An important characteristic of land is that it may be modified or improved. Such improvements tend to increase the value of real estate. Which of the following is NOT an improvement?

Utilities are considered improvements because they represent permanent enhancements that increase the land's utility and value. Once installed, utilities become part of the property and are generally not removable without significant damage or cost.

A new house is clearly an improvement as it's a permanent structure that becomes part of the real property. Buildings represent the most common type of improvement and significantly increase land value.

Planted crops are considered improvements because they represent human enhancement of the land. While they may be temporary, crops are intentionally planted to increase the land's productivity and value.