The reliability of a market-derived adjustment increases with:

Correct Answer

C) The number of independent observations supporting it

Why this is correct: The reliability of a market-derived adjustment, such as a value adjustment derived from paired sales analysis, is fundamentally a statistical concept. Reliability increases with the size and quality of the data sample. Each independent, comparable transaction provides a separate data point to estimate the adjustment. More independent observations reduce the impact of random errors or unique property features, leading to a more statistically reliable and supportable adjustment. Why the other choices are wrong: 'The age of the transactions used' is wrong because older data reflects past market conditions and may not be reliable for current adjustments. 'The absolute size of the adjustment being measured' is wrong because a large adjustment does not inherently make it more reliable; it may actually indicate a less comparable sale pair. 'The complexity of the analytical method' is wrong because sophisticated methods cannot compensate for a lack of reliable market evidence. Exam tip: For reliability in valuation, think 'more good data.' The Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) emphasizes credible assignment results, which rely on sufficient relevant data.