Thursday April 9, 2026 Class #19

 COST APPROACH


Definition

The Cost Approach is based on the principle that a buyer will not pay more for a property than the amount required to purchase the land and construct a substitute property of equal utility, less any depreciation.

A standard appraisal definition is:

The value indication derived by estimating the current cost to construct the improvements as of the effective date of the appraisal, deducting all forms of depreciation, and adding the market value of the land as if vacant and available for its highest and best use.


Standard Formula

The classic formula is:

Value=Land Value+(Replacement/Reproduction Cost NewDepreciation)\text{Value} = \text{Land Value} + (\text{Replacement/Reproduction Cost New} - \text{Depreciation})

Or stated another way:

Market Value=Land Value+Depreciated Improvement Value\text{Market Value} = \text{Land Value} + \text{Depreciated Improvement Value}

                                                          V=L+(RCND)

Where:

  • V = indicated value of the property
  • L = land value as if vacant
  • RCN = replacement cost new (or reproduction cost new)
  • D = accrued depreciation

Key Components

1) Land Value

Estimate the site value as if vacant, usually by the sales comparison method using comparable land sales.

2) Cost New

This can be measured as:

  • Replacement Cost New
    Cost to build a structure with equivalent utility using modern materials and standards
  • Reproduction Cost New
    Cost to build an exact duplicate of the existing improvements

Replacement cost is most common in market value appraisals.

3) Depreciation

Deduct all loss in value from:

  • Physical deterioration
    wear and tear, age, deferred maintenance
  • Functional obsolescence
    outdated design, poor floor plan, excess improvements
  • External (economic) obsolescence
    adverse outside influences such as traffic decline, zoning, neighborhood issues


When Most Applicable

The Cost Approach is especially useful for:

  • new construction
  • special-purpose properties
  • schools
  • churches
  • government buildings
  • medical facilities
  • insurance appraisals / replacement cost estimates
  • properties with limited comparable sales



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