CalculateRealEstateROI

BRRRR · Guide

Calculating After-Repair Value (ARV)

ARV drives every BRRRR number — get it wrong and the rest of the model fails.

Reviewed by Keiron Brown, Founder & Editor, CalculateRealEstateROI · Educational estimates only — not investment, financial, tax, or legal advice

Key takeaways

  • Use sold comps only — never listings.
  • 5+ comps, last 90 days, 1 mile, same bed/bath.
  • Adjust for condition, lot, garage, finishes.
  • Confirm with two agents independently.
  • Provide appraiser a comp packet.

Core concepts

Comp selection

Recency > proximity > size > condition.

Adjustments

+/- per bedroom, per sqft, per garage stall, per amenity.

Appraiser influence

Comp packet + walkthrough notes increases accuracy.

Step-by-step framework

  1. 1Pull MLS sold list.
  2. 2Filter to 5 best.
  3. 3Apply line-item adjustments.
  4. 4Cross-check with 2 agent BPOs.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Using listings.
  • Skipping condition adjustments.
  • Ignoring lot or garage variance.

Frequently asked questions

Zillow ARV reliable?

No — algorithm lag and condition-blind.

Appraiser disagreement?

File reconsideration with comp packet.

Comp distance limit?

1 mile urban, 5 miles rural.

Condition adjustment magnitude?

5–20% typical.

Action checklist

  • 5 sold comps.
  • Adjustments applied.
  • Two BPOs.
  • Appraiser comp packet.

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