Yeah wow you're seeing some differences! Welcome to New York!

I work in NYC but I own properties upstate near you. When I buy I don't care what the assessed value is (well, that's a bit of hyperbole, but not much). I study the market and cash flows (since these are investment props).

If you're trying to figure out a sales price to suggest to a client, which seems to be your situation, then you need to do a comparative market analysis that includes a thorough study of recent sales, list prices and prices of homes in contract. I'm afraid there aren't many shortcuts or formulas that you can rely upon.

And that's in a normal market. This in my opinion is not a normal market. You've just got to have your ear to the ground as much as you can.

Michael, looking at the assessed values to determine the possible price is not a very effective method. Same goes for the average cost per square foot although there can be a fairly decent correlation when comparing very similar dwellings in a very limited geographical area.

Best and easiest way to answer these questions is by contacting a local real estate agent. They'd be happy to help.