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Total economic life differs from remaining economic life in that total economic life:

Correct Answer

D) Spans the full period the improvements contribute value

Why this is correct: Total economic life (TEL) is the entire estimated period, from when the improvements are new until they no longer contribute to property value. Remaining economic life (REL) is the portion of that period that is still left, given the building's current condition and market. Why the other choices are wrong: "Is set by the property's mortgage term" is incorrect; economic life is based on utility and market, not financing. "Measures only the years still ahead" defines remaining economic life, not total. "Equals the building's total physical durability in years" confuses economic life (value contribution) with physical life (structural soundness). Exam tip: The three age-life terms are related: Total Economic Life = Effective Age + Remaining Economic Life.

Answer Options
A
Is set by the property's mortgage term
B
Measures only the years still ahead
C
Equals the building's total physical durability in years
D
Spans the full period the improvements contribute value

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Why this is correct: Total economic life (TEL) is the entire estimated period, from when the improvements are new until they no longer contribute to property value. Remaining economic life (REL) is the portion of that period that is still left, given the building's current condition and market. Why the other choices are wrong: "Is set by the property's mortgage term" is incorrect; economic life is based on utility and market, not financing. "Measures only the years still ahead" defines remaining economic life, not total. "Equals the building's total physical durability in years" confuses economic life (value contribution) with physical life (structural soundness). Exam tip: The three age-life terms are related: Total Economic Life = Effective Age + Remaining Economic Life.

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