Frequently Asked Questions

Our home value estimator uses advanced AI technology to analyze multiple data sources and provide you with an accurate property valuation. Here's how it works:

Step 1: You enter your property address and basic details (bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage, year built, and special features like pools or renovations).

Step 2: Our AI system analyzes:
• Recent sales of comparable properties in your neighborhood
• Current active listings in your area
• Property tax records and assessments
• Local market trends and conditions
• Florida-specific factors like hurricane protection, waterfront location, and school districts

Step 3: The system generates a comprehensive valuation report including your estimated home value range, comparable properties that sold recently, market analysis, and personalized insights from licensed broker Robert DelGiacco.

Unlike simpler calculators, our tool considers both quantitative data (numbers, measurements) and qualitative factors (neighborhood desirability, condition, unique features) to give you the most accurate estimate possible without a physical inspection.

Yes, it's completely free. No credit card required, no trial period that converts to paid, no hidden fees whatsoever. Here's what you get at no cost:

• Instant AI-powered home valuation
• Detailed PDF report you can download and keep
• Comparable property analysis
• Local market insights specific to your Florida neighborhood
• Optional free consultation with licensed broker Robert DelGiacco

So what's the catch? There isn't one. We provide this service free because we're a full-service real estate brokerage. Our goal is to build relationships with homeowners in Florida. If and when you're ready to sell or buy, we hope you'll consider working with us. But there's absolutely no obligation. Many people use our estimator just to stay informed about their home's value and never end up working with us - and that's perfectly fine.

We believe an educated homeowner makes better decisions, whether they work with us or not. That's why we've invested in this technology and made it freely available.

Our estimates are typically accurate within 5-10% of actual sale prices for most properties, which is competitive with or better than other online estimators. However, accuracy depends on several factors:

Most Accurate For:
• Standard single-family homes in established neighborhoods with frequent sales
• Properties in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Miami, and Palm Beach (our specialization areas)
• Homes without major unique features or extensive custom renovations

Less Accurate For:
• Unique properties (custom builds, luxury estates over $2M, historical homes)
• Areas with very few recent sales
• Properties with major undocumented renovations
• Homes with significant condition issues not visible in data

Important to understand: Any online estimator, including ours, provides a starting point - not a guaranteed sale price. Actual value depends on current market conditions, your home's specific condition, buyer demand, and timing. For the most accurate valuation, you'd need a professional appraisal (which costs $300-500) or a comparative market analysis from a licensed agent who physically views your property.

Our free estimate gives you an informed ballpark figure that's perfect for financial planning, refinancing considerations, or deciding whether to explore selling.

You'll need basic information about your property. Here's what to have ready:

Required Information:
• Property address (street, city, state, ZIP)
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Approximate square footage
• Year the home was built
• Property type (single-family, townhouse, condo, etc.)
• Lot size (if known)

Optional But Helpful:
• Pool (increases value in Florida)
• Garage (attached/detached/carport)
• Recent renovations (kitchen, bathrooms, roof, HVAC)
• Hurricane protection features (impact windows, shutters - important for Florida valuations)
• Waterfront location or water view
• Additional structures (guest house, workshop)

Don't worry if you don't know everything. Most information can be found on your property tax records, which our system can access using your address. The more details you provide, especially about renovations and special features, the more accurate your estimate will be. The entire process takes less than 5 minutes.

The entire process takes less than 5 minutes from start to finish. Here's the typical timeline:

Step 1 (1 minute): Enter your name, email, and phone number
Step 2 (1 minute): Check your email and click the verification link
Step 3 (2 minutes): Enter your property details
Step 4 (Instant): Receive your valuation report immediately

Your report is generated instantly by our AI system and displayed on screen. You can also download it as a PDF to save or share. The report includes:
• Your estimated home value with a range
• 3-5 comparable properties that recently sold near you
• Local market analysis and trends
• Neighborhood insights
• Optional next steps if you're considering selling

There's no waiting period, no manual review needed - you get results immediately. If you have questions about your report, you can contact broker Robert DelGiacco at 954-603-0078 for a free consultation.

We provide home value estimates throughout Florida, with specialized expertise in South Florida markets:

Primary Coverage Areas (Our Specialization):
• Broward County (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Weston, Pembroke Pines)
• Miami-Dade County (Miami, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Aventura, Kendall, Homestead)
• Palm Beach County (West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Jupiter, Wellington)

Additional Florida Coverage:
• Martin County, St. Lucie County, Indian River County
• Monroe County (Florida Keys)
• Collier County (Naples), Lee County (Fort Myers)

Our estimates are most accurate in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties because that's where we have the deepest market knowledge and the most comparable sales data. However, our AI system can generate estimates for properties throughout Florida.

Outside Florida? This tool is currently optimized for Florida properties only. If your property is in another state, our estimates may be less accurate due to different market dynamics and data availability.

We can estimate most residential properties, but accuracy varies by property type:

Most Accurate Estimates:
• Single-family homes
• Townhouses and row homes
• Condominiums
• Single-family homes with guest houses

Good Estimates (May Need Adjustment):
• Duplexes and triplexes
• Mobile homes in established communities
• Properties on larger lots (1+ acres)

Limited Accuracy (Consider Professional Appraisal):
• Luxury homes over $2 million
• Commercial properties
• Multi-family buildings (4+ units)
• Vacant land
• Unique properties (houseboats, historic homes, completely custom builds)
• Properties with significant structural issues

Why the difference? Our AI system works best when there are many comparable sales to analyze. Standard residential properties have plenty of comparable data. Unique or high-end properties have fewer recent sales, making automated estimates less reliable. For these properties, we recommend requesting a free consultation with Robert DelGiacco at 954-603-0078 for a personalized evaluation.

No. You are never required to speak with anyone. Here's our no-pressure approach:

What Actually Happens:
1. You get your free report instantly online
2. You receive a follow-up email with your report attached (in case you want to save it)
3. You may receive an optional follow-up email checking if you had questions about your report
4. That's it - unless you reach out to us first

No Pushy Sales:
• We don't call you repeatedly
• We don't show up at your door
• We don't pressure you to list with us
• We respect your inbox (you can unsubscribe anytime)

Why We're Different:
Licensed broker Robert DelGiacco built this tool because he was frustrated with high-pressure real estate tactics. His philosophy: provide genuine value, respect people's time and privacy, and trust that the right clients will choose to work with us when they're ready.

That said, we're here if you need us. If you have questions about your report, the market, or are thinking about selling, you can call or email anytime at 954-603-0078 or through the contact information on your report. We're happy to help, but only when you want us to.

We take your privacy seriously. Here's exactly what happens with your information:

What We Collect:
• Name, email address, phone number (for delivering your report)
• Property address and details (to generate your valuation)
• IP address and basic browser information (for security)

What We DON'T Do:
✗ We do not sell your information to third parties
✗ We do not share your data with marketing companies
✗ We do not spam you with unrelated offers
✗ We do not publicly list your property or address

What We DO Do:
✓ Store your information securely on encrypted servers
✓ Use your email to send your valuation report
✓ May send occasional market updates relevant to your area (you can unsubscribe)
✓ Keep your information private to Cornerstone Property only

Your Rights:
• You can request we delete your information anytime
• You can unsubscribe from emails with one click
• You can request a copy of what data we have about you

Email Verification: We verify your email address to prevent spam and ensure you receive your report. This also prevents others from requesting estimates using your property address without your knowledge.

Great question. Here's an honest comparison:

Zillow & Redfin (National Platforms):
• Strengths: Massive databases, lots of historical data, good for quick rough estimates
• Limitations: Generic algorithms not optimized for local markets, Florida-specific factors (hurricane protection, waterfront premiums) not well accounted for, less accurate in areas with fewer sales, estimates can vary wildly
• Business Model: Lead generation for their network of agents (you may be contacted by multiple agents you don't know)

Realtor.com & Similar Sites:
• Strengths: Good for browsing listings, decent data
• Limitations: Estimates are often less detailed, may not include market analysis, primarily focused on showing you homes for sale

Cornerstone Property (Our Tool):
• Strengths: Specialized for Florida (especially South Florida), AI analyzes Florida-specific factors, backed by local broker with 20+ years experience, detailed comparable analysis included, no pressure sales, one-on-one support if you want it
• Limitations: Only covers Florida (not national), smaller database than national platforms, best for residential properties under $2M
• Business Model: We're a full-service brokerage hoping you'll work with us if you decide to sell, but no obligation

Bottom Line: If you have a property in Florida, especially in Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach counties, our estimates are typically more accurate than national platforms because we specialize in this market. For properties outside Florida or for quick national comparisons, Zillow might be fine. For the best of both worlds, get estimates from multiple sources and see where they align.

Your free report is comprehensive and includes:

1. Estimated Home Value
• A specific estimated value for your property
• A range (low to high estimate) accounting for market variability
• Confidence level in the estimate based on available data

2. Comparable Properties Analysis
• 3-5 recently sold properties similar to yours
• Address, sale price, date sold, square footage
• How each comparable compares to your property

3. Local Market Analysis
• Current market conditions in your area (buyer's vs. seller's market)
• Average days on market for similar properties
• Price trends in your neighborhood (rising, stable, or declining)
• Inventory levels (how many homes are for sale nearby)

4. Property Details Summary
• Your property information as entered
• Public record data we found
• Notable features affecting value

5. Next Steps (Optional)
• If you're considering selling: tips on preparing your home, timing the market, and maximizing value
• Contact information if you want a free consultation
• No obligation - these are just resources if you want them

The report is delivered both on-screen and as a downloadable PDF that you can save, print, or share with family members.

That's completely understandable and actually pretty common. Here's what to do:

Common Reasons for Disagreement:
• Recent renovations: You upgraded the kitchen, bathrooms, or added features that aren't in public records yet
• Condition differences: Your home is in exceptional condition (or needs work) compared to comparable sales
• Unique features: Your property has special amenities (pool, view, custom work) that automated systems can't fully account for
• Market timing: The market has shifted since the comparable sales occurred

What You Can Do:
1. Review the comparable properties: Look at the homes that sold - do they truly compare to yours? Sometimes one standout feature makes a big difference
2. Consider undocumented improvements: Did you make renovations that aren't in public records? These won't show up in automated estimates
3. Request a free consultation: Call broker Robert DelGiacco at 954-603-0078. He can review your property details, discuss what makes your home unique, and provide a personalized evaluation
4. Get a professional appraisal: For complete accuracy, especially if you're refinancing or need an official valuation, hire a licensed appraiser ($300-500)

Remember: Any automated estimate is a starting point, not a definitive answer. Your home's actual market value is ultimately what a ready, willing, and able buyer will pay in today's market - which can only be determined by testing the market or through professional in-person evaluation.

Absolutely! You can get a new estimate anytime. Here are common scenarios:

When to Get a New Estimate:
• After renovations: You completed a kitchen or bathroom remodel, added a pool, installed hurricane impact windows, or made other improvements
• Market changes: It's been 6+ months since your last estimate and the market has shifted
• Refinancing considerations: You're exploring a refinance and want to see if you've gained equity
• Selling timeline: You weren't ready to sell before but are now considering it
• Annual check-in: Many homeowners get estimates annually just to track their largest investment

How to Get Updated Estimates:
Simply visit homevalue.cornerstone-property.com again and go through the process with your updated information. Make sure to note any changes or improvements in the property details section.

Tracking Your Home's Value Over Time:
You can request estimates as often as you like at no charge. Many homeowners get an estimate every 6-12 months to monitor their home's value trajectory. This is especially useful in dynamic Florida markets where property values can shift quickly.

Tip: Save each report PDF with the date so you can compare how your estimated value changes over time and track your equity growth.

No, absolutely not. You can use our estimator without any obligation to work with us.

You're Free To:
• Get your estimate and never contact us
• Work with any real estate agent you prefer
• Sell your home yourself (FSBO - For Sale By Owner)
• Just monitor your home's value with no intention to sell

Why We Provide This Free:
We built this tool to provide genuine value to Florida homeowners. Yes, we hope that when you're ready to sell, you'll give us the opportunity to earn your business. But we'd rather have you come to us because we provided helpful information and earned your trust - not because you feel obligated.

If You Do Choose to Work With Us:
• You'll work directly with licensed broker Robert DelGiacco (not shuffled to a junior agent)
• We specialize in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Miami, and Palm Beach areas
• We provide comprehensive marketing, professional photography, and aggressive negotiation
• We're a boutique brokerage - you get personalized attention, not corporate bureaucracy

Fair Question, Honest Answer:
Of course we hope you'll work with us if you decide to sell. That's how we stay in business. But we believe the best way to earn clients is to be helpful, transparent, and trustworthy from the start - which means no pressure and no obligations.

No, our estimate cannot be used as an official appraisal. Here's why and what your options are:

What's the Difference?
• Our Estimate: Automated AI-powered valuation based on data analysis, comparable sales, and algorithms - perfect for general information, planning, or exploring selling options
• Official Appraisal: Performed by a licensed appraiser who physically inspects your property, documents condition, measures rooms, photographs everything, and provides a legally defensible valuation report

When You Need an Official Appraisal:
• Mortgage refinancing (lenders require official appraisal)
• Home equity loan or HELOC
• Divorce settlements
• Estate planning or probate
• Tax appeals or assessment challenges
• Some insurance claims

What We Can Do:
While we can't provide official appraisals, Robert DelGiacco (licensed broker) can:
• Provide a Broker Price Opinion (BPO) - more detailed than our automated estimate, based on in-person property viewing
• Refer you to trusted licensed appraisers (typically $300-500)
• Help you understand what appraisers look for so you can prepare
• Provide a pre-listing market analysis if you're considering selling

Bottom Line: Use our free estimate for planning and information. When you need something for legal, lending, or official purposes, you'll need a licensed appraiser. We're happy to guide you through that process if needed - just call 954-603-0078.