This image features GG Sfreddo alongside a graphic showing a magnifying glass over homes and a bold “Zillow Zestimate” report, emphasizing the importance of accurate, expert-led home valuation over automated estimates.

Why Your Zestimate Might Be Way Off—And What You Should Do Instead

July 03, 2025•2 min read

Let’s be real—Zillow is great for window shopping. You scroll through homes, check out photos, and glance at that little Zestimate box to get an idea of what a home might be worth.

But here’s the thing: that number? It could be thousands off.

And if you’re a serious seller or buyer in Northern Virginia, that can cost you—big time.

What Zillow’s Zestimate Gets Wrong

A person fills out a home estimate form on a clipboard while standing in a kitchen, suggesting an in-person property evaluation or appraisal.

Algorithms don’t walk through your house. They don’t talk to buyers, see your upgrades, or understand your neighborhood vibe.

Let me break it down:

Remodeled kitchen in 2023? Zillow didn’t notice.
Premium corner lot with privacy fence and mature trees? Doesn’t register.
HOA covers landscaping and exterior upkeep? Algorithm doesn’t care.
The same model next door sold for $75K more last month? Still not reflected.

Zillow’s Zestimate is a guess. It’s not tailored. It’s not local. It’s not strategic.

Why It Matters in Northern Virginia

A "For Sale" sign stands prominently in front of two similar suburban homes on a neatly maintained residential street.

I’ve seen homes in Prince William County, Fairfax, and Loudoun that looked identical on paper—but the sale prices varied wildly. Why? Because condition, timing, and local demand play a huge role that Zillow can’t calculate.

If you’re a move-up buyer, relying on a Zestimate could lead you to overprice your current home—or underestimate your next one.

If you’re a downsizing seller, you might undervalue your home and leave money on the table.

And if you’re a cost-conscious seller, basing your budget on a robot’s guess? That’s not the move.

So What Should You Do?

A real estate agent in a suit points to property images on a clipboard during a consultation, while a client sits across the table next to a laptop and a miniature house model.

You need someone who actually knows the market. Someone who’s walked the streets, sold in your zip code, and knows how to spot value others miss.

That’s where I come in.

I’ll give you a real-time, boots-on-the-ground home value—based on:
✔️ Recent local sales
✔️ Condition and upgrades
✔️ Buyer demand in your area
✔️ What your home could actually sell for right now

🎯 Want Real Numbers—Not a Robot Guess?

Don’t price your biggest investment on an algorithm.
Call me at 571-601-2232 and I’ll break down exactly what your home is worth in today’s market.

Or head to MoveMeInVA.com to request your custom home value report.

Because when it comes to pricing, you don’t need a Zestimate—you need a strategist.

GG Sfreddo

GG Sfreddo is a highly experienced Real Estate broker with over 20 years in the industry, recognized as a top agent known for innovative strategies to help clients buy and sell properties seamlessly. With expertise in market trends, negotiation, and personalized service, GG has built a reputation for excellence, earning consistent 5-star reviews and a loyal base of satisfied customers. Dedicated to delivering results with integrity and professionalism, GG ensures every client’s real estate journey is successful and stress-free.

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