Short Form Valuations

Inspection-Based Valuations for Greater Accuracy and Confidence

A short form property valuation is a practical middle ground between a desktop valuation and a full valuation. It provides greater accuracy than a no-inspection report while remaining faster and more cost-effective than a comprehensive full valuation.

At Propti, we provide short form valuations across Australia for residential, commercial and selected industrial properties, supporting finance, investment, advisory and transaction requirements where stakeholders need inspection-based confidence.

This page explains what short form valuations are, when they should be used, what’s included, and how they compare to other valuation types.

What Is a Short Form Valuation?

A short form valuation is an inspection-based valuation report prepared by a qualified valuer. It typically includes:

A physical inspection of the property (limited scope compared to a full valuation)
Market analysis based on recent comparable sales
Clear valuation reasoning and methodology
A certified value as of a specific date

Short form valuations are commonly used when parties require more certainty than a desktop valuation can provide, particularly where the property’s condition, improvements, or unique features may influence value.

When Should You Use a Short Form Valuation?

Short form valuations are ideal when you need a reliable valuation outcome without the time and cost of a fully comprehensive report. Common use cases include:

Private and non-bank lending where an inspection is required
Refinancing where lenders want added certainty on condition and marketability
Investment purchases where buyers want an independent assessment
Related-party transactions where a defensible valuation is needed
Business, trust or SMSF property decisions (where appropriate)
Portfolio reviews where inspection-based accuracy is preferred

If there is any uncertainty around internal condition, renovations, or non-standard improvements, a short form valuation is often the most efficient option.

Benefits of Short Form Valuations

Short form valuations are popular because they balance speed, cost and certainty. Key benefits include:

Physical inspection included: Confirms property condition and key features.
More accurate than desktop valuations: Better suited where improvements, layouts or presentation influence value.
Faster and more cost-effective than full valuations: Ideal for deals where timing matters.
Commonly accepted in private lending: Frequently used for moderate-risk scenarios.
Clear valuation rationale: Helps stakeholders understand the evidence behind the value conclusion.

What’s Included in a Propti Short Form Valuation

A Propti short form valuation typically includes:

Physical inspection (as required for the purpose)
Property description and relevant attributes
Local market overview and sales evidence
Comparable sales analysis and adjustments
Valuation methodology and reasoning
Certified market value as at a specific date
Professionally formatted report suitable for the stated purpose

Short form valuations are completed by qualified valuers with experience in local market conditions and valuation standards.

Short Form vs Desktop vs Full Valuations

Choosing the correct valuation type upfront helps avoid delays and rework.

Desktop Valuation

No physical inspection
Faster and lower cost
Suitable for low-risk / preliminary scenarios
Less accurate when condition or improvements matter

Short Form Valuation

Includes inspection
Higher accuracy than desktop
Faster than a full valuation
Suitable for moderate-risk, time-sensitive scenarios

Full Valuation

Detailed inspection + extensive reporting
Highest level of defensibility
Often required for complex, high-value, or legal matters
Longer turnaround and higher cost

If the valuation is for a legal dispute, estate matter, or complex property, a full valuation may be required. If speed and indicative value are the priority, a desktop valuation may be sufficient.

Are Short Form Valuations Accepted by Lenders?

Acceptance depends on:

lender policy
LVR and risk profile
property type and location
intended purpose of the valuation

Short form valuations are widely used in private and non-bank lending because they provide a site-inspected level of confidence without the time and cost burden of a full report.

If you’re unsure what your lender requires, Propti can help you select the correct valuation type before you proceed.

How the Short Form Valuation Process Works

Provide your property details: Address, property type, and purpose of valuation.
Valuer inspection: A qualified valuer inspects the property (scope appropriate for the valuation purpose).
Market analysis: The valuer reviews comparable sales and relevant market evidence.
Report preparation: The valuation conclusion is documented with methodology and supporting data.
Delivery: A professionally formatted valuation report is issued for the stated purpose.

Who Uses Propti Short Form Valuations?

Short form valuations are commonly used by:

Mortgage brokers managing lender requirements
Private and non-bank lenders reducing valuation risk
Property investors seeking an independent value assessment
Accountants and advisors supporting tax and structuring decisions
Buyers agents and property professionals assessing fair market value

Propti ensures the valuation type matches the use case so that the report is fit for purpose.

Short Form Valuations Across Australia

Propti provides short form valuations across Australia, including metropolitan and regional locations (subject to availability and property type). Our network of certified valuers supports consistent quality and professional reporting.

Is a Short Form Valuation Right for You?

A short form valuation may be the right choice if:

You need more accuracy than a desktop valuation
The property’s condition and improvements impact value
A lender requires an inspection-based report
You want a defensible, independent assessment without full valuation cost

If you’re unsure, we’ll guide you through the best option.

Get a Short Form Valuation Quote

Provide the property address and the purpose of valuation, and Propti will match you with the right certified valuer for a short form valuation. Request a Quote or Contact Us to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a short form property valuation?

A short form valuation is an inspection-based valuation report that provides greater accuracy than a desktop valuation without the cost and length of a full valuation.

How long does a short form valuation take?

Most short form valuations are completed within two to four business days depending on property access, type and location.

Is a short form valuation more accurate than a desktop valuation?

Yes. Because a short form valuation includes a physical inspection, it generally provides higher accuracy when condition, presentation or improvements influence value.

Are short form valuations accepted by private lenders?

Many private and non-bank lenders accept short form valuations for moderate-risk scenarios. Acceptance depends on lender policy and deal structure.

Can I upgrade from short form to a full valuation?

In many cases, yes. If requirements change or a lender needs a more comprehensive report, a short form valuation can often be upgraded.

Order Today!