Ask neighbors, co-workers and friends if they know of any homes that have sold in the area. The neighbors, co-workers, friends network will prove to be a great asset to you. While asking if they know of prior sales let them know about your plans to sell--they can be your eyes and ears for buyer prospects.
After locating several comparable sales go to the tax office for your county and ask for appraisal printouts on those properties (be sure and get one on your property, too.). This is public information so you should not have trouble getting it. There might be a nominal copying fee. If you are computer-oriented save your steps...it can all be found on the Internet. Try search sites like AltaVista, Yahoo!, Internet Explorer, Hotbot, etc...or call your county and find out if they offer a web site. If using an Internet search engine try typing in the name of your county (or parish) tax office. For example, If you live in Hidalgo County, Texas type: Hidalgo County Appraisal District or Hidalgo County Tax Office. There are also sites that tap into a variety of counties like www.taxnetusa.com where you might find your area easier.
The information you receive will include an assessed or appraised value. This is not the same as the market value, but can be useful in your research. You should be able to find the amount of living area square footage (total square footage less garage, patios, outbuildings, etc). Sometimes this is referred to as “air conditioned space”. Make a note of items you will need to make adjustments for such as swimming pools, fences, sprinkler systems, alarms and such. You will need to either add or subject adjustments from your totals to determine your market value.
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