The sales comparison approach adjusts for differences by:
Audio Lesson
Duration: 2:22
Question & Answer
Review the question and all answer choices
Always adjusting the subject property
Adjusting the subject property would misrepresent its actual characteristics. The purpose is to make comparables equivalent to the subject, not to alter the subject to match comparables. This reverses the fundamental principle of the sales comparison approach.
Adjusting the comparable properties
Averaging all properties
Averaging all properties ignores the specific differences between properties and doesn't account for the unique characteristics of the subject property. Valuation requires specific adjustments, not general averaging, to reflect true market value.
Using only identical properties
Using only identical properties is unrealistic as no two properties are exactly alike. The sales comparison approach specifically deals with adjusting for differences between dissimilar properties to determine value.
Why is this correct?
Adjustments are made to comparable properties to make them equivalent to the subject property. This is the standard appraisal methodology where comparables are modified to account for differences, allowing for accurate valuation of the subject property based on recent sales of similar properties.
Deep Analysis
AI-powered in-depth explanation of this concept
The sales comparison approach is a fundamental valuation method in real estate, comprising approximately 10% of the exam content. This concept matters because it directly impacts property valuation, which affects pricing, financing, and investment decisions. The question tests understanding of how appraisers create value equivalence between properties. When analyzing comparable sales, appraisers adjust the comparables—not the subject property—to account for differences in location, size, condition, and features. This adjustment process allows for accurate comparison despite dissimilarities. The correct answer (B) reflects the standard appraisal methodology where comparables are modified to match the subject property's characteristics. This question challenges students by testing their understanding of the directional nature of adjustments and the purpose of making comparables equivalent to the subject property rather than vice versa. This connects to broader knowledge of valuation methods, appraisal principles, and market analysis techniques used throughout real estate practice.
Knowledge Background
Essential context and foundational knowledge
The sales comparison approach is one of three primary valuation methods in real estate appraisal, alongside the cost approach and income approach. It's based on the principle of substitution, which states that a rational buyer will not pay more for a property than the cost of acquiring a comparable substitute. Appraisers use recent sales of similar properties (comparables) as benchmarks, then adjust these comparables for differences in characteristics, location, market conditions, and physical attributes to arrive at a value indication for the subject property. This approach is most reliable when there are sufficient comparable sales available in the market.
Think of the sales comparison approach like converting foreign currency. You adjust the foreign money (comparables) to match your home currency (subject property), not the other way around.
When you see a question about the sales comparison approach, remember the currency conversion analogy to recall that adjustments go to the comparables, not the subject property.
For sales comparison approach questions, remember the direction of adjustments: comparables are modified to match the subject property, not the reverse. This principle helps eliminate incorrect options quickly.
Real World Application
How this concept applies in actual real estate practice
As a listing agent, you're preparing a market analysis for a client's three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with 1,800 square feet. You find three recent sales: a similar home with 2,000 square feet that sold for $350,000, a smaller 1,600 square foot home that sold for $310,000, and a home with an updated kitchen that sold for $345,000. You'll adjust each comparable for the differences in size, condition, and features to determine the appropriate value range for your client's property, demonstrating how adjustments are made to the comparables, not the subject property.
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