How to Find Out How Much a House Sold For
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Richard Haddad Managing EditorClose
Richard Haddad Managing EditorRichard Haddad is the managing editor of HomeLight.com. He works with an experienced content team that oversees the company’s blog featuring in-depth articles about the home buying and selling process, homeownership news, home care and design tips, and related real estate trends. Previously, he served as an editor and content producer for World Company, Gannett, and Western News & Info, where he also served as news director and director of internet operations.
At HomeLight, our vision is a world where every real estate transaction is simple, certain, and satisfying. Therefore, we promote strict editorial integrity in each of our posts.
Curiosity about the sale price of a house is common, whether you’re in the market to buy, considering selling your home, or just keeping an eye on neighborhood trends. In this post, we’ll share how to find out how much a house sold for.
When is it helpful to know a home’s sale price?
- Negotiating offers: Knowing the sale price of comparable homes can empower you during offer negotiations, ensuring you’re in line with current market values.
- Setting listing prices: For sellers, comparing the sale prices of nearby homes helps in setting a competitive and realistic listing price for your property.
- Researching affordability: If you’re buying, understanding the sale prices in your desired area can help assess what’s financially feasible for you.
- Gauging property value growth: Homeowners interested in their property’s appreciation over time can use sale prices of similar homes as a benchmark.
- Fulfilling curiosity: Sometimes, you might just be curious about the sale price of a particular house, whether it’s one you’ve admired or are simply curious about.
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How can I find out how much a house sold for?
Discovering the sale price of a house is easier than ever, thanks to a wealth of online resources and tools at your disposal. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply satisfy your curiosity, here’s how to start your search:
1. Search real estate websites
One of the most straightforward methods to find out how much a house sold for is by using online real estate platforms. These websites aggregate sale prices, property details, and historical transaction data, making it easier for users to conduct thorough research. Here’s how you can use these platforms:
- Step 1: Enter the address: Most real estate websites have a search function where you can enter the address of the property you’re interested in.
- Step 2: Filter results: Some sites allow you to filter results to show only recently sold properties. This can help narrow down your search to the most relevant listings.
- Step 3: Review the property details: Once you find the property, these platforms will often provide a detailed history, including the sale price, date of sale, and sometimes even price comparisons with similar properties in the area.
Examples of websites to use include Zillow, Trulia, Homes.com, and Realtor.com. Each site has its unique interface and may offer different information, so it’s a good idea to check multiple sources to get a comprehensive view of the property’s sale history.
Below is a screenshot illustrating how a Zillow property information page can show you the sold price and other nearby recently sold home prices.
Are online sold prices accurate?
The accuracy of sold prices listed online can vary based on how frequently the website updates its data and where it sources this information from. Although these platforms strive for precision, there can occasionally be discrepancies due to delays in recording recent sales or errors in data entry. It’s wise to verify the sale price across multiple sites. When accuracy is especially important, cross-reference the price with public records or consult a real estate professional.
2. Put the home address in Google
Another effective method to find out how much a house sold for is by conducting a simple Google search. Type the full address of the property into the search bar to possibly uncover a wealth of information:
- Recent sales data: If the property has been sold recently, you’re likely to find the sale price listed on real estate websites, as well as possibly in news articles or real estate blog posts.
- Ownership history: Similar to researching property ownership, this search can reveal public records of past sale prices and ownership changes over time.
- Additional property details: Google searches can also lead to information beyond sale prices, such as property taxes, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and other significant details about the property.
3. Check with the county tax assessor
To uncover a home’s sale price, another reliable source is the county tax assessor’s office. Many counties have digitized their records, allowing you to access property tax information online through their official website.
This online search typically requires the property’s address or the owner’s name and can provide details such as the assessed value, property taxes, and sometimes the last sale price.
If your county’s records are not available online, you may need to visit the tax assessor’s office in person.
4. Title search at the county records office
A more detailed method to find out a house’s sale price is by conducting a title search at the county records office.
This search provides a comprehensive history of the property, including an “abstract of title,” which is a summary of the property’s ownership history, including sales prices and dates.
To conduct a title search, visit the county records or county clerk’s office where property records are kept.
Public Records Online Directory
For those who prefer online research, the Public Records Online Directory at publicrecords.netronline.com could be a helpful resource. This portal provides links to the websites of tax assessors, treasurers, and recorders’ offices across the U.S., where you can access public records over the Internet.
5. Ask a top local Realtor
One of the most effective and reliable methods to find out how much a house sold for is to ask a local Realtor. Realtors have access to the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a database where properties are listed for sale, including detailed transaction histories and the most accurate, up-to-date sale prices.
The MLS is a powerful tool with features that are exclusively available to real estate professionals.
Why consult a Realtor?
- Accuracy and access: Realtors can provide the most accurate and comprehensive sale data directly from the MLS.
- Expertise: A seasoned agent can offer insights and advice on the local market, helping you understand the significance of the sale prices you’re researching.
- Consultation is usually free: Engaging with a Realtor for information on sale prices often comes without a charge, and there’s no obligation to proceed with any transactions.
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How to check recently sold homes nearby
To get a broader perspective on the real estate market in your immediate area, consider asking your Realtor for a comparative market analysis (CMA). A CMA is a detailed report that compares your home (or a home you’re interested in) to similar homes nearby that have recently sold.
This analysis takes into account various factors such as location, size, condition, and features of the homes to provide an accurate comparison. Many real estate agents are willing to provide a CMA for free.
Benefits of a CMA include:
- Market insight: Gain a clear understanding of the current market conditions and how your home or a potential purchase compares to similar properties in terms of sale price.
- Pricing strategy: If you’re selling, a CMA can help you set a competitive listing price. If you’re buying, it can guide you in making a fair offer.
- Informed decisions: Armed with detailed information on recent sales, you can make more informed decisions in any real estate transaction.
Ready to find out how much homes in your area are selling for?
HomeLight can connect you with a trusted top agent in your area who can provide expert insights into how much homes are selling for in your community. Our network of more than 28,000 experienced professionals is ready to provide you with the information and guidance you need, whether you’re considering a real estate transaction now or in the future.
Header Illustration Source: (Base photo by Max Bottinger/ Unsplash)
