Property Valuation

What is 'economic life' versus 'physical life' of a building in appraisal?

AThey are the same concept; both describe how long a building will last
BPhysical life is how long the structure can exist with maintenance; economic life is the period during which the improvement contributes to property value✓ Correct
CEconomic life applies to commercial buildings; physical life to residential
DPhysical life is longer than economic life only in industrial properties

Explanation

Physical life is the total period a building can exist with normal maintenance before it must be demolished. Economic life (or useful life) is the period during which the improvement contributes positively to the property's value. Economic life is usually shorter than physical life—a building may still be standing but no longer add value if it's functionally or economically obsolete.

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