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Valuation Ready

Desktop vs On-Site Property Valuation - Which Do You Need?

Both are independent, signed valuations by a qualified valuer — the difference is how the valuer gathers evidence about the property.

Desktop assessment — from $254
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The valuer works from records: sales evidence, property data, imagery, floor plans, council information and anything you provide (photos, leases, renovation records). No physical visit.

Best for: standard residential property with good data coverage — most CGT evidence (including the 1 July 2027 cost base reset), SMSF annual market-value updates, record-keeping and many estate purposes.

On-site valuation — from $587
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Everything in the desktop pathway plus a physical inspection — internal and external condition, improvements, defects and features that records can miss.

Best for: renovated, unusual or high-value property; acreage and unique locations; contested matters (family law, disputes) where the report may be tested; and any situation where condition materially drives value.

How to choose
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SituationUsual pathway
CGT cost base evidence, typical suburban propertyDesktop
SMSF annual market value updateDesktop
Recently renovated or unusual propertyOn-site
Family law or potentially contested matterOn-site
Deceased estate, standard propertyDesktop (on-site if condition disputed)
Ultra-high-value or commercialSenior / independent firm (quote)

Not sure? Tell us the purpose and the property — we recommend the pathway and confirm a fixed price before you proceed. If a desktop assessment turns out to need an inspection, you only ever step up knowingly.

Common questions
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Is a desktop assessment still ATO-acceptable?
It can be, but it is not a full valuation. Under the API Rules of Professional Conduct a desktop produces an indicative value rather than an IVS-compliant valuation. The ATO's guidance turns on the quality of the process and the evidence, not on a product name, and there is no "ATO-approved" status. Where the amount at stake is large, an on-site valuation is the stronger evidence — we tell you which one we think fits before you commit.
Is a desktop assessment the same as an online estimate?
No. An online estimate is an automated number with no valuer, no methodology statement and no signature — weak evidence. A desktop assessment is professional work by a qualified valuer; it simply doesn't include a site visit.
Can I upgrade from desktop to on-site?
Yes — if the valuer or your adviser believes inspection is needed, you can step up to the on-site pathway. We tell you before any extra cost is incurred.

Related guides: CGT valuations · retrospective valuations.

Get the right valuation pathway

General information only — not tax, financial or legal advice. The signed valuation is provided by a qualified valuer.