By Chris Ashby
January 18th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
What is a CMA and Why Every Seller Needs One
If you’re thinking about selling your home, you’ve probably heard the term “CMA” thrown around. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it so important? A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is one of the most valuable tools in real estate – and understanding it could be the difference between pricing your home perfectly or leaving money on the table.
What is a CMA?
A Comparative Market Analysis is a detailed report that estimates your home’s current market value by comparing it to similar properties that have recently sold, are currently for sale, or were listed but didn’t sell in your area.
Think of it as your home’s “market snapshot” – a real-time picture of how it stacks up against the competition.
Unlike an automated online estimate, a CMA considers the unique features of your property, local market conditions, and recent trends that only a trained professional can properly evaluate. It’s not just about square footage and bedrooms – it’s about understanding what buyers are actually willing to pay for homes like yours right now.
The Three Types of Properties in a CMA
A comprehensive CMA examines three categories of comparable properties, or “comps”:
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What sold in the market you are in, and how long did it take to sell?
Sold Properties (typically within the last 3-6 months) show what buyers have actually paid for similar homes. These are the most important because they represent real market transactions, not just asking prices.
- Active Listings reveal your current competition. These properties are what buyers will compare your home against when you list it for sale.
- Expired or Withdrawn Listings provide valuable lessons about what doesn’t work. Overpricing, poor presentation, or unfortunate timing may have caused these listings to fail – and you can learn from them.
Why Every Seller Needs a CMA
Pricing your home correctly from the start is crucial in any market. An overpriced home tends to sit – and the longer it sits, the more buyers assume something is wrong. This often leads to price reductions and ultimately a lower final sale price.
On the other hand, underpricing means leaving equity on the table that took years to build.
A well-prepared CMA helps you find the pricing “sweet spot” – where your home attracts strong buyer interest while maximizing your return.
Beyond Just Price
A good CMA offers more than just a suggested listing price. It can reveal market trends in your neighborhood, highlight which features buyers value most, and suggest improvements that could increase your home’s appeal. You might discover that homes with updated kitchens are selling for significantly more, or that properties with certain layouts are moving faster.
The Professional Advantage
A true CMA combines data with expertise. It accounts for:
- Your home’s condition and improvements
- Local market dynamics
- Seasonal effects on pricing
- Buyer expectations in your specific area
- Style, layout, and intangible property characteristics
Be as fully informed as possible when you are selling.
This blend of analytics + real-world insight is something no algorithm can replicate.
When You’re Ready to Sell
A CMA is the first step toward a smart, confident sale – and it’s something I provide as part of my service. If you’re curious about your home’s current value, want a clearer understanding of your neighborhood’s trends, or simply want to plan ahead, I’d be happy to prepare a personalized CMA for you.
Chris Ashby is a real estate professional
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