California Real Estate SalespersonProperty Valuation and Financial AnalysisEasy

An appraiser is using the cost approach to value a property. The land value is estimated at $180,000. The cost new of the improvements is $700,000. Total accrued depreciation is estimated at $140,000. What is the indicated value of the property using this approach?

  1. A$880,000
  2. B$920,000
  3. C$740,000
  4. D$1,020,000
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. $740,000

The cost approach calculates value as: Land Value + (Cost New of Improvements - Total Accrued Depreciation). So, $180,000 + ($700,000 - $140,000) = $180,000 + $560,000 = $740,000.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Incorrect, likely from adding depreciation instead of subtracting it from the improvements.
  • B. Incorrect, likely from simply adding land value to cost new.
  • D. Incorrect calculation, too high.

Cost Approach to Value

An appraisal method that estimates the value of a property by summing the estimated land value and the depreciated cost of the improvements.

  • Most reliable for new or unique properties
  • Land is valued separately from improvements
  • Value = Land Value + (Reproduction/Replacement Cost New - Accrued Depreciation)

Memory trick: Land Plus Building Minus Depreciation

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