Both property valuers and real estate agents deal with property, but their roles are very different.
What Does a Property Valuer Do?
A property valuer is an independent, licensed professional who provides accurate property value assessments.
- Objective & Unbiased Reports – No sales influence
- Legal Recognition – Valuations used for banks, courts, and tax offices
- Comprehensive Property Analysis – Market trends, comparable sales, and location factors
When to Hire a Property Valuer:
- For mortgage approvals and refinancing
- When settling legal matters (divorce, deceased estates, tax)
- For investment analysis and rental yield assessments
What Does a Real Estate Agent Do?
A real estate agent focuses on marketing, selling, and negotiating property transactions.
- Sales-Focused – Works on commission from property sales
- Appraisals vs Valuations – Can estimate property prices but not provide legally recognised valuations
- Market Positioning – Helps sellers attract buyers through advertising and promotion
When to Hire a Real Estate Agent:
- If you are selling a property and need marketing assistance
- To help negotiate property prices with potential buyers
- To get an estimate of how much your property could sell for
Key Differences Between a Property Valuer and a Real Estate Agent
| Feature | Property Valuer | Real Estate Agent |
| Role | Determines accurate property value | Markets & sells properties |
| Independence | 100% unbiased & independent | Works on commission |
| Legal Recognition | Recognised for banking, legal & tax purposes | Not authorised for formal valuations |
| Fees & Payment | Fixed valuation fee | Commission-based earnings |
Conclusion
While both property valuers and real estate agents play crucial roles in the Adelaide property market, their functions are very different. For legal, investment, and financial matters, always hire a certified property valuer.