ST Forum : An indicative valuation isn't the final word

12 Feb 2011,
An indicative valuation isn't the final word

TO START with, 'indicative valuation' is a term coined to reflect the indicative market value, which should not be interpreted as the proper valuation of a property ('Indicative valuations are a vital tool' by Ms Monika Fischer; Jan 26).

The aim of valuation or appraisal is to determine the market value of a particular interest in a property at a point in time for a specific purpose. Valuation is an opinion arrived at logically using established techniques and methodologies.

Ms Fischer expressed her concern that she obtained four 'indicative valuations' of the same property ranging from $3.2 million to $4 million.

This is to be expected as an 'indicative valuation' is carried out without any field inspection, detailed research and analysis.

While Ms Fischer finds that 'indicative valuations' are useful, they must not be relied upon for one's property investment decisions. The institute maintains that any form of endorsement by valuers on the figures stated as 'indicative valuations' (before proper valuations are carried out) is not a subscribed valuation practice.

Evelyn Chang (Ms)
Executive Director
Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers