by Philip G. Spool, ASA
My previous two articles were about estimating physical depreciation and functional obsolescence. In my article on functional obsolescence, I indicated that it is very complicated to understand and to estimate. I also discussed calculating functional obsolescence in the cost and sales comparison approaches. This article discusses…
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Editor’s Note: At OREP, we see that incorrect measurements are the cause of many E&O claims. Here are some tips on staying out of trouble. How to Report Building Areas Accurately (and avoid measurement mistakes) by Mark S. Langhamer As appraisers and review appraisers, some of us have seen fellow appraisers relying on building area...…
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Proving Appraisal Adjustments By Beverly A Bayer, SRA – Mvappraiser@yahoo.com When I began appraising, I asked my mentor what adjustments to use- he said, “Figure it out for yourself.” So I did. Here’s what I learned. When my mentor left the office, I studied his appraisals and began using his adjustments. Many years later, I…
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Events Leading to the Use of the Cost Segregation Study by Guy P. Reese, MAI and Kevin Cavasos, CMI Component depreciation in various forms was permitted by IRS for measuring depreciation until the establishment of the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) by the Tax Reform Act of 1986. Under MACRS, assets are grouped into…
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Editor’s Note: Appraising in a real estate collapse poses its problems. Seasoned appraiser Matt Cook, provides some guidance. Using Distressed Sales By Matt Cook If you’re having trouble appraising in a market where distressed properties dominate, you’re not alone. Recently, an appraiser stated in a post that the market for a particular residential assignment included…
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Editor’s Note: This fascinating interaction between an appraiser and builder sheds light on the role of both in a declining market. How Builders Think (in a Down Market) By Thomas J. Inserra, MAI, SRA I had a very interesting conversation with a builder recently on the issue of cost versus value. The Executive Vice President…
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Editor’s Note: In this story, appraiser John Lifflander explains the roles played by the Feds, brokers/lenders and yes, appraisers, in getting us into the lending “meltdown.” The story is reprinted with permission from Fair and Equitable magazine, published by IAAO (International Association of Assessing Officers). Rise and Fall of Real Estate Values by John Lifflander,…
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Editor’s Note: Who would have guessed that the Cost Approach would stir such emotions among appraisers nationwide? WRE received a sizable and emotional response to Cost Approach: Why Sidestepping it Can be Costly (WRE Online, Vol. 9). Significant Change to Cost Handbook by Marcos Campos, MAI, SRA A small change was made on page two...…
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New Qualifications/USPAP Explained by David Brauner, Editor If you’ve been busy making a living, perhaps you missed or forgot that important changes to appraiser qualifications and to the Uniform Standards of Professional Practice (USPAP) took effect January 1, 2008. Here is a brief overview of the changes with rational provided by John S. Brenan, Director…
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Editor’s note: Determining what is or is not a “stable” market in these turbulent times is confusing for some. Appraisers report having appraisals rejected because the “Declining Market” box is checked on the Fannie Form. Others say they would be admonished for not indicating a declining condition. As always, the best advice is to be...…
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