Writing effective narrative valuation reports: the storytelling imperative

The modern valuation profession faces a significant challenge in providing high-quality narrative reports that are both effective and customisable. Clear communication of the valuation story is essential, yet there is a recognised gap in understanding how to implement storytelling successfully within narrative valuation reports. This study aims to bridge this gap using semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 19 New Zealand valuers to explore the essential principles of crafting effective narrative valuation reports. This study identifies six critical components of valuation storytelling that are necessary for a high-quality narrative report: accuracy, balance, clarity, data-driven, efficiency in using multimodal tools, and reporting flawlessness. The establishment of strong relationships and robust processes within valuation practices is emphasised to reinforce these principles. This study also proposes a conceptual framework for valuation storytelling and suggests incorporating this framework into professional guidelines to equip emerging valuers with compelling narrative valuation reports.