What are the three primary approaches to determining property value?

The three primary approaches to determining property value are indeed classified as the Cost Approach, Income Approach, and Sales Approach. Each of these approaches serves a distinct purpose and is used in different scenarios based on the type of property being appraised and the available data.

The Cost Approach revolves around estimating the current cost to replace or reproduce a property, subtracting any depreciation, and then adding the value of the land. This method is particularly effective for newly constructed buildings or special use properties where comparable sales data may not be readily available.

The Income Approach is utilized primarily for income-generating properties, such as rental buildings or commercial properties. It focuses on the potential earnings that a property can generate, analyzing the income and expenses to determine its value based on cash flow projections.

The Sales Approach, often referred to as the Market Approach, relies on the comparison of the subject property to similar properties that have recently sold in the area. This method is effective in establishing a value based on real market transactions and is widely used for residential property appraisals.

Each of these approaches provides a valuable perspective on property valuation, depending on the nature of the property and the data available.