Module 5: Comping & Valuation

ARV Calculation Methodology

Turn your comp data into a precise After Repair Value estimate

3 Methods to Calculate ARV

1. Simple Average

Add all adjusted comp values and divide by the number of comps

Best for:

When all your comps are similar quality and you have 5+ good comps

2. Weighted Average

Give more weight to the most similar or recent comps

Best for:

When 1-2 comps are clearly superior matches to your subject property

3. Range Analysis

Look at the high and low range, eliminate outliers, pick conservative estimate

Best for:

When comp values vary widely or market is uncertain

Real-World Example

Subject Property: 3 bed / 2 bath, 1,500 SF, built 1995, needs full renovation

We found 5 comps and adjusted them. Here are the adjusted values:

Comp 1

$215,000

0.3 mi away
Sold 45 days ago

Comp 2

$222,000

0.5 mi away
Sold 30 days ago

Comp 3

$218,000

0.4 mi away
Sold 60 days ago

Comp 4

$205,000

0.8 mi away
Sold 90 days ago

Comp 5

$230,000

0.2 mi away
Sold 20 days ago

Simple Average Method

($215K + $222K + $218K + $205K + $230K) ÷ 5 = $218,000

Straightforward but treats all comps equally

Weighted Average Method

Comp 5 is closest and most recent, so we give it 40% weight. Comp 2 gets 30%. Others get 10% each.

($230K × 40%) + ($222K × 30%) + ($215K × 10%) + ($218K × 10%) + ($205K × 10%)

= $92K + $66.6K + $21.5K + $21.8K + $20.5K = $222,400

More accurate by prioritizing best comps

Range Analysis Method

Range: $205K (low) to $230K (high) = $25K spread

Comp 4 at $205K is an outlier (oldest sale, furthest away). Remove it.

New range: $215K to $230K. Take conservative position at lower-mid range.

$218,000 - $220,000

Most conservative approach

Final ARV Decision

Based on all three methods, we'd choose: $220,000 ARV

This is conservative (below the weighted average) but supported by multiple comps. Safe for making an offer.

Pro Tips for ARV Accuracy

Always Be Conservative

When in doubt, go lower. Overestimating ARV is the #1 reason wholesalers lose money.

Prioritize Recent Comps

A comp from 30 days ago is worth more than one from 120 days ago, especially in changing markets.

Verify Comp Condition

Look at listing photos. Make sure "renovated" comps truly match the level of renovation you're planning.

Account for Market Trends

If the market is cooling, adjust downward. If heating up, you might go slightly higher.