What type of obsolescence is illustrated by an expressway constructed near a residential neighborhood leading to high traffic noise?

The situation described involves an expressway being constructed near a residential neighborhood, which brings about high traffic noise that negatively impacts the desirability and value of the homes in that area. This scenario exemplifies economic obsolescence, often referred to as external obsolescence in the context of appraisal.

Economic obsolescence occurs when external factors, not related to the property's physical condition, lead to a decrease in property value. In this case, the addition of the expressway introduces unwanted noise and traffic conditions that are external to the property itself, ultimately harming the living environment. This is a market-driven issue that can significantly reduce the market value of properties nearby due to factors outside the control of the property owner.

While external obsolescence is often used interchangeably with economic obsolescence, it specifically underscores external factors affecting property value. In this instance, high traffic noise from the expressway is a classic example of how external influences can create economic obstacles for the property's marketability and appeal. Thus, identifying this as economic obsolescence accurately reflects how outside factors lead to a depreciation in neighborhood desirability and property valuation.