those that have recently sold to give a realistic benchmark for your home’s value.

Buyer demand

We also check our active buyer database. This lets us indicate the likely demand for your property before it even reaches the market, and we can even line up virtual viewings with interested buyers.

Historical data

Our senior property professionals know the local area inside out. In some cases, we may even have visited your home during a previous sale, which helps us form a more informed and confident valuation.

Video consultation

Finally, we meet with you via video call. You’ll walk us through your property using your device’s camera, showing key features and updates. Afterward, we present our research, explain the evidence behind our recommendation, and provide you with a valuation figure.

Related: Top 5 signs you’ve outgrown your current home

How accurate is a virtual valuation?

The accuracy of a virtual valuation depends on the quality of information provided, including clear photos, videos, detailed property descriptions, and a complete view of the home.  

Backed by millions of data points, recent sales evidence, and deep local knowledge, Parkers specialists provide a figure you can trust.

What’s the difference between a virtual and an instant valuation?

  • Virtual valuation – takes place over a video call with a real valuer. You walk them through your home, and they provide a personalised, accurate valuation.
  • Instant valuation – an automatically generated estimate based on algorithms and local data. It’s quick and gives you a ballpark figure, but lacks the detail and accuracy of a virtual call.

Is a virtual valuation free?

Yes. All our valuations ( instant, virtual, and in-person) are completely free. There’s no obligation to sell or let afterwards, so you’re always in control.

More benefits of a virtual valuation

  • Easy scheduling – pick a time that fits your lifestyle.
  • Faster turnaround – from booking to results, everything happens quicker than a traditional visit.
  • Privacy and comfort – prepare your home at your own pace for the virtual walk-through.

Expertise behind every virtual valuation

With extensive local experience and access to a vast database of historical sales data, Parkers can provide accurate property valuations virtually. Even without a physical visit, you’ll get expert insight, comparable evidence, and a clear strategy for selling or letting your home.

Kick-start your property journey with a virtual valuation

There’s no need to delay your property plans. A virtual valuation gives you quick, reliable answers without the stress of arranging in-person visits. It’s simple, flexible, and accurate.

Book your free virtual valuation at a time that suits you, receive a clear and trusted figure, and move forward with complete clarity and confidence – whether you’re ready to sell, let, or simply exploring your next move.

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