Hi Hannah,

I recently did an extension to my house which cost $170K (still rising too). When I went back to my bank for some more money the valuation only increased by $70K. I disputed it and told them to get the valuer to at least walk through my front door. The valuer refused and said the valuation would not change. I then spoke to my girlfriends bank and their valuer did an independant valuation (including photos and a guided tour) which came in $60K higher. I changed banks (which wasn't that hard) and had the pleasure of telling my old bank all about it.

My example is on a PPOR and a bit extreme but the principle of exploring all your options is universal. Good luck and stick it to 'em.