Market Analysis

Comparative Market Analysis

A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), or CMA, is how I estimate your home’s current value based on what’s happening in your neighborhood right now. It looks at homes like yours that have recently sold, are under contract, or are currently on the market.

But here’s the thing: real estate is hyper-local. That means even two homes that look similar on paper can have wildly different values—just because they’re on different streets or sides of the neighborhood. One block can make a big difference, and that’s why a CMA isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Some homes are straightforward to price, especially if there have been a lot of recent, similar sales. Others require a deeper dive—a more nuanced approach that factors in unique features, lot orientation, updates, views, and buyer demand.

As Juli Schmidt, Realtor, I don’t just run the numbers—I look at the full picture and give you honest, strategic insight into what your home is worth in today’s market.

Appraisals

How Appraisals Are Different

While a CMA gives you a market-based estimate, an appraisal is a more formal process required by lenders for purchases or refinancing. A licensed appraiser inspects your home and compares it to a few recent sales (typically three), then produces a detailed report.

It’s great for official documentation, but appraisals don’t always reflect the true market value—which is what a buyer is actually willing to pay today. That’s where I come in.

As a Realtor, I help bridge the gap between the backward-looking data and the forward-looking potential. 

Seller’s Market

Pricing Strategy in Today’s Seller’s Market

Right now, we’re in a seller’s market, which means there are more buyers than there are homes for sale. But that doesn’t mean we just throw out a high price and hope for the best.

In fact, the target sale price isn’t always the same as the list price. Sometimes, we’ll strategically price your home a bit lower to create buzz and attract multiple buyers—which can lead to stronger offers, faster timelines, and better terms. Other times, we price high and hold firm, depending on the property, the market, and the buyer pool.

My job is to read the room (aka the market) and position your home perfectly to meet your goals. It’s not just about listing—it’s about launching your home the right way.

Helping Buyers

This Helps My Buyers, Too

This deep valuation work isn’t just for sellers—it’s also how I help my buyer clients. Whether you're house-hunting in Minnetonka, Wayzata, or beyond, I help you evaluate the home you're considering, assess whether it’s priced fairly, and understand how it compares to others in the area.

In a competitive market, knowing how to spot value (and avoid overpaying) is everything—and I’ve got your back.