What’s the Difference Between Market Value and Assessed Value

1. Market Value Is What a Buyer Will Pay

Market value is the price your home would likely sell for in today’s market. It’s determined by:

  • Location and neighborhood trends
  • The condition and features of the home
  • Comparable recent sales (comps)

Appraisers, real estate agents, and buyers all use market value as the real-time price tag of your home. This is the number that matters most when buying or selling.

2. Assessed Value Is Used for Property Taxes

Assessed value is set by your local government and is typically used to calculate your annual property taxes. It’s based on:

  • A percentage of market value (called an “assessment ratio”)
  • Adjustments made by the city or county
  • Local government formulas—not the open market

It’s often lower than market value, and if you think your assessed value is too high, you can often appeal it to lower your taxes.

3. Know Both to Be a Smart Buyer (and Homeowner)

✅ Use market value when negotiating price, comparing homes, or applying for a mortgage
✅ Watch assessed value when estimating property taxes or reviewing your escrow accountUnderstanding both helps you plan smarter—whether you’re buying, budgeting, or building equity.

Want to Know What Your Home Is Really Worth—and What You’ll Be Taxed On?

📘 Download our free “First-Time Buyer Game Plan” eBook — includes a worksheet to track assessed vs. market value
💬 Chat live now to ask about appraisals, tax estimates, and negotiating tools
📞 Schedule a call with a Stairway Mortgage advisor to get help with value estimates and property tax planning

At Stairway Mortgage, we give you the tools to buy smarter—
because knowing your numbers is the first step to growing wealth

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