Allocation Method
The allocation method estimates the value of the property’s land by gathering information from comparable properties. The allocation method of estimating site value is ideal, however, when comparables are not available. We’ll get to how comparables are actually used in the allocation method below, but it isn’t the same as through the abstraction method. We get to know the percentage value of the land to the property’s total value through the allocation method. While this method is used for land and site appraisals and valuations, it is not the most commonly used method.
What is the Allocation Method?
The allocation method is one of the appraisal methods used by assessors to estimate the land value of a property that has been improved. In a residential area, the allocation method is not used as it is considered rather complicated compared to the other options of valuation. The sites, lands, or properties it is applied to don’t have sufficient comparable sales to determine the site’s value through the sales comparison method.
It is also important to note that the allocation method is more relevant when the property’s improvements are new. With older improvements, the ratio of land to property can increase making the allocation method inaccurate. Depreciation of property does affect the allocation method and it isn’t an ideal method for older homes.
How to use the Allocation Method?
To estimate the value of a property’s land or site, the assessor takes into account the values of comparable properties (with homes built on the lot) and comparable lots (empty lots). The assessor calculates the ratio from the two values and then applies the ratio on the appraised property.
If comparable lots in the area are sold for 20% of comparable properties value and comparable properties are sold for $200,000, then the 20% ratio is applied to the property that’s being appraised.
Popular Real Estate Terms
Tax assessed on a transfer of property made without adequate legal consideration. This tax is based on the appraised value of the property at the time of transfer.Also, gifts of property ...
Nonrefundable fee to pay for the painting and cleaning of an apartment or office unit after a tenant vacates the premises. ...
Before getting a loan to buy a property, you must know the definition of foreclosure. A foreclosure is the process of making a loan due immediately. Technically, a loan becomes due way ...
Generally, the term turnover is the accounting method of calculating how fast operations are conducted by a business. The simplest turnover definition is the rate at which a company sells ...
External front wall to a structure ...
Date of the valuation of property, usually contained in a report. ...
Effective Age is the counterpart to a property’s Actual Age. While the former refers to the date a property was built, the latter is more of a sensorial depiction of its age; the age ...
Foreclosed property is sold via a sheriff's deed. The amount received is used to pay the balance of any obligations against the owner or real estate. ...
Also called a like-kind exchange. An exchange in which tax benefits are available to real estate owners planning to sell their investment, rental, business or vacation real estate, and ...

Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.