Valuation: Unlocking the real value of real estate

Real estate is commonly one of the major assets held by individuals or business entities. Like any asset, real estate has a value which is used by stakeholders, whether they’re owners, sellers, potential buyers, developers, investors, or government entities. This value is determined through valuation.

Valuation or appraisal is the process of getting the value of a property as of a specific date for a specific purpose. The common basis of value is market value, which is defined by the International Valuation Standards (2020) as “the estimated amount for which an asset or liability should exchange on the valuation date between a willing buyer and a willing seller in an arm’s length transaction, after proper marketing and where the parties had each acted knowledgeably, prudently and without compulsion.” In simple terms, it is an estimate of the price that the property can likely be sold for, wherein the buyer and seller are in the transaction of their own free will and they are both well-informed about all aspects of the transaction and the property. Of course, anyone can assume a price on their property as they see fit, whether it’s based on their initial purchase price, additional costs on construction, renovations, or they can attribute some additional perceived special value. However, that will not necessarily be equal to market value since it will likely not be a balanced or unbiased view of the property value. Property valuation should be conducted by a qualified and licensed valuer to make sure that the market value is determined objectively and competently. Valuers or appraisers in the Philippines are duly licensed by the Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC), and they undergo continuous education to keep them abreast with the methods and standards of valuation.

Valuers prepare valuation reports for different purposes, generally for sales, financing, recording/reporting or regulatory compliance, investment, insurance, or expropriation reference purposes.

Sales: Since real estate involves a significant value, buyers and sellers alike want to make sure that they’re getting a fair price for a property. A valuation report is prepared to establish an objective value for a property, which can then be the basis for negotiation in the transaction. For buyers, they can choose property options that align with their budget.

Investment: To formulate informed business decisions, investors need a valuation report which will help them understand the dynamics of the property, highlight any potential risks, and help them determine their business strategies.

Financing: Financial institutions need an official report that determines the value of a property which will be the collateral for a loan. The valuation report will be a key input for them to mitigate the risks associated with lending.

Recording/reporting or regulatory compliance: Valuation reports are prepared for financial reporting purposes or regulatory compliance. The regulatory body requires the owner to secure a valuation report as a basis for their submission.

Insurance: Valuation reports are crucial for insurance companies to estimate the insurance coverage and premiums of properties. The replacement cost of a property is assessed so the insurance company can ensure the policyholder has adequate coverage for unforeseen damages or losses.

Expropriation: The state has the power of eminent domain where they take private property for public use, and in exchange give the owner just compensation. The basis of just compensation is an official valuation report.

Property valuation is a vital process that needs to be undertaken to empower decision-makers in making informed decisions covering real estate. When you need a valuation report, you want to be sure that the valuer is qualified, competent, and has an unbiased view to deliver your property’s real value. While you can engage the services of any licensed appraiser, the more prudent choice would be to go with licensed appraisers in a company with a proven third-party stamp of approval.

Leechiu Property Consultants, Inc. (LPC) is one of the 25 companies listed with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas as an Acceptable Appraisal Company and likewise accredited by the Securities and Exchange Commission. It is also accredited by various banks and financing institutions as a third-party appraiser. LPC has a highly experienced team of appraisers with an average of 15 years of valuation experience. It covers a wide range of properties, from residential, commercial, retail, industrial, agricultural, institutional, hotel, leisure, manufacturing and plant facilities, machinery and equipment, transportation equipment, and even furniture and fixtures. LPC caters to both local and international clients and ensure its models and reports are at par with global standards.

Reach out to us and we will unlock the real value of your property!

The author is the associate director and head of the Valuation team of Leechiu Property Consultants, Inc. (LPC), the country’s premier real estate advisory firm. It commits to deliver strategic real estate solutions to its esteemed clients and partners through its expertise in Tenant and Landlord Representation, Investment Sales, General Brokerage, Research and Consultancy, and Property Valuation

For more information about Leechiu Property Consultants, please visit www.leechiu.com. For media inquiries or further information, please contact Mawhi Steley, Director, Marketing and Communications, [email protected] | 0917 129 1650