A +33% change in value just because you "improved" your algorithm? Translation: you publish guesses.

Profile picture for ThedaBarret
The Zestimate for my property increased by 33% as a result of this "improvement". In a decreasing market!  This is absolute proof that Zestimate is nothing more than a wild guess. Anyone who relies on these numbers is insane.
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July 27 2011 - Bellflower
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Answers (2)

Profile picture for SoCal_Engr
@ ThedaBarret...

You're right. Zestimates are a "best guess", based on an algorithm and available data. And, anyone would be crazy to take a Zestimate as gospel.

But, CMAs are also "best guesses", and the value of "best" is based on the experience and capability of the REA generating the CMA. And, if the REA has any conflicting motives, those could skew the CMA (intentional or otherwise).

And, an appraisal is really an arms-length guess at value, but focused on just one house vice trying to shoehorn all houses into one algorithm.

It's really just a matter of perspective. They all have their inherent limitations, but value when used in context.
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July 27 2011
Hi ThedaBaret,

Here is some information about our Zestimate Improvements.

This link right here will show you how we get our Zestimate data and we don't just take a wild guess.

I hope this answers your questions.  Have a wonderful day. 

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July 27 2011
 

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