import { Section, Divider, Callout, Emphasis, LinkButton } from "@/app/components/blog"

If you’re buying or selling a home, figuring out what a property is truly worth can feel overwhelming. One of the fastest ways to start is by using a listing website like Zillow to find comparable homes, or “comps.” Getting this right can save you thousands and prevent overpaying—or underpricing—your home.

A comp is a recently sold property similar to yours in size, features, and location. Comps give you a realistic idea of market value based on actual sales rather than listing prices. Remember: homeowners often love their own homes, but not every feature adds equal value. Be realistic about upgrades like remodeled kitchens, bathrooms, or unique amenities.

Start by setting your search to homes within one mile of your property. Then filter listings to match your home’s key characteristics:

Similar square footage
Similar lot size
Similar number of bedrooms and bathrooms
Similar amenities (exclude homes with pools, garages, or other features you don’t have)

Focus on recently sold homes—ideally in the last 3–6 months—to reflect the current market. Create a log of 2–5 solid comps that closely resemble your home. Track sale price, square footage, and any unique features.

{[ { name: "Comp 1", price: 350000, sqft: 1800, features: ["Updated Kitchen"] }, { name: "Comp 2", price: 365000, sqft: 1900, features: [] }, { name: "Comp 3", price: 340000, sqft: 1750, features: ["New Roof"] }, ].map((comp) => (

(e.currentTarget.style.transform = "translateY(-4px)")} onMouseLeave={(e) => (e.currentTarget.style.transform = "translateY(0)")} >

{comp.name}

Sold Price: ${comp.price.toLocaleString()}

Square Footage: {comp.sqft} sq ft

Price/Sq Ft: ${(comp.price / comp.sqft).toFixed(0)}

{comp.features.length > 0 && (

{comp.features.map((f) => ( {f} ))}

)}

))}

Even small differences—like an updated kitchen or a new roof—can justify a higher price per square foot. Be objective, but don’t undervalue upgrades.

### 1. Narrow Your Range Use your comps to define a realistic price range, not a single “magic number.” ### 2. Track Market Changes Check Zillow regularly; homes that stay on the market long may indicate pricing is too high. ### 3. Adjust for Features If your home has a unique feature not in your comps, factor that into your final pricing. Pricing too high or too low can stall a sale. Comps are your anchor, but market conditions matter too.

Open Zillow, set your filters carefully, and start building your comp log. The more thorough your research, the more confident you’ll feel in pricing or evaluating a property. Browse Recently Sold Homes on Zillow