California Real Estate Broker ExaminationValuation and AppraisalMedium

An appraiser is valuing a property that has been negatively impacted by a recent zoning change that now restricts the land's potential uses, significantly reducing its development potential and thus its value. This loss in value is best described as a form of:

  1. AExternal Obsolescence
  2. BCurable Depreciation
  3. CPhysical Deterioration
  4. DFunctional Obsolescence
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. External Obsolescence

External obsolescence (also known as economic obsolescence) is a loss in value due to factors outside the property boundaries, such as a negative zoning change, changes in traffic patterns, or proximity to undesirable land uses.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Curable depreciation refers to loss that can be economically fixed, which isn't the primary classification here.
  • C. Physical deterioration is wear and tear on the building itself.
  • D. Functional obsolescence relates to outdated design or features within the property.

External Obsolescence

External obsolescence is a loss in property value caused by factors outside the property itself, such as changes in zoning, economic downturns, or proximity to undesirable environmental influences.

  • Caused by external, outside-the-property factors.
  • Generally considered incurable.
  • Also known as economic obsolescence.

Memory trick: Functional is faulty design, External is outside decline.

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