Introduction
Ownwell’s home value estimates aren’t meant to replace professional appraisals or comparative market analyses (CMAs). Their purpose is to provide automated, real-time, data-driven estimates that are directionally accurate for most properties and keep your clients engaged with their home and mortgage.
Rather than aiming for absolute precision, these estimates are designed to spark conversations that help you and your realtor partners demonstrate expertise and guide homeowners toward informed decisions. We reinforce this in the report itself, where the estimate appears at the centre of a range, and clients can click “How my home value estimate works” to understand the limitations of automated models. We also encourage them to reach out for a realtor CMA directly in the report with this call to action below their home value chart: “Automated estimates only go so far. I can arrange for a free expert valuation tailored to your home. Want to know its true market value?”
How Ownwell Estimates Home Values
Ownwell uses a multi-model valuation system to estimate a home’s current market value. Because no single model works for every property or every region, Ownwell automatically applies the best available method for each home, ensuring that every homeowner receives a reliable monthly estimate.
Ownwell uses two types of valuation models, depending on what information is available for the property.
1. Full Property Model
For most homes, Ownwell can generate a value instantly with just the property address.
This model combines data and modeling from our valuation partners, using:
recent comparable sales
neighbourhood market trends
historical transaction information
property characteristics
advanced statistical and machine-learning techniques
When this model applies, you won’t see fields for historical purchase information — Ownwell doesn’t need any extra details to estimate the value.
2. Market Trend Model
If we don’t have enough information to generate a Full Property Model for a specific home, Ownwell automatically uses a Market Trend Model.
This model blends:
the property address
the home’s historical purchase or appraisal information
the dwelling type
neighbourhood-level price trends
For brokers: When available, we prefill these details using the deal data from your submission platform or CRM.
Why Do Some Properties Use One Model vs. the Other?
Data availability varies across Canada by:
region
neighbourhood
property type
how much historical information is available
Because of this, no single model can cover 100% of Canadian homes. Using more than one approach ensures:
broad national coverage
accuracy where data is rich
consistency where data is limited
a stable experience for both brokers and homeowners
What You’ll See in Ownwell
If the Full Property Model is used:
The “historical value” and “corresponding date” fields will be hidden
Changing the address prompts Ownwell to fetch a new estimate
If the Market Trend Model is used:
Those fields will be visible and prefilled (when possible)
Editing these fields will prompt Ownwell to regenerate the estimate
When adding clients manually:
Ownwell first tries the Full Property Model
If unavailable, you’ll be asked for a few additional details so the Market Trend Model can run
Regardless of which model is used, your clients receive a clear, consistent monthly update about their home’s value and financial position.
Where The Estimates Come From
Ownwell does not generate home values using our own internal data.
Instead, we source property insights from trusted third-party valuation partners—companies widely used across Canada’s real estate and mortgage ecosystem. We don’t disclose their names (we’re under NDA), but they are among the largest and most established valuation providers in the country.
These partners supply the underlying data and models. Ownwell’s system then determines which valuation approach—Full Property Model or Market Trend Model—is the best fit for each property.
This blended approach ensures that homeowners receive the most reliable estimate available, even in areas where market data varies.
How Has Accuracy Improved With This Update?
Ownwell has moved to two industry-leading valuation data sources trusted by major Canadian institutions. In our testing, this has meaningfully increased accuracy and consistency across most properties.
Estimates for new clients will automatically use the improved data. If you’d like us to refresh your existing clients, you can opt into the free update before December 1.
How Accurate Are These Estimates?
Ownwell’s estimates are directionally accurate, not appraisals. Precision varies based on:
The amount of available property and market data
How unique or atypical the home is
Whether the home has been renovated (renovations won’t show up in the estimates)
Market volatility
Accuracy of property information imported/added to Ownwell
Automated valuation models can occasionally show anomalies, especially for unique properties or areas with very few recent sales. To set expectations:
The homeowner report presents a range, not a single precise figure
The report contains a disclaimer encouraging clients to request a CMA
a dedicated explanation (“How my home value estimate works”) reinforces limitations for homeowners
If a homeowner needs a precise valuation for selling, refinancing, or major financial decisions, we encourage them to consult a trusted realtor for a professional opinion.
Purpose of the Estimates
Ownwell’s home value estimate isn’t meant to be exact down to the dollar. In fact, its limitations can be one of your biggest strengths. When a client asks about their home value, it’s an opportunity to check in, understand why they’re asking (often a sign of an upcoming life or financial change), and connect them with a trusted realtor for a professional CMA.
The estimate helps surface new mortgage and real estate needs — refinance opportunities, renewal preparation, equity access, move-up scenarios, downsizing considerations, and more — well before renewal.
By delivering consistent monthly insights, Ownwell keeps you top of mind and positions you to add value the moment your client’s situation changes or a new opportunity emerges.