Property Valuation

What is 'depreciation' as used in real property appraisal (distinct from tax depreciation)?

AThe IRS-approved tax deduction a property investor claims annually on investment property
BAny loss in property value from any cause, including physical deterioration, functional obsolescence, and external obsolescence✓ Correct
CThe annual decline in assessed value established by the county assessment office
DThe reduction in property value attributed to general economic inflation over time

Explanation

In real estate appraisal, depreciation is any loss in property value from any cause. There are three types: physical deterioration — wear and tear, either curable like peeling paint or incurable like structural failure; functional obsolescence — outdated features, either curable like old appliances or incurable like a poor floor plan; and external or economic obsolescence — outside factors like a nearby highway or declining neighborhood, which are always incurable.

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