Kotiarvio

Kotiarvio is a Finnish term commonly referring to the professional assessment of a dwelling’s value. It is an estimate of the market value of a home, and may also cover aspects relevant to replacement costs for insurance purposes. Kotiarvio is produced by a qualified real estate valuation professional, such as a certified appraiser or a real estate professional with valuation training. The service is used in various contexts, including negotiating a sale price, applying for a mortgage, refinancing, or determining insurance coverage. It can also support financial planning or tax-related considerations, though it is not a guarantee of a specific sale price or loan amount.

The valuation process typically includes an inspection of the property, collection of data about its features, age, condition, and any renovations, and an analysis of recent sales in the neighborhood. Valuations commonly rely on the sales comparison approach, which compares the subject property with similar recently sold properties and makes adjustments for differences. In some cases, the cost approach or, for income-producing properties, other methods may be used. The resulting report presents an estimated value, the methods and data used, and any uncertainties or limitations.

Professional standards and independence are emphasized in kotiarvio. Valuations are often performed by independent professionals, sometimes contracted by lenders or insurers, and may follow international or national appraisal guidelines. The value returned is a time-bound estimate that can change with market conditions and new information.