Property ValuationIntermediateCalifornia Exam

An appraiser values a property using the sales comparison approach and finds that a comparable property has a swimming pool worth $15,000 but the subject property does not. What adjustment does the appraiser make?

AAdd $15,000 to the subject's value
BSubtract $15,000 from the comparable's sale priceCorrect
CAdd $15,000 to the comparable's sale price
DNo adjustment is necessary

Why Subtract $15,000 from the comparable's sale price Is Correct

Answer B: Subtract $15,000 from the comparable's sale price

In the sales comparison approach, adjustments are made to the comparable, not the subject property. Because the comparable has a feature (pool) the subject lacks, the comparable is superior; the appraiser subtracts $15,000 from the comparable's price to make it equivalent to the subject.

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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