If a building's total depreciation after 20 years amounts to $20,000, what is its calculation based on the straight line method?

To determine the annual depreciation using the straight-line method, you need to divide the total depreciation by the number of years over which the building has depreciated. In this case, the total depreciation is $20,000, and the time span is 20 years.

By performing the calculation:

Annual Depreciation = Total Depreciation / Number of Years

Annual Depreciation = $20,000 / 20 years

Annual Depreciation = $1,000 per year

This result indicates that under the straight-line method, the building depreciates evenly over its useful life, leading us to conclude that the annual depreciation amount is precisely $1,000. The straight-line method is commonly used because it provides a consistent and easy computation approach comparable to other methods. The clarity and simplicity of this method make it a standard in property appraisal.