Short answer
The time required to complete a property valuation depends on the property, the purpose of the valuation, access for inspection, the information provided and the complexity of the market evidence.
For a standard residential property, the process commonly involves arranging access, inspecting the property, researching comparable sales, analysing the evidence and preparing the report.
Some valuations may be completed relatively quickly where the property is straightforward, access is available, instructions are clear and the evidence is adequate.
Northbourne Valuers confirms expected timing after considering the property, purpose, inspection access, valuation date and report requirements.
Why this matters
Timing matters because valuations are often required for deadlines.
A solicitor may need a valuation for a Family Law matter. An accountant may need a valuation for Capital Gains Tax. A conveyancer may need evidence for Stamp Duty. Executors may need a date-of-death valuation for a deceased estate.
The report should not be rushed at the expense of evidence and reasoning. A proper valuation requires the valuer to understand the instructions, inspect or assess the property as required, review market evidence and prepare a report suitable for the stated purpose.
What affects the timeframe
Several factors can affect how long the valuation takes.
- The type of property
- The purpose of the valuation
- Whether an internal inspection is required
- Availability of access
- Whether the valuation is current or retrospective
- Availability of plans, leases, contracts or other documents
- The quality and quantity of comparable sales evidence
- Whether the property is unusual or specialised
- Whether there are defects, renovations or incomplete works
- Whether the report is for a formal legal, taxation or revenue purpose
- Whether additional clarification is required from the client, solicitor or accountant
A simple current market valuation may be more straightforward than a retrospective valuation, Family Law report or valuation involving unusual property interests.
Typical valuation workflow
The timing usually follows the valuation process.
- First, the valuer confirms the instructions and purpose.
- Second, access is arranged where an inspection is required.
- Third, the property is inspected or assessed according to the agreed scope.
- Fourth, the valuer researches and analyses market evidence.
- Fifth, the valuation report is prepared, checked and issued.
Delays often occur before or after the inspection, rather than during the inspection itself. For example, access may not be available, documents may be missing, or additional information may be needed to clarify the valuation date or purpose.
Why some valuations take longer
Some valuation work is more complex.
Retrospective valuations can take longer because the valuer needs to analyse the market as at a past date. The evidence may be older, less complete or harder to verify.
Family Law valuations may require additional care because both parties, their legal representatives or the Court may rely on the report.
CGT and Stamp Duty valuations may require careful attention to the relevant valuation date and supporting evidence.
Commercial property valuations may take longer where leases, rental evidence, outgoings, tenant fitout, incentives or income analysis are relevant.
A property with unusual improvements, development potential, access limitations or incomplete information may also require more time.
Common misunderstandings
The inspection is not the whole valuation.
The inspection is only one part of the process. The analysis and report preparation usually take more time than the physical inspection.
A quick report is not always a better report.
Speed is useful, but the report still needs to be supported by evidence and reasoning.
A desktop assessment is not always suitable.
A desktop assessment may be appropriate for some lower-risk or preliminary purposes, but it may not be suitable for formal legal, taxation or revenue matters.
A valuation cannot always be completed without documents.
The valuer may need instructions, plans, leases, contracts, title information, renovation details or other documents depending on the purpose of the valuation.
A retrospective valuation is not just a current valuation with an old date.
The valuer needs to consider evidence and market conditions relevant to the historical valuation date.
How clients can help avoid delay
Clients can help the process by providing clear instructions early.
Useful information may include:
- The valuation purpose
- The required valuation date
- Property address
- Contact details for inspection access
- Title or ownership details
- Recent plans or building information
- Lease details if the property is rented
- Contracts or transfer documents where relevant
- Renovation or building work information
- Solicitor or accountant instructions, if applicable
Clear instructions reduce the risk of the report being prepared for the wrong purpose or wrong date.
Related glossary
- Scope of Work
- Date of Valuation
- Date of Inspection
- Internal Inspection
- Desktop Assessment
- Retrospective Valuation
- Reliance
Related articles
- The Valuation Process
- What happens during a property inspection?
- What documents should I provide to a valuer?
- Who can rely on a valuation report?
- Can a valuation be updated after it is completed?
- Why does the purpose of valuation matter?
Related services
Prepared by:
Tigran Amiyants, Certified Practising Valuer (CPV), Managing Director, Northbourne Valuers.
Last reviewed:
July 2026.
General information note:
This page provides general information only and does not constitute valuation, legal, taxation or financial advice. Every valuation depends on the specific property, purpose, valuation date, evidence, assumptions and instructions.