How to pick recommended RICS surveyor, for shared ownership staircasing?

InterestedParty2018

Interesting topic.

It is my opinion that RICS accredited surveyors are all guided to use the same/similar formula to calculate values, thus I don't think the final valuations would be that different to warrant the cost of 4x values.

Ultimately they use data extracted from actual sales (not asking prices) for comparable properties sold in the geographic vicinity, in recent months. Thus all surveyors are working with the same "data". Unless the property is unique with unsual quirks, the values (I expect) would be on a par.

Asking prices and online companies (eg Zoopla) are not reliable sources for valuations.

If you are concerned that the surveyor may have got their valuation wrong, check the report in detail to ensure they included/considered all issues which may impact their valuation. Example: check they have the correct lease term, have they included a designated car park space.

If their valuation content is correct, and you still disacgree with the valuation, it would be advisable to get your own (accurate) comparibles, and present these to the valuer for consideration.

Finally, two tips:
1. Just because you spend £5k, £10k or £20k on a new bathroom /kitchen/extension, it does not always add the same value to the property price!
2. Choose a surveyor based on the quality of their reporting (ask what information will be included) and their turn-around time... and the on the cost. (If they are RICS accredited and on the Housing Associations list they will already have fulfilled the normal requirements.)