What Your Columbus Home Is Really Worth (And Why You Shouldn’t Trust the Zestimate)

Have you ever peeked at your home’s Zestimate on Zillow and thought, “That can’t be right?”

You’re not alone. Many homeowners in Columbus are surprised, or confused, by the number that pops up online. Sometimes it’s too high, sometimes it feels way too low. And when you’re thinking about selling, that number can start to feel personal. The truth? Your Zestimate is just a rough guess. Let’s talk about how your home’s real value is determined, and why trusting an algorithm might leave money on the table.

What Is a Zestimate, Anyway?

Zillow’s Zestimate is an automated home value estimate based on public data. It pulls info from tax records, previous sales, and nearby listings. Think of it as a robot trying to price your home using incomplete puzzle pieces.

“That can’t be right!” ~What every homeowner thinks when the Zestimate is off

• 🤖 It doesn’t see your kitchen renovation or new roof
• 🏘️ It can’t walk your neighborhood and feel the demand
• 📉 It often uses outdated or mismatched comps

Zillow admits their estimates can be off by 5% or more, even in the best markets. That’s tens of thousands of dollars.

Why Zestimates Are Often Way Off in Columbus

• 📍 Neighborhoods vary block by block. Lewis Center, Worthington, and Westerville homes may sit just streets apart but have very different price points.
• 🛠️ Upgrades matter more than square footage. Zillow can’t see your updated HVAC, finished basement, or custom features.
• 📈 Market shifts are rapid. The Columbus market moves fast, and algorithms can’t keep up with real-time buyer activity.

How a Realtor Determines Market Value

When I help a client price their home, I do something no algorithm can: I see it in person.

Here’s what goes into a real Comparative Market Analysis (CMA):

• 🏡 Comparable sales: size, style, location, condition
• 📊 Active listings competing with yours
• 🔍 Pending homes that show current buyer activity
• 🛠️ Your home’s condition and features
• 📍 Demand trends in your zip code

Real Example: Lewis Center Seller Success

A recent Lewis Center listing had a Zestimate of $450,000. After evaluating condition, upgrades, and the market, I listed it at $485,000.

We received multiple offers and closed at $502,000.

“I almost priced it based on the Zestimate. I’m so glad I didn’t.”

Thinking About Selling? Let’s Talk About Value

Your home is one of your biggest investments. You deserve more than a guess.

I’d be happy to provide a personalized valuation based on real market data, not an algorithm. No pressure, just real info you can use.

👉 Click here to request your custom home value

Or just message me and we’ll take it from there.