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

A window in a roof or ceiling of a structure from which light enters the house. ...

A rectangular area bordered on all sides by buildings. Often, a quadrangle is grassy with decorative landscaping. A quadrangle can be found in a central business district or on the site ...

Administrator of estate is a term used in common-law jurisdiction for a person assigned a particular responsibility. The administrator of estate definition describes a court-appointed ...

The term foraging comes from the old germanic language, which passed through Old French “fuerre” and “fourrage” and it means the search for wild food resources. ...

Document describing the benefits and provisions for people or businesses covered by group insurance. Document in life and health insurance issued to a member of a group insurance plan ...

Surveyor's use of hypothetical lines to portray a properties position. North to South in the meridian line while East to West is the base line. ...

Also called a title defect. Any claim, lien, or encumbrance which, if valid, may impair the owners title to the property. This cloud does not hinder transfer of ownership on the property, ...

Fee charged by a lender to a borrower for a standby commitment. ...

Property of a defaulted borrower is sold under court order, and the judge must approve the amount received. For example, Fidelity Bank has a first mortgage balance of $100,000 on Mr. X's ...

Popular Real Estate Questions