A Market Analysis Setting the right price is an important first step in getting a home sold. Sellers often wonder if they should spend $200 to $400 for a professional appraisal of their property before placing it on the market. A professional appraiser’s opinion of a property’s market value is based on the recent sales of similar homes. Different appraisers could come up with different numbers. Even if all of them agreed on a value, there is no guarantee that you would receive that amount for your property. An alternative to a professional appraisal is to ask a professional Realtor for a written market analysis of your property. This analysis will include information about recent home sales in your neighborhood, as well as how those homes compare to yours. Realtors may provide this service with no charge or obligation. If you are still unsure of the value of your home, you may wish to pay for an appraisal.