Definition of "Allocation method"

Mark Allgood real estate agent

Written by

Mark Allgoodelite badge icon

Century 21 JW Morton Real Estate

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.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Real Estate Terms

Method used by appraisers and investors to evaluate a level of payment income stream for a fixed period of years predicated on a specific interest rate. ...

Individual who will receive an inheritance upon the death of another. The proceeds of an insurance policy may be in a lump sum annuity. Real estate also passes to the beneficiary. ...

Dehydrated gypsum that is mixed with water to form a rapidly setting material. Plaster of paris sets too rapidly to be practical for most building applications, but it is useful for ...

Claim of a person or business to real property such as by exercising an option. ...

The definition of puffing in real estate, also known as puffering, is an exaggeration of fact bordering on falsehood. You’ve probably heard a real estate agent make outrageous claims ...

The definition of net sales price in real estate is the combined total cost to the buyer of a listing, excluding any auxiliary costs such as the sales fee, appraisal fee, real estate agent ...

Danger, hazard, risk, or peril. For example, jeopardizing a piece of property by pledging it as collateral for a loan. ...

Legal practice followed in the American and English judicial systems of following the precedents of former decisions in deciding new cases. The application of this doctrine has not only ...

Real estate not subject to property tax such as that owned by nonprofit entities including charitable, governmental, religious institutions. ...

Popular Real Estate Questions