Category Seller Tips

We’ve all done it — typed in an address on Zillow and instantly scanned that little Zestimate box. Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s tempting to take Zillow’s word for what a home is worth.

But here’s the truth: Zillow is a computer, not a real estate expert. And in Alabama, especially in areas like Birmingham and the surrounding suburbs, Zillow’s estimates can be way off — sometimes by tens of thousands of dollars.

What Is a Zestimate?

Zillow’s Zestimate is an automated valuation model (AVM) based on public data, recent sales, tax records, and whatever scraps the algorithm can gather. Sounds fancy — but it doesn’t walk through your house, look at your finishes, or know what’s going on in your specific market.

In other words: it’s a starting point, not an appraisal.

Why Zillow Is Often Wrong in Alabama

1. It Lacks Context
   Zillow sees square footage and bed/bath counts — but it can’t account for the condition of your roof, your upgrades, or the fact that the house next door sold low because it needed a total gut job.
2. Neighborhood Nuances Matter
   Zillow doesn’t know if your home backs up to a quiet cul-de-sac or a busy street. It doesn’t understand that one side of the subdivision is more desirable than the other, or that a view adds major value.
3. It Can’t Replace Local Expertise
   From Homewood bungalows to new builds in Chelsea to rural homes with acreage, Alabama’s market is full of nuance that only a boots-on-the-ground Realtor can truly price.

Should You Ignore Zillow Completely?

Not necessarily. It’s fine to use Zillow as a general ballpark, but never rely on it for making pricing decisions. A smart seller uses real comps, hyper-local trends, and a professional who actually sees and understands the property.

That’s where I come in.

What Your Home Is Really Worth

As a full-time Alabama Realtor, I run custom market analyses based on actual sold comps, condition, upgrades, and what buyers are paying right now — not what an algorithm guessed based on incomplete info.

If you’re serious about selling — or just curious what your home could realistically go for in today’s market — let’s chat. I’ll give it to you straight, no fluff, no guesswork.

Email: mandy@mandysellsbham.com

Phone: 205.332.1978

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Mandy Williams, Alabama Realtor
Keller Williams Homewood

Selling a home can be a challenge under normal circumstances — but when the property is part of an estate and tied up in probate, things get a little more complicated. If you’ve found yourself tasked with selling a probate property in Alabama, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to navigate it blind.

I’ve sold dozens of homes in probate right here in Alabama, and I can tell you: the process is smoother (and a lot less stressful) when you have the right professional guiding the way. Let’s break down the essentials.

First — What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process where a deceased person’s estate is properly distributed to heirs and designated beneficiaries and any debt is paid off. When a property is involved, the court has to authorize the sale before anything can move forward — and that’s where most sellers hit their first roadblock.

Why You Need an Experienced Real Estate Agent for Probate Sales

Selling a probate property isn’t the same as putting a regular home on the market. There are court timelines, legal documents, and extra approvals involved. If your agent doesn’t understand the process, your deal can stall or fall apart altogether.

That’s why it’s critical to work with a real estate agent who knows probate inside and out. I’ve helped dozens of families in Alabama navigate these sales, and I know how to handle the unique challenges — from helping you get the court’s green light, to finding buyers who understand the process, to making sure your closing isn’t delayed by red tape.

Common Challenges When Selling Probate Properties

• Legal Hurdles: You’ll need court approval before the sale can be finalized, and that takes paperwork, patience, and persistence.
• Property Condition: Many probate homes are inherited “as-is” and might need repairs or cleaning before listing — and sometimes the estate doesn’t have the budget.
• Emotional Stress: Selling a loved one’s home isn’t just business — it’s personal. It helps to have an agent who can handle the process professionally while you focus on your family.
• Pricing and Marketing: Probate homes can have a narrower pool of buyers, especially if the property needs updates. You need an agent who knows how to price the home right and market it effectively to attract serious buyers.

Bottom Line

Probate property sales in Alabama don’t have to be overwhelming. The key is working with someone who’s been down this road many times before and can guide you through the process step by step.

If you’ve inherited a home and aren’t sure where to start, reach out. I’m here to help you handle the legal, emotional, and financial sides of selling — and get the best outcome for your family.

Need an agent who knows how to navigate probate in Alabama? Call us today at 205.332.1978