I never adjust value based on motive, so my opinion of value does not change if the property is being sold because it a short sale, a foreclosure, a corporate relocation, or just somebody who wants to sell their home. The value of a property is what the market says it is.

I'm oversimplifying, as you probably know, but it usually all boils down to three things: location, condition, and size. Price-per-square-foot within a certain area is KING, and bear in mind that appraisers must use the most recent comparables when doing their analysis.   

That's not to say that I don't have compassion for the people who are caught in a "distress sale" situation. In fact, just the opposite: I am concerned for them and their families, and do my best to find ways that I can help them, above and beyond my official role as real estate advisor. I can tell that there are other agents out there with the same passionate desire to help, too.  Unfortunately, our wish to do a good job for our clients doesn't change the value they'll likely get on a BPO (Broker's Pricing Opinion) or appraisal.