Difference in Market Value and Agreement Value

When it comes to property transactions, there are two values that are important to understand: market value and agreement value. While these two values may seem similar, there are key differences between them that can affect the outcome of a transaction.

Market value is the estimated worth of a property based on its current condition, location, and other factors that affect its value. It is typically determined by a professional appraiser who examines the property and compares it to other similar properties in the area that have recently sold. Market value is an objective measure that helps establish a fair price for a property in the current market.

Agreement value, on the other hand, is the price that is agreed upon between the buyer and the seller. It may or may not reflect the market value of the property. Sometimes, the agreement value may be higher than the market value, especially if the buyer is particularly interested in the property or if there are multiple offers on the table. In other cases, the agreement value may be lower than the market value, if the seller is motivated to sell quickly.

It is important to note that the market value and agreement value can have different impacts depending on the situation. For example, if you are a buyer in a competitive market, you may need to offer an agreement value that is higher than the market value in order to secure the property. On the other hand, if you are a seller in a slow market, you may need to accept an agreement value that is lower than the market value to attract buyers.

Another key difference between market value and agreement value is that market value is typically used for tax purposes, while agreement value is used for legal contracts and loan agreements. For example, when you are applying for a mortgage, the lender will typically use the lower of the two values to determine the amount of the loan.

In some cases, the market value and agreement value may be the same. This is often the case in a balanced market where there are enough buyers and sellers to establish a fair price for a property. However, in many cases, the two values will be different, and it is important to understand the implications of both when buying or selling a property.

In conclusion, while market value and agreement value may seem similar, they are distinct values that can have different impacts on property transactions. Understanding the difference between the two and how they are used can help you make informed decisions when buying or selling a property. If you are unsure about the market value or agreement value of a property, it may be helpful to consult with a professional appraiser or real estate agent to get a better understanding of the property`s worth.