Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) are transforming how brokers evaluate properties, offering faster, more accurate, and data-driven insights. These tools analyze property features, market trends, and historical sales data to improve decision-making. Here's a quick overview of the top AVM tools for commercial real estate:
- ATTOM's AVM: Multi-model approach, hyperlocal precision, and real-time updates.
- CoreLogic Total Home ValueX: Single-model strategy with advanced AI and risk assessments.
- ClearAVM by Clear Capital: AI-powered, lending-grade AVM with confidence scoring and hourly updates.
- Plotzy: AI-driven property research with zoning intelligence and owner information.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Key Features | Pricing Model | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATTOM's AVM | Multi-model, real-time updates, APIs | Custom pricing | 99% of U.S. |
| CoreLogic THVx | AI-driven, risk analysis, nationwide data | Subscription-based | 99.9% of U.S. |
| ClearAVM | Confidence scoring, hourly updates | Pay-per-use option | 95% of U.S. |
| Plotzy | Zoning insights, owner contact info | $65–$200/month | Nationwide |
AVMs simplify property valuation, reduce error margins, and streamline workflows. Whether you’re managing portfolios or evaluating investments, these tools are essential for staying competitive in commercial real estate.
AVM: Real Estate Automated Valuation Model - Is It Accurate?
1. ATTOM's AVM
ATTOM's Automated Valuation Model (AVM) is built on one of the largest property databases in the U.S., covering 99% of the population across all 50 states. It processes data from over 155 million property assessments and 430 million transactions across 3,140 counties .
What makes ATTOM's AVM stand out is its multi-model approach. By leveraging multiple valuation models, it selects the most accurate method for each geographic area .
"ATTOM's AVMs were designed to produce the most reliable and accurate value estimates in the market. They can help build confidence with clients, close deals more cost effectively and give your business a leg up." - Jennifer Von Pohlmann, Director of Content and PR, ATTOM Data Solutions
Key Features of ATTOM's AVM
- Hyperlocal Precision: Advanced geocoding and GIS tools identify comparable properties within specific neighborhoods .
- Confidence Scoring: Each property is assigned a confidence score, offering transparency into the reliability of the valuation .
- Real-Time Updates: Daily updates ensure valuations reflect the latest sales data and market trends .
These features drive its accuracy, with 70% of valuations falling within 10% of actual sale prices and 85% within 20% .
Flexible Access Options
ATTOM's AVM is designed for easy integration and accessibility, offering:
- ATTOM Cloud
- AI-Ready Solutions
- Property Data APIs
- Bulk Data Licensing
These tools allow brokers to turn detailed property data into actionable insights quickly. ATTOM also provides market reports and local analytics tools, helping professionals create impactful client presentations and improve their marketing strategies with data-backed insights .
How ATTOM's AVM Works
The platform follows a four-step process to deliver accurate valuations:
- Identify comparable properties.
- Use multiple models to estimate value.
- Assign a confidence score to each valuation.
- Conduct routine accuracy tests.
This streamlined process, combined with its robust data, makes ATTOM's AVM a go-to solution for market analysis.
2. CoreLogic Total Home ValueX
Building on ATTOM's multi-model approach, CoreLogic's Total Home ValueX (THVx) simplifies property valuations with a streamlined single-model strategy. It provides consistent valuations for over 99.9% of U.S. properties, backed by data spanning more than 50 years .
Advanced Technology Integration
THVx uses machine learning, network graph technology, and cloud analytics to deliver precise property valuations . These cutting-edge tools are the backbone of its reliability and are especially beneficial for commercial brokers.
"We continue to see the benefits of using advanced AI and machine learning techniques when developing new mortgage lending solutions."
– Ann Regan, Executive, Product Management at CoreLogic
Key Advantages for Commercial Brokers
THVx brings a range of features tailored to meet the needs of commercial real estate professionals:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Single-Model Technology | Achieves 99% accuracy across diverse valuation scenarios |
| Risk Assessment | Offers detailed hazard and risk evaluations |
| Geographic Coverage | Provides nationwide property data for comprehensive decision-making |
Market Intelligence and Risk Assessment
THVx stands out with its specialized risk analysis, continuously refined by CoreLogic experts. This is especially important for assessing properties in areas prone to natural disasters like wildfires .
"Because Total Home ValueX uses the same valuation methodology from acquisition to underwriting, there are fewer valuation 'surprises' that can lead to fallout and consumer disappointment."
– Ann Regan, Executive, Product Management at CoreLogic
Data-Driven Decision Making
Recent data shows a 3.9% year-over-year price increase in December, with metropolitan areas leading the trend. This highlights THVx's value in supporting informed, data-backed decisions.
"In 2020, the appraisal industry saw an immediate need to shift from traditional in-person appraisals to consistently precise and dependable digital valuation tools - a need that continues to grow and has no end in sight."
– Frank Martell, President and CEO of CoreLogic
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3. ClearAVM by Clear Capital
ClearAVM is a lending-grade AVM powered by AI, offering accurate market value predictions for over 139 million U.S. properties . It's built on a solid data foundation and includes a range of advanced features.
Extensive Data Coverage
ClearAVM's strength comes from its vast data resources, which include:
| Data Metric | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Total Properties Covered | 120+ million |
| U.S. Homes Coverage | 95% |
| Historical Records | 3+ billion |
| Data Updates | Hourly |
Advanced Valuation Tools
-
Interactive Property Assessment
ClearAVM allows users to input custom property details for more precise valuations . -
Confidence Scoring System
This system helps users determine valuation reliability by setting specific risk tolerances. It provides a clear measure of how dependable each valuation is, aiding smarter investment decisions .
Boosting Market Efficiency
ClearAVM has shown measurable results, including a 30% increase in loan approvals for Hitch after its adoption .
"Any AVM can be used by SFR managers and investors to make more informed decisions, but ClearAVM provides our customers with a unique measure of predicted accuracy, quickly allowing them to gauge each valuation's reliability and set a valuation risk tolerance. We're thrilled to bring these capabilities to our customers and to expand our relationship with Clear Capital."
– Kevin Shtofman, global head of innovation at Cherre
Tools for Investment Analysis
ClearAVM is also a valuable resource for commercial real estate professionals, offering features like:
- Nationwide property scanning to uncover investment opportunities
- Portfolio valuation for large-scale management
- Advanced property filtering for targeted marketing
- Due diligence support for in-depth investment reviews
Its desktop appraisals are 50% faster than traditional methods while maintaining reliability . This makes ClearAVM an excellent choice for brokers handling multiple properties and transactions.
4. Plotzy
Plotzy uses AI to provide automated tools tailored for brokers, developers, and land teams. Its platform focuses on property analysis and valuation, making research faster and more effective.
AI-Powered Valuation Tools
Plotzy simplifies property research with AI-driven features, such as:
| Feature | What It Offers |
|---|---|
| Property Data Analysis | Quick access to tax assessments and valuation histories |
| Zoning Intelligence | Insights into permitted uses and restrictions |
| Detailed Filtering | Search by property criteria and development possibilities |
| Owner Information | Verified contact details for property owners |
These tools not only improve valuation accuracy but also make research more efficient.
Tools for Advanced Property Research
Plotzy includes several research tools designed to help users dig deeper into property details:
-
Automated Property Reports
Generate in-depth property analyses using data from public records and county tax assessors. -
Interactive Mapping
Manage property portfolios through a user-friendly map interface, making it easier to spot investment opportunities. -
Custom Development Analysis
Evaluate development potential with tools for:- Permitted use assessments
- Height restriction reviews
- Zoning compliance checks
Market Intelligence Features
Plotzy doesn't stop at research - it also integrates market intelligence to provide a complete solution.
"Plotzy is revolutionizing property research for brokers, developers, and land teams. With advanced AI tools, it streamlines parcel searching and information gathering, providing fast and accurate data from public records and county tax assessors." - Appvizer
Market intelligence tools allow brokers to:
- Find properties that meet specific development needs
- Review detailed ownership histories
- Create comprehensive valuation reports
- Examine lease terms and conditions
Pricing Options
Plotzy offers two subscription plans for commercial real estate professionals:
| Plan | Cost Per Month | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $65.00 | Basic property searches, owner contact info, and list management |
| Pro | $200.00 | Unlimited searches, zoning insights, and advanced filtering |
These pricing tiers aim to provide affordable access to reliable property data and analysis tools.
AVM Tools Feature Comparison
This breakdown highlights key features of AVM tools for commercial real estate brokers.
Accuracy and Coverage
| Tool | Accuracy Rate | Coverage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATTOM's AVM | 6% median error | 84M+ homes (98% US population) | Multiple modeling approaches |
| CoreLogic Total Home ValueX | Not disclosed | Nationwide | Relies on nearby sales trends |
| ClearAVM by Clear Capital | Not disclosed | Nationwide | Uses machine learning |
| Plotzy | Not disclosed | Nationwide | AI-powered analysis |
Data Sources and Integration
| Tool | Primary Data Sources | Integration Options | API Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATTOM's AVM | Property records, MLS, tax data | ERP systems, custom solutions | Yes |
| CoreLogic Total Home ValueX | Sales data, property characteristics | Multiple CRM platforms | Yes |
| ClearAVM by Clear Capital | Market benchmarks, property data | Custom enterprise solutions | Yes |
| Plotzy | Public records, tax assessors | List management tools | Yes |
The diverse integration options influence the cost structures of these tools.
Cost Structure
| Tool | Pricing Model | Target Market |
|---|---|---|
| ATTOM's AVM | Custom enterprise pricing | Mid-market firms |
| CoreLogic Total Home ValueX | Subscription-based | Large institutions |
| ClearAVM by Clear Capital | Pay-per-use available | Firms of varying sizes |
| Plotzy | $65–$200 monthly | Individual brokers and teams |
These pricing strategies reflect the tools' focus on different user needs and market segments.
"The new ATTOM AVM fills an important gap in the world of property valuation products that primarily reside on one of two extremes: overpriced lender-grade AVMs that are only cost-effective for a select few giant corporations; and free AVMs available to the masses but diluted due to their inherent need to be all-inclusive - not to mention they are typically not available to be delivered in bulk."
– Rob Barber, CEO with ATTOM Data Solutions
Data quality is a key factor for these tools. Clifford A. Lipscomb, vice chair of AVM Analytics, notes:
"What we exclude is important. Not only do we exclude certain anomalous property types, but we also exclude the subject property itself, making our monthly accuracy tests a true out-of-sample comparison."
Modern AVM tools also integrate seamlessly with ERP systems to simplify data management . While ATTOM boasts a 6% median error rate, other tools apply different valuation methods, highlighting the trade-offs between precision, coverage, and usability .
These differences reflect the evolving role of AVM tools in commercial real estate.
Conclusion
When selecting an AVM, prioritize tools that provide precise, reliable data. Our reviews highlight the importance of focusing on three key areas: data integrity, customization, and integration.
Here’s what to look for:
Data Quality and Coverage
- Ensure the tool uses reliable data sources, updates frequently, and covers a wide range of markets.
- Look for AVMs that incorporate multiple valuation methods.
- Verify that the data is accurate for the specific markets you’re targeting.
Customization and Transparency
- Opt for AVMs that allow you to adjust comparable sets and weightings.
- Check if the methodology is well-documented and easy to understand.
- Consider tools with strong forecasting capabilities to anticipate market changes.
Integration and Usability
- Assess API access, system compatibility, and pricing structures.
- Make sure the provider offers training and ongoing support.
- Confirm the AVM integrates smoothly with your current workflows.
"Commercial real estate investors have been slower to adopt AVMs than their peers in the single-family residential space. And this is largely because they either don't trust the output of existing models, or don't understand how the models work." – Andy McCulloch, Green Street's Global Head of Data & Analytics
AVMs consistently deliver low error rates across portfolios, making them a reliable tool for property valuation. By choosing a solution that aligns with your specific needs, you can make informed decisions backed by accurate, customizable insights.
Pair AVMs with human expertise for efficient and effective property valuation.
