Sales Comparison Approach (SCA)
Definition
The Sales Comparison Approach (SCA) is a property valuation method used primarily in real estate to estimate the value of a property by comparing it to similar properties (often referred to as “comparables” or “comps”) that have recently been sold in the same area. Adjustments are made to account for differences between the subject property and the comparables, such as differences in size, condition, features, and age, among other factors.
Key Elements
- Selection of Comparable Properties: Identifying properties that are similar to the subject property in terms of location, size, and features.
- Adjustments for Differences: Modifying the sale prices of the comparables to account for differences between them and the subject property.
- Derivation of Value: Using the adjusted prices to estimate the value of the subject property.
Examples
Example 1:
A 3-bedroom, 2-bath house (the subject property) is being appraised. Two recently sold comparable properties (Comparables #1 and #2) are selected for comparison.
Table 46: Sales Comparison Approach
Characteristic |
Comparable #1 |
Comparable #2 |
Sale price |
$170,500 |
$167,000 |
Date of sale |
Last week |
3 months ago |
Adjustment for market changes |
None |
+$1,000 |
Bedrooms |
3 bedrooms |
3 bedrooms |
Baths |
2½ baths (–$2,500) |
2 baths |
Adjusted price |
$168,000 |
$168,000 |
Based on the adjustments, the subject property is appraised for $168,000.
Example 2:
A 4-bedroom, 3-bath house with a unique swimming pool. Comparables chosen lack the swimming pool feature.
Adjustments
- Sale prices of comparables are adjusted upwards to account for the pool.
- Date of sale adjustments might be made for market changes over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary advantage of the Sales Comparison Approach?
The primary advantage is its reliance on actual market transactions, which makes it a reliable indicator of current market value.
How do appraisers select comparable properties?
Appraisers choose comps based on similarity to the subject property in terms of size, location, features, and time of sale.
What kinds of adjustments are made to comparable sales?
Adjustments may consider differences in size, number of rooms, amenities, condition, date of sale, and location.
Can the Sales Comparison Approach be used for all types of properties?
It is most commonly used for residential properties, but it can also be applied to commercial real estate.
What data sources do appraisers use to find comparables?
Common sources include Multiple Listing Services (MLS), public records, real estate databases, and recent sales data.
Market Value
The amount for which a property would be sold on the open market under normal conditions.
Appraisal
A professional assessment of a property’s value.
Comparable Properties (Comps)
Properties similar to the subject property used for valuation comparisons.
Adjusted Sales Price
The sale price of a comparable after adjustments have been made for differences.
Online Resources
References
- “The Appraisal of Real Estate” by Appraisal Institute.
- “Fundamentals of Real Estate Appraisal” by William L. Ventolo.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Appraisal of Real Estate, 14th Edition” by Appraisal Institute.
- “Fundamentals of Real Estate Appraisal” by William L. Ventolo Jr. and Martha R. Williams.
- “Real Estate Principles: A Value Approach” by David C. Ling and Wayne R. Archer.
Real Estate Basics: Sales Comparison Approach Fundamentals Quiz
### Why is the Sales Comparison Approach reliable?
- [ ] It uses hypothetical prices.
- [x] It relies on actual market transactions.
- [ ] It is based purely on cost calculations.
- [ ] It does not need any adjustments.
> **Explanation:** The Sales Comparison Approach is reliable because it uses actual market transactions to derive the estimated property value.
### What is a 'comparable' in the Sales Comparison Approach?
- [ ] A property that has the same owner as the subject property.
- [ ] The property used primarily for comparison articles.
- [x] A similar property that has recently sold in the same area.
- [ ] Any random property within a 50-mile radius.
> **Explanation:** A comparable is a property that is similar to the subject property and has recently sold in the same area.
### Which of the following adjustments might need to be made when comparing properties?
- [ ] Date of sale
- [ ] Size of property
- [ ] Number of amenities
- [x] All of the above
> **Explanation:** Adjustments may be needed for the date of sale, size of the property, and number of amenities to better compare the subject property to the comparables.
### What is the purpose of making adjustments to the sale prices of comparables?
- [ ] To inflate market prices.
- [ ] To make the subject property appear more valuable.
- [x] To account for differences in characteristics.
- [ ] To confuse potential buyers.
> **Explanation:** Adjustments are made to account for differences in characteristics between the comparables and the subject property to provide an accurate valuation.
### How is the final value of a subject property determined using the Sales Comparison Approach?
- [ ] By averaging the listing prices of all comps.
- [ ] By selecting the highest comparable sale price.
- [x] Through the adjusted sales prices of comparable properties.
- [ ] By client preference.
> **Explanation:** The final value is determined based on the adjusted sales prices of comparable properties after necessary adjustments are made.
### Can the Sales Comparison Approach be utilized for commercial properties?
- [x] Yes, though it's most common in residential appraisals.
- [ ] No, it's exclusively for residential properties.
- [ ] Sometimes, depends on the location.
- [ ] No, it can only be used for land.
> **Explanation:** Although the Sales Comparison Approach is most common for residential properties, it can also be applied to commercial properties.
### What is an appraiser's role in selecting comparables?
- [ ] They choose any property in the vicinity.
- [ ] They prioritize properties with the highest value.
- [x] They carefully select properties similar to the subject property.
- [ ] They do not participate in selecting comparables.
> **Explanation:** An appraiser carefully selects properties that are similar to the subject property to ensure accurate valuation.
### How does market condition influence the adjustment process?
- [x] Changing market conditions may require date of sale adjustments.
- [ ] Market conditions are irrelevant.
- [ ] Only recent sales matter with no regard to market changes.
- [ ] By making adjustments based on personal judgment.
> **Explanation:** Market conditions can influence the appraisal, and adjustments might be necessary to account for changes in market conditions over time.
### What is meant by ‘adjusted sales price’?
- [ ] A setting in financial software.
- [ ] The original sale price unaltered.
- [ ] The listing price of unsold properties.
- [x] The sale price of a comparable, adjusted for various differences.
> **Explanation:** Adjusted sales price refers to the sale price of a comparable after modifications have been made for differences between it and the subject property.
### What information is crucial for the Sales Comparison Approach to work effectively?
- [ ] Only the number of bedrooms.
- [x] Recent sale prices of similar properties.
- [ ] The decoration style of houses.
- [ ] The future market predictions.
> **Explanation:** Accurate and recent sale prices of similar properties are crucial for the Sales Comparison Approach to work effectively.