Property ValuationIntermediateCalifornia Exam

An appraiser is reconciling three value indicators from the three approaches: Cost approach = $485,000; Sales comparison approach = $475,000; Income approach = $460,000. The subject is an owner-occupied single-family home. Which approach should receive the most weight?

ACost approach, because the property is relatively new, as typically applied in a comparative market analysis
BIncome approach, because it reflects investment value, consistent with USPAP appraisal standards
CSales comparison approach, because owner-occupied residential buyers base decisions primarily on comparable salesCorrect
DAll three approaches should be weighted equally, per standard California valuation practice

Why Sales comparison approach, because owner-occupied residential buyers base decisions primarily on comparable sales Is Correct

Answer C: Sales comparison approach, because owner-occupied residential buyers base decisions primarily on comparable sales

For owner-occupied single-family residential properties, the sales comparison approach is typically given the most weight because buyers make purchase decisions primarily by comparing recent sales of similar homes. The income approach is least reliable for owner-occupied homes where buyers are not motivated by rental income.

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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