Desktop Valuations

Fast, Cost-Effective Valuations for Low-Risk Scenarios

Desktop property valuations provide a fast and cost-effective way to assess property value without the need for a physical inspection.

 

At Propti, we deliver professionally prepared desktop valuations across Australia, suitable for a range of low-risk lending, investment, and advisory purposes.

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This page explains what a desktop valuation is, when it should be used, its limitations, and how it compares to other valuation types.

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What Is a Desktop Valuation?

A desktop valuation is an independent property valuation completed without a physical site inspection.

The valuer assesses the property remotely using verified data sources and market evidence to determine an estimated market value at a specific point in time. Desktop valuations rely on:

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• Recent comparable sales

• Property databases and title information

• Zoning and planning data

• Historical sales records

• Market trends and local conditions

• Aerial imagery and mapping tools

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Because no inspection is conducted, desktop valuations are best suited to lower-risk and information-based use cases.

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When Are Desktop Valuations Used?

Desktop valuations are commonly used in scenarios where speed, cost efficiency, and indicative value are prioritised over maximum accuracy. Typical use cases include:

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• Initial lending or credit assessments

• Refinancing with conservative loan-to-value ratios (LVRs)

• Portfolio and asset reviews

• Internal risk assessments

• Property investment analysis

• Early-stage feasibility reviews

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They are often used by:

• Mortgage brokers

• Private and non-bank lenders

• Property investors

• Accountants and advisors

• Asset managers

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Benefits of Desktop Valuations

Desktop valuations offer several practical advantages:

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• Fast turnaround times
  Ideal for time-sensitive decisions.

• Lower cost
  More affordable than inspection-based valuations.

• No site access required
  Useful where access is restricted or unavailable.

• Efficient for low-risk scenarios
  Suitable where property condition is assumed to be standard.

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Desktop valuations are often the first step before progressing to a short form or full valuation if required.

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Limitations of Desktop Valuations

While desktop valuations are efficient, they have important limitations that must be understood.

Desktop valuations do not account for:

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• Internal condition of the property

• Renovations or upgrades not captured in data

• Structural issues or defects

• Unique features or non-standard improvements

• Current presentation or maintenance issues

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Because of this, desktop valuations are not suitable for:

• High-risk lending

• Legal disputes or court matters

• Family law or estate settlements

• Complex or specialised properties

• High-value transactions

• Development or construction assessments

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Desktop Valuation vs Other Valuation Types

Choosing the correct valuation type is critical.

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Desktop Valuation

• No physical inspection

• Fast and cost-effective

• Indicative market value

• Best for low-risk scenarios

 

Short Form Valuation

• Limited physical inspection

• Higher accuracy

• Suitable for private lending and refinances

 

Full Valuation

• Detailed inspection and reporting

• Maximum accuracy and defensibility

• Required for legal, institutional and complex matters

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If there is uncertainty around risk or property condition, a short form or full valuation may be more appropriate.

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Are Desktop Valuations Accepted by Lenders?

Acceptance of desktop valuations depends on:

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• Lender policy

• Loan-to-value ratio

• Property type

• Risk profile

• Purpose of valuation

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Many private and non-bank lenders accept desktop valuations for lower-risk transactions, while major banks typically require inspection-based reports.

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Propti can help determine whether a desktop valuation is appropriate and acceptable for your specific scenario.

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How Propti Desktop Valuations Work

Our process is simple and efficient:

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1. Provide property details: Address, property type, and valuation purpose.

2. Market analysis: A qualified valuer reviews relevant market data and comparable sales.

3. Valuation assessment: The valuer determines an estimated market value based on available evidence.

4. Report delivery: A professionally prepared valuation report is issued for its intended purpose.

 

All desktop valuations are completed by qualified professionals using recognised valuation methodologies.

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Who Uses Propti Desktop Valuations?

Desktop valuations through Propti are commonly used by:

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• Property investors assessing acquisition opportunities

• Mortgage brokers conducting preliminary assessments

• Private lenders managing risk exposure

• Accountants supporting advisory work

• Property professionals requiring indicative value

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Each valuation is prepared with its end use in mind to ensure it is fit for purpose.

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Desktop Valuations Across Australia

Propti provides desktop valuations across metropolitan and regional Australia, subject to data availability and property type.

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Is a Desktop Valuation Right for You?

A desktop valuation may be suitable if:

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• The property is standard and well-documented

• The transaction is low risk

• Speed and cost are priorities

• A physical inspection is not required

If accuracy, compliance, or defensibility is critical, a short form or full valuation may be more appropriate.

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Our team can guide you through the options.

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Get Started With a Desktop Valuation

If you need a fast and efficient valuation for a low-risk scenario, a desktop valuation may be the right solution.

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Provide your property details and purpose of valuation, and we’ll advise whether a desktop valuation is suitable or if a higher-level report is required.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a desktop property valuation?

A desktop valuation is a property valuation completed without a physical inspection, using market data and comparable sales.

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How accurate is a desktop valuation?

Desktop valuations provide an indicative market value but are less accurate than inspection-based valuations.

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Are desktop valuations accepted by lenders?

Some private and non-bank lenders accept desktop valuations for low-risk scenarios. Acceptance depends on lender policy.

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How long does a desktop valuation take?

Most desktop valuations are completed within one to two business days.

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Can a desktop valuation be upgraded?

Yes. A desktop valuation can often be upgraded to a short form or full valuation if required.