Property ValuationIntermediateCalifornia Exam

An appraiser determines that the highest and best use of a parcel is for commercial development, not its current residential use. How does this affect the appraisal?

AThe appraiser must value the property at its current residential use only, as typically applied in a comparative market analysis
BThe appraiser values the property based on its highest and best use as commercial, which may exceed its value as residentialCorrect
CThe appraiser must notify the zoning board before proceeding, consistent with USPAP appraisal standards
DHighest and best use only applies to vacant land, not improved properties, per standard California valuation practice

Why The appraiser values the property based on its highest and best use as commercial, which may exceed its value as residential Is Correct

Answer B: The appraiser values the property based on its highest and best use as commercial, which may exceed its value as residential

Highest and best use (HBU) is a foundational appraisal concept requiring that a property be valued at its most productive legal use. If HBU as vacant or with a different improvement exceeds current use value, the appraiser reflects that in the estimate of value.

Exam Tip: Property Valuation

Valuation questions focus on the three approaches to value: sales comparison, cost, and income. Know which approach is best for which property type. The income approach uses cap rate and NOI — memorize these formulas.

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