It’s common to hear homeowners say, “If my neighbour sold their home for this price, mine should be worth the same.” But the truth is more complex. Even homes that sit next to each other can have very different values.
In this blog, we explain why your home may not be worth the same as your neighbour’s and the key factors that make property valuation far from a one-size-fits-all process.
Understanding Why Property Values Differ
Even when two properties share a street, a building, or even a wall, their actual value is defined by many factors that aren’t always visible at first glance. Size, condition, orientation, legal status, and even the timing of the sale all contribute to a home’s market value.
Knowing these differences helps homeowners understand the real price of their property—and avoid misleading comparisons.
Key Factors That Influence Your Home’s Value
1. Size, Layout, and Usable Space
Two homes might have similar square metres, but not the same usable space. A better distribution, more natural light, or a functional layout can make a home feel—and be—worth more. Features like balconies, storage rooms, or higher ceilings add value that your neighbour’s property may not offer.
2. Condition and Renovations
A home that has been consistently maintained or recently renovated will naturally be worth more. Buyers pay attention to:
- The age of installations
- Kitchen and bathroom upgrades
- Quality of materials
- General upkeep
If your neighbour renovated five years ago and your home hasn’t been updated in a decade, valuation differences are expected.
3. Floor Level, Light, Noise, and Orientation
These factors create some of the biggest pricing gaps—even within the same building.
For example:
- Higher floors usually receive more light and noise than lower ones.
- South-facing homes tend to be brighter and more appealing.
- A flat facing a quiet street may be more valuable than one facing heavy traffic.
Just these differences can add or subtract thousands of euros from a valuation.
4. Legal Status and Documentation
Documentation is often overlooked, but it significantly impacts value.
A property with:
- An up-to-date habitability certificate
- A valid energy efficiency label
- No outstanding legal issues
- A favourable technical inspection
…is more attractive—and therefore more valuable.
If your neighbour has all documents in order and you still need updates or certifications, your property may be valued lower.
5. Micro-Location: Yes, a Few Metres Matter
Micro-location is one of the most underestimated elements of valuation. Even within the same street, small differences create meaningful changes in value, such as:
- Being closer to public transport
- Facing a park instead of a busy road
- Noise levels during daytime or weekends
- Access to sunlight depending on building position
Sometimes, moving just 20 metres in either direction places two homes in completely different micro-environments.
6. Market Timing and Demand
Market timing can change everything.
Your neighbour may have sold during a peak in demand, while your sale coincides with:
- Rising interest rates
- Lower buyer activity
- More competing listings
- Seasonal dips
Two identical homes sold months apart can obtain very different prices simply due to market conditions.
How to Understand the Real Price of Your Home
Professional Valuation Matters
Online valuation tools are useful for getting a general price range, but they cannot capture the unique features of your property. A professional valuation considers:
- Real condition
- Light and orientation
- Micro-location
- Current market behaviour
- Documentation status
This is the most reliable way to determine what your home is truly worth.
Small Improvements Can Make a Big Difference
If you’re considering selling, simple updates can increase value:
- Fresh paint
- Minor repairs
- Improving lighting
- Decluttering spaces
- Updating documentation
- Home staging to highlight strengths
Buyers form opinions quickly—sometimes within minutes. Small efforts can have a significant impact on their perception.
Conclusion: Every Home Has Its Own Value
It may be tempting to compare your home directly with your neighbour’s, but property valuation is a complex process shaped by elements that aren’t always visible at first glance.
Understanding why your home may not be worth the same as your neighbour’s helps you make informed decisions—and ensures you enter the market with realistic expectations.
If you want to know the real value of your home, Maonlof can guide you with a personalized and professional valuation.
