Assessors' Handbook Section 501, Basic Appraisal

ASSESSORS' HANDBOOK

ECTION 501

BASIC APPRAISAL

JANUARY 2002

CALIFORNIA STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION

JOHAN KLEHS, HAYWARD FIRST DISTRICT

EAN ANDAL, STOCKTON SECOND DISTRICT

LAUDE PARRISH, TORRANCE THIRD DISTRICT

OHN CHIANG, LOS ANGELES FOURTH DISTRICT

ATHLEEN CONNELL, SACRAMENTO STATE CONTROLLER

AMES E. SPEED, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

This edition of the Assessors' Handbook Section 501, Basic Appraisal, is an update of the

manual, which was rewritten in September 1997. The manual (formerly entitled General

Appraisal Manual) was originally written in 1960 and revised in 1975 and 1982. The 1997

rewrite of the manual includes a complete reorganization of topics, the expansion and

clarification of some portions of the existing text, and the addition of material concerning

subjects not previously covered. The rewrite was undertaken by staff members of the Policy,

Planning, and Standards Division (PPSD) in conjunction with the staff of the Property Taxes

Section of the Legal Division of the State Board of Equalization and is the product of staff

writing at the direction of the Board.

The objective of this manual is to give the beginning property tax appraiser, and other interested

parties, an understanding of the basic principles of property assessment and real and personal

property appraisal for tax purposes. It is not designed to be a complex or highly technical

treatment of the subject or a detailed analysis of a particular type of appraisal or valuation

approach. If there is an inconsistency resulting from the absence of technical data in this basic

and general manual and more advanced information in another more specific manual, the more

specific manual controls. Moreover, in the interest of accuracy and thoroughness, appraisers and

other interested parties are advised to consult with qualified experts and other authoritative

sources regarding the technical aspects of valuing any complex property.

As part of the process of producing this manual, meetings were first held with industry

representatives and then with assessors. Conflicts regarding the content of the manual were

identified and most were resolved. Those issues not resolved by meeting with industry and

assessors were voted on by Members of the Board of Equalization after hearing testimony from

interested parties and Board staff. The results of the voting are reflected as Board positions on

issues in the manual. The Board originally approved this particular manual in September 1997,

and adopted this update in January 2002. All citations and legal references were current as of the

writing of this publication.

FOREWORD

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Under Government Code sections 15606 et seq., the Board is charged with the duty of

administratively enforcing and interpreting the statutes governing the local assessment function.

While regulations adopted by the State Board of Equalization are binding as law, Board-adopted

manuals are advisory only. Nevertheless, courts have held that they may be properly considered

as evidence in the adjudicatory process.

David J. Gau

Deputy Director

Property Taxes Department

January 2002

Coca-Cola Co. v. State Board of Equalization (1945) 25 Cal.2d 918; Prudential Ins. Co. v. City and County of San

Francisco (1987) 191 Cal.App.3d 1142; Hunt Wesson Foods, Inc. v. County of Alameda (1974) 41 Cal.App.3d 163.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: THEORY OF VALUE .........................................................................................1

WHAT IS AN APPRAISAL? ...................................................................................................................1

NATURE AND PREREQUISITES OF ECONOMIC VALUE .........................................................................1

ECONOMIC CONCEPT OF MARKET VALUE .........................................................................................2

Market Value Defined ..................................................................................................................2

Supply and Demand and Market Value .......................................................................................3

ECONOMIC CONCEPT OF USE VALUE ................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................

Price, Cost, and Value .................................................................................................................

Value as the Present Worth of Future Benefits .

OTHER VALUE CONCEPTS 5

...........................................................................6

Value and the Price Level ............................................................................................................6

Other Types of Value ...................................................................................................................7

CHAPTER 2: STANDARD OF VALUE FOR PROPERTY TAX APPRAISAL ..................8

AIR MARKET VALUE STANDARD .....................................................................................................8

PPRAISAL UNIT .............................................................................................................................10

Principle of Unit Valuation ........................................................................................................11

Stage of Production....................................................................................................................12

VALUATION OF LIMITED MARKET PROPERTIES ...............................................................................13

EXCEPTIONS TO THE FAIR MARKET VALUE STANDARD ..................................................................15

Open Space Property .................................................................................................................16

Historical Properties .................................................................................................................16

Certain Golf Courses .................................................................................................................17

Certain Single Family Residences .............................................................................................17

Taxable Government-Owned property.......................................................................................17

Timberland Production Zones ...................................................................................................18

CHAPTER 3: PROPERTY CONCEPTS .................................................................................19

"PROPERTY" DEFINED .....................................................................................................................19

WHAT PROPERTY IS TAXABLE? ......................................................................................................20

Taxable Real Property ...............................................................................................................20

Taxable Personal Property ........................................................................................................26

Exempt Property ........................................................................................................................28

Immune Property .......................................................................................................................

WHAT REAL PROPERTY RIGHTS AND OWNERSHIP INTERESTS ARE TO BE APPRAISED? ..................

Surface, Above-Surface, and Sub-surface Property Rights .......................................................29

Legal (Ownership) Interests.......................................................................................................30

Importance of the Fee Simple Concept in Property Tax Appraisal ...........................................34

Forms of Ownership ..................................................................................................................35

CHAPTER 4: ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK FOR REAL PROPERTY APPRAISAL ......38

NATURE OF THE REAL ESTATE MARKET .........................................................................................38

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Definition and Functions of a Market ........................................................................................

Special Characteristics of Real Estate .......................................................................................

Forces Affecting the Value of Real Property .............................................................................41

Demand and Supply Factors in Real Estate Markets ................................................................42

NATURE OF REAL ESTATE PRODUCTIVITY ......................................................................................43

Physical Characteristics Affecting Real Estate Productivity .....................................................44

Locational Characteristics Affecting Real Estate Productivity .................................................46

HIGHEST AND BEST USE..................................................................................................................47

Value As a Function of Use .......................................................................................................47

Highest and Best Use Defined ...................................................................................................48

Criteria for Highest and Best Use .............................................................................................48

Highest and Best Use as Though Vacant and as Improved .......................................................52

Special Situations in Highest and Best Use Analysis.................................................................53

FUNDAMENTAL APPRAISAL PRINCIPLES ..........................................................................................55

Principles of Real Estate Productivity .......................................................................................55

Principles of Real Estate Marketability .....................................................................................57

CHAPTER 5: MEASUREMENT OF VALUE .......................................................................59

STEPS IN THE APPRAISAL PROCESS .................................................................................................59

Definition of the Appraisal Problem ..........................................................................................59

Preliminary Analysis and Data Collection ................................................................................60

Highest and Best Use Analysis ..................................................................................................61

Land Value Estimate ..................................................................................................................61

Application of the Approaches to Value ....................................................................................61

Reconciliation of Value Indicators and the Final Value Estimate ............................................62

Reporting the Final Value Estimate ............................................................................................62

LAND VALUATION ..........................................................................................................................62

Land Identification and Description ..........................................................................................63

Land or Site Analysis .................................................................................................................66

Methods of Land Appraisal ........................................................................................................67

CHAPTER 6: APPROACHES TO VALUE ............................................................................73

PPLYING THE APPROACHES TO VALUE ..........................................................................................73

COST APPROACH .............................................................................................................................74

Introduction................................................................................................................................74

Relation between Cost and Value ..............................................................................................75

Costs to Include..........................................................................................................................75

Reproduction Cost, Replacement Cost, and Historical Cost .....................................................77

Methods of Estimating Cost .......................................................................................................78

Sources of Cost Data .................................................................................................................80

Depreciation ..............................................................................................................................80

Measurement of Accrued Depreciation .....................................................................................83

Percent Good .............................................................................................................................84

Limitations of the Cost Approach ..............................................................................................84

COMPARATIVE SALES APPROACH ...................................................................................................85

Introduction................................................................................................................................85

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Sales Data Collection and Analysis ...........................................................................................86

Sales Data Adjustments..............................................................................................................88

Units of Comparison ..................................................................................................................93

Correlation Within the Comparative Sales Approach ...............................................................93

Value Allocation.........................................................................................................................93

Limitations of the Comparative Sales Approach .......................................................................94

Stock and Debt Approach ..........................................................................................................94

INCOME APPROACH .........................................................................................................................95

Introduction................................................................................................................................95

Applying the Income Approach for Property Tax Purposes ......................................................95

Assumptions of the Income Approach ........................................................................................

Conversion of Income into Value .............................................................................................100

Capitalization Rates and Multipliers .......................................................................................

102

Characteristics of the Income Stream ......................................................................................103

Processing the Income Stream .................................................................................................104

Deriving Income Multipliers and Overall Capitalization Rates from Comparable Sales .......104

Valuing Property Using Income Multipliers and Overall Capitalization Rates......................106

Residual Techniques: Overview ...............................................................................................108

Limitations of the Income Approach ........................................................................................109

RECONCILIATION OF VALUE INDICATORS AND THE FINAL VALUE ESTIMATE ................................109

CHAPTER 7: PERSONAL PROPERTY APPRAISAL PROGRAM .................................111

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PERSONAL PROPERTY AND REAL PROPERTY ..........................................111

SITUS ............................................................................................................................................112

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ..........................................................................................................112

Authorized Signatures ..............................................................................................................114

TRADE LEVEL ...............................................................................................................................114

TAXABILITY ..................................................................................................................................

Household Furnishings ............................................................................................................

Business Inventories .................................................................................................................

116

Personal Propert

y Owned by Banks, Insurance Companies, and Financial Corporations

116

....116

PPRAISAL METHODS FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY ..........................................................................

Audit-Appraisal Method...........................................................................................................117

Physical Appraisal Method ......................................................................................................

117

118

AUDIT PROGRAM ..........................................................................................................................

Audit Objectives .......................................................................................................................118

118

Statutory Provisions .................................................................................................................119

Statutory Requirement for Requesting Information on Unreported Property .........................119

Statutory Requirements for Notifying Taxpayer of Results......................................................119

CHAPTER 8: SPECIAL TOPICS ..........................................................................................121

APPRAISAL OF MANUFACTURED HOMES (MOBILEHOMES) ............................................................121

Classification ...........................................................................................................................121

Personal Property Characteristics ..........................................................................................122

Taxability .................................................................................................................................122

Site Value .................................................................................................................................123

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Accessories ...............................................................................................................................123

Appraisal of Floating Homes ...................................................................................................123

APPRAISAL OF CONSTRUCTION IN PROGRESS ................................................................................124

Start date ..................................................................................................................................125

Completion Date ......................................................................................................................125

APPENDIX A: ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGAL ASPECTS OF PROPERTY TAX

ASSESSMENT ...........................................................................................................................126

OVERVIEW ....................................................................................................................................126

Property Tax Base ....................................................................................................................126

Assessment Roll ........................................................................................................................126

Assessment Roll Revisions and Escape Assessments ...............................................................127

Property Tax Rate ....................................................................................................................128

State Versus Local Assessment ................................................................................................129

Lien Date ..................................................................................................................................132

Taxpayer reporting of information ..........................................................................................132

Taxpayer Appeals of Property Valuation ................................................................................132

Property Tax Exemptions .........................................................................................................133

The Assessment Process ...........................................................................................................134

FOUNDATION OF PROPERTY TAX LAW ..........................................................................................135

California Constitution ............................................................................................................135

Statutes .....................................................................................................................................136

Property Tax Rules ..................................................................................................................136

Judicial Decisions ....................................................................................................................136

Other ........................................................................................................................................136

ASSESSMENT PRE- AND POST-PROPOSITION 13 .............................................................................137

SOME IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT PROVISIONS ................................................................................138

Exclusions from Reassessment Upon Change in Ownership or New Construction ................139

Decline in Value Appraisals ....................................................................................................140

Supplemental Assessment Roll .................................................................................................141

APPENDIX B: COMMON MEASUREMENTS USED IN APPRAISAL ..........................143

GLOSSARY OF TERMS ..........................................................................................................145

BIBLIOGRAPHY ......................................................................................................................154

CHAPTER 1: THEORY OF VALUE

WHAT IS AN APPRAISAL?

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In an economic context, "appraisal" is the process of estimating the value of specific property at a

stated time and place. The word "valuation" is also used in this sense, as a synonym for appraisal.

A leading appraisal text defines appraisal as "the act or process of estimating value."

While anyone can make an informal estimate of economic value, a formal appraisal is

supportable based on the facts and data presented and the methods used. A formal appraisal is

also supported by some form of written documentation or appraisal report.

Formal appraisals are made for a variety of reasons. Many appraisals are required by economic

transactions, including the purchase and sale, financing, leasing, and insurance underwriting of

property. Other appraisals are required as part of private legal actions such as divorce,

bankruptcy, and lawsuits involving property. Governmental actions, including income tax

matters and condemnation proceedings, may also require appraisals. Perhaps the largest

government involvement with appraising is in the area of property taxation. The duty of the

appraiser is to prepare appraisals for property tax purposes using recognized methods and

techniques that are consistent with property tax law.

Three fundamental problems arise in any appraisal or valuation of property. The first problem is

to obtain a clear definition of value acceptable for the purpose of the appraisal. The second

problem is to obtain a clear definition of the property rights or interests that are to be valued. The

third problem is to determine the proper method, or methods, by which the defined value will be

estimated. This manual attempts to address these three fundamental problems in the context of

appraisal for property tax purposes. Accordingly, this first chapter begins with a discussion of the

general nature of value and definitions of some important value concepts.

NATURE AND PREREQUISITES OF ECONOMIC VALUE

In economics, material or immaterial things which satisfy human desires, and are external to

people, are called goods. All goods are classified as either free or economic goods. Free goods

have no value and do not command a price; economic goods have value and a price. Before any

good can have value, it must meet all of the following four prerequisites:

• Utility

• Scarcity

• Capacity for private ownership

• Demand, or effective purchasing power

The Appraisal of Real Estate, Eleventh Edition, (Chicago: Appraisal Institute, 1996), 11. Quoting from The

Appraisal Foundation, Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, "Definitions" section.

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Utility. Utility is the capacity of goods to evoke desire for possession. Some economists simply

say it is the quality of "wantedness" or "desiredness." British economist Alfred Marshall defined

utility as the want-satisfying power of a commodity. All of these definitions indicate the essential

nature of utility: It is psychological and depends upon the views or perceptions of individuals.

Thus, value does not reside in objects or goods themselves; rather, it represents an attitude by

people toward things. While goods have value because of their perceived capacity to perform

useful services for individuals, utility does not necessarily mean everyday usefulness. One may

question whether a diamond ring is useful, but no one will argue that it does not have utility in

many settings or markets. In most cases, utility derives from the perceived benefits of an object,

monetary or otherwise. Real estate, for example, has utility because prospective purchasers know

of the productive services that real estate can provide.

Scarcity. Although utility is a necessary condition for value, it is not the exclusive condition.

Some things may have immeasurable utility, and yet have no value. The air we breathe has a

great deal of utility, but ordinarily it is not an economic good. The reason for this is that air is not

scarce—it is freely available to all in unlimited quantities. Without scarcity, a good cannot have

value. A good is scarce only in relation to the desire or demand for it. In order to have value, a

good must require time and effort to obtain and be scarce enough so that it is necessary to

economize on its use.

Capacity for Private Ownership. Before a good can have value, it must be capable of private

ownership. Value in an economic sense thus assumes the social institution of private rights in

property. The value of a good means value to an individual who has or may have an ownership

interest in it. A good has economic value only if its attributes of utility and scarcity can be

exploited by exercising the power of ownership through exclusive use or sale.

Demand or Effective Purchasing Power. A final prerequisite of value is demand, or effective

purchasing power. If a good has utility and scarcity, this implies a desire on the part of people to

obtain it. However, to create economic value, this desire must be supported by effective

purchasing power. People must be ready, willing, and able to purchase the good at some price.

Value is a market phenomenon resulting from the interaction of supply and demand. In turn,

supply and demand are functions of relative scarcity and utility, respectively. Land, buildings,

and other goods have economic value because they have utility, are relatively scarce, are capable

of private ownership, and are the objects of demand in a market context.

ECONOMIC CONCEPT OF MARKET VALUE

MARKET VALUE DEFINED

Economists define market value, also known as value in exchange, as the power of a commodity

to command other commodities in exchange. Value in exchange means that the purchasing

power of a commodity can be expressed in terms of other commodities. It is the relative

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desirability of a commodity as evidenced by the actions of buyers and sellers in an open market

at a particular time.

For example, in a barter economy, a farmer might find that one tractor can be exchanged for three

horses. The value of tractors is expressed in terms of horses, and vice versa. If the exchange ratio

changes and one tractor now equals four horses, what is the effect on the power of a tractor to

command horses in exchange? The answer is that the value of a tractor, in terms of horses, has

increased. This may have happened because the value of tractors has remained constant in terms

of all other goods while the value of horses has decreased, or because the value of both tractors

and horses has changed in terms of all other goods. In either case, value in exchange is

determined by the exchange ratios among goods or commodities.

In an industrial economy, market value is generally measured in terms of the commodity known

as money. In these terms, market value is the price (the amount of money) that a property will

bring when it is sold in a market. The general economic concept of market value, as described

above, forms the basis for the precise legal standard of market value for property tax purposes

that is presented in Chapter 2.

SUPPLY AND DEMAND AND MARKET VALUE

What determines market value? A partial answer to the question has already been given in the

preceding paragraphs. Value is determined by the utility of the property, as manifested through

the purchasing power of those who are interested in acquiring it; the relative scarcity of the

commodity; and the difficulty involved in overcoming this scarcity (i.e., the time and effort

required to obtain the commodity). In other words, value is determined by supply and demand.

Supply and demand are the market effects of scarcity and utility. In The Appraisal of Real Estate,

these concepts are discussed as follows:

Demand for a commodity is created by its utility and affected by its scarcity.

Demand is also influenced by desire and the forces that create and stimulate

desire. Although human longing for things may be unlimited, desire is restrained

by effective purchasing power. Thus, the inability to buy expensive things affects

demand.

Similarly, the supply of a commodity is influenced by its utility and limited by its

scarcity. The availability of a commodity is affected by its desirability. Land is a

limited commodity, and the land in an area that is suitable for a specific use will

be in especially short supply if the perceived need for it is great. Sluggish

purchasing power keeps the pressure on supply in check. If purchasing power

expands, the supply of a relatively fixed commodity will dwindle and create a

market-driven demand to increase the supply.

A market may be defined as the organized action between potential buyers and sellers that permits trade.

Appraisal Institute, The Appraisal of Real Estate, 29.

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Market demand and market supply interact in a competitive market to determine the price and

quantity of the good traded. When the quantity demanded and the quantity supplied are equal,

there is a state of balance known as equilibrium. From an equilibrium position, if market demand

increases while market supply remains constant, price tends to increase. On the other hand, if

market supply increases while market demand remains constant, price tends to decrease.

A change in just one of the many variables affecting supply or demand is likely to create a price

and/or quantity movement in the market. The relative strength of the market forces underlying

demand and supply determines whether price increases or decreases, and whether quantities

demanded and supplied increase or decrease.

Thus, neither demand nor supply alone determines value. British economist Alfred Marshall

illustrated this by asking the rhetorical question: Which blade of the scissors cuts the cloth? The

answer, obviously, is that both blades cut it. Similarly, in a competitive market both demand and

supply interact to determine value. A change in one of the variables affecting either supply or

demand is likely to create a price movement in the market.

The essence of market value is that it is market derived. In a market subject to the interaction of

supply and demand, value is determined by the actions of buyers and sellers bidding, and seeking

bids, in competition with each other. The market value concept presupposes that: (1) there is

competition for the acquisition of similar properties; (2) market participants have alternative

choices; and (3) prospective purchasers make rational decisions. The ideal market reflects

conditions of perfect competition.

A perfectly competitive market requires: (1) many buyers and sellers, none of whom can affect

market price through their own singular efforts; (2) a standardized product; (3) no artificial

restrictions; (4) easy entry and exit into the market by buyers and sellers; (5) complete knowledge

and information regarding bids and offers; and (6) the mobility to take immediate action. The

stock market and some agricultural markets may be the closest approximations of perfectly

competitive markets, but few other markets meet these ideal standards. The real estate market,

for example, trades in a non-standardized product with buyers and sellers frequently lacking

complete information.

In addition, many markets are subject to governmental interventions or

restrictions that disrupt the natural market determination of price and quantity traded.

ECONOMIC CONCEPT OF USE VALUE

It is important to distinguish between the concept of market value and another value concept

known as use value or value in use. The concept of use value is concerned with the value of

property based on its utilization by a particular owner or group of owners. The Appraisal of Real

Estate defines and describes use value as follows:

The real estate market is discussed further in Chapter 4.

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Use value is the value a specific property has for a specific use. In estimating use

value, the appraiser focuses on the value the real estate contributes to the

enterprise of which it is a part, without regard to the property's highest and best

use or the monetary amount that might be realized upon its sale.

As already discussed, market value, as opposed to use value, presupposes a value determined by

relevant market forces, such as supply and demand, scarcity, and utility, in a competitive market

in which the participants act prudently, rationally, knowledgeably, and for self-interest. These

market forces and the interactions of buyers and sellers ensure that market value will be the value

of the property when put to its most profitable or "highest and best" use.

Property tax appraisers in California, with certain exceptions set forth in the next chapter, are

required by the California Constitution, statutes, and regulations to appraise property at market

value. This requirement means that appraisals of both real and personal property must be based

on the most productive, or highest and best use of the property. A section in the following

chapter will discuss the issue of market value as opposed to use value in the context of appraising

limited-market properties.

OTHER VALUE CONCEPTS

PRICE, COST, AND VALUE

Appraisers should not confuse the concepts of price, cost, and value.

Price is the amount actually paid for a property in a particular transaction. Price is a historical

fact; it is not a prospective concept. The price paid is the amount a particular buyer has agreed to

pay and a particular seller has agreed to accept under the conditions surrounding their transaction.

Cost refers to production, not exchange. It is the expenditure required to produce property, such

as the cost of constructing a building. Cost can be a historical amount, a current amount, or a

prospective amount. Appraisers also distinguish among direct costs, indirect costs, and

development cost.

Direct costs are the expenditures for labor and materials, sometimes called hard costs, or brick

and mortar costs. Direct costs include the general contractor's overhead and profit, as well as

payments to subcontractors.

Indirect costs are expenditures for items other than labor and materials. Indirect costs include

administrative costs related to a project, professional fees (e.g., payments for architectural,

engineering, or legal services), construction financing costs, property taxes and insurance during

Appraisal Institute, The Appraisal of Real Estate, 24.

The principle of highest and best use is discussed further in Chapter 4. Briefly, highest and best use is the legally

permissible, physically possible, financially feasible or probable, and maximally productive use that produces the

highest residual land value. It is the use that produces the greatest long term net return to the owner.

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construction, and lease-up or absorption costs necessary to reach normal occupancy (e.g.,

marketing expenses, leasing commissions, or expenditures made by the property owner for tenant

improvements). Indirect costs are also called "soft costs."

Development cost is the all-inclusive cost necessary to develop the property. It includes all direct

and indirect costs, plus the cost of the land and the entrepreneurial profit (which may also be

viewed as a necessary cost) required by the developer to bring the project into existence.

The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal defines value in a general sense as "the monetary worth

of a property, good, or service to buyers and sellers at a given time."

In contrast to cost, the

concept of value has a prospective aspect, in that the value at a given time reflects an anticipation

of benefits to be received in the future.

The precise legal definition of value for property tax purposes in California is discussed in the

next chapter.

VALUE AS THE PRESENT WORTH OF FUTURE BENEFITS

In the income approach to value, which will be discussed in Chapter 6, the appraiser estimates

the value of income-producing property by converting the estimated future benefits of ownership

into an indicator of present value. The premise is that present value is a function of future

benefits or income. This leads to a definition of value as "the present worth of future benefits."

This definition of value is not inconsistent with other general definitions of value which have

been discussed, such as market value or use value. It is merely a different perspective. For

example, market value is determined in a market by the actions of buyers and sellers, but their

actions reflect their calculations regarding the expected future benefits or income of the property

traded based upon its most profitable or productive use.

VALUE AND THE PRICE LEVEL

Modern societies use money as a medium of exchange and a standard of value, with values

expressed in terms of money. However, it is important to remember that money itself changes in

value. The purchasing power of the United States dollar was quite different in 1986 than 1996.

Since the value of goods is measured and compared in terms of money, the real value of a good

may not have changed, even though its nominal value as measured in dollars has changed.

For example, if the dollar value of property "A" is $100,000 in 1986 and $150,000 in 1996, what

does this mean? It may mean that the real value of property "A" has increased. Alternatively, it

may mean that the value of money has decreased due to an increase in the general price level, and

that there has been no change in the real value of property "A" relative to other goods. It is

impossible to interpret what the difference in dollar measurements means unless the change in

the general price level is considered. If the general price level has changed, it is necessary to

adjust the dollar measurements of value from different time periods to determine the real change

Appraisal Institute, The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Third Edition, (Chicago: Appraisal Institute, 1993),

s.v. "value."

AH 501 January 2002 7

in value. This is typically done by inflating or deflating the dollar measurement of one of the

goods, typically by means of a price index, to the price level at which the other good is being

measured. It is important to remember that value is a real concept (in the sense of the exchange

of real goods) and not a money concept.

OTHER TYPES OF VALUE

A few additional types of value which the property tax appraiser may encounter are briefly

discussed below.

Assessed value is the value of property on the current tax roll, or the value that was on the

assessment roll for a particular tax year.

Book value is the amount (usually reduced by accounting depreciation charges) reflecting

property cost as shown on financial statements.

Investment value is the value of an investment to a particular investor, not to the market in

general. It is a variant of use value.

Going-concern value is generally the total value of an operating business enterprise. It includes

the value of the real property, tangible personal property (e.g., machinery and equipment), labor,

the marketing operation, and intangible assets and rights. It includes the incremental value of the

business concern, which is distinct from the value of the real property.

This subject is addressed

in depth in Assessors' Handbook Section 502, Advanced Appraisal.

Salvage value is the value of property at the end of its economic life in its present use.

Insurable value is the amount of insurance that should be carried on the destructible portion of

real estate to compensate the owner adequately in case of loss.

However, it is important to note that other sources use the term "going concern value" in different contexts; for

example, in Revenue and Taxation Code section 107.7(d), it is specific to the valuation of cable television interests;

under Revenue and Taxation Code section 110, it relates to the unit principle of valuation and the treatment of

intangible assets and rights; and in ITT World Communications, Inc. v. San Francisco (1985) 37 Cal. 3d 246, it

applies to the unitary assessment of public utilities where Proposition 13 is not applicable. (Unless otherwise

indicated, all references to "code" in this manual refer to the Revenue and Taxation Code; all references to "section"

or "sections" refer to sections of the Revenue and Taxation Code; and all references to "rule" or "rules" refer to the

Property Tax Rules found in Title 18 of the California Code of Regulations.)

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CHAPTER 2: STANDARD OF VALUE FOR PROPERTY TAX

APPRAISAL

FAIR MARKET VALUE STANDARD

In the appraisal of property for tax purposes, economic concepts of value must be reconciled with

value as defined in property tax law. The value standard for property tax purposes is market

value. However, the term "market value" is itself subject to some ambiguity. To resolve this

ambiguity, the Legislature and the courts have attempted to express the market value concept for

property tax purposes in precise terms.

Section 1 of article XIII of the California Constitution establishes the foundation for the fair

market value standard:

Unless otherwise provided by this Constitution or the laws of the United States.

(a) All property is taxable and shall be assessed at the same percentage of fair

market value. When a value standard other than fair market value is prescribed by

this Constitution or by statute authorized by this Constitution, the same percentage

shall be applied to determine the assessed value. The value to which the

percentage is applied, whether it be the fair market value or not, shall be known

for property tax purposes as the full value. (Emphasis added.)

In a benchmark decision, the California Supreme Court amplified the statutory definition of

market value as follows:

It provides, in other words, for an assessment at the price that property would

bring to its owner if it were offered for sale on an open market under conditions

which neither buyer nor seller could take advantage of the exigencies of the other.

It is a measure of desirability translated into money amounts…and might be called

the market value of property for use in its present condition.

The Legislature has expressed the concept of market value in sections 110 and 110.1. Section

110(a) states:

Except as is otherwise provided in Section 110.1, "full cash value" or "fair market

value" means the amount of cash or its equivalent that property would bring if

exposed for sale in the open market under conditions in which neither buyer nor

seller could take advantage of the exigencies of the other, and both the buyer and

seller have knowledge of all the uses and purposes to which the property is

Market value for property tax purposes is referred to in the code and rules as "fair market value," "full cash value,"

"cash value," "full value," or "actual value." These terms are used synonymously.

De Luz Homes, Inc. v. County of San Diego (1955) 45 Cal.2d 546.

AH 501 January 2002 9

adapted and for which it is capable of being used, and of the enforceable

restrictions upon those uses and purposes.

Subdivision (b) of section 110 establishes a rebuttable presumption that "full cash value" or "fair

market value," as defined in subdivision (a), shall be the actual purchase price if the terms were

negotiated under specified conditions reflecting an "open market transaction." Under subdivision

(c), this rebuttable presumption shall not apply where a taxpayer has failed to provide certain

information about the conditions of the transaction.

Subdivisions (d), (e), and (f) of section 110, added by legislation effective January 1, 1996,

provide the statutory expression of the concept that intangible assets and rights that relate to the

activities of a business may not enhance the value of taxable property. While intangible assets

and rights are not themselves taxable, property that is otherwise taxable may be valued by

assuming the presence of intangible assets or rights necessary to put the property to beneficial or

productive use.

Subdivisions (a) and (b) of section 110.1 define value as follows:

(a) For purposes of subdivision (a) of Section 2 of Article XIII A of the California

Constitution, 'full cash value' of real property, including possessory interests in

real property, means the fair market value as determined pursuant to Section 110

for either of the following:

(1) The 1975 lien date.

(2) For property which is purchased, is newly constructed, or changes ownership

after the 1975 lien date, either of the following:

(A) The date on which a purchase or change in ownership occurs.

(B) The date on which new construction is completed, and if uncompleted, on the

lien date.

(b) The value determined under subdivision (a) shall be known as the base year

value for the property.

Subdivisions (c) through (e) of section 110.1 provide for the establishment of 1975 base year

values. Subdivision (f) provides that once a base year value is established, it shall be annually

adjusted by an inflation factor not to exceed 2 percent.

Rule 2 interprets the above statutory definitions of market value, as follows:

In addition to the meaning ascribed to them in the Revenue and Taxation Code,

the words "full value," "full cash value," "cash value," "actual value," and "fair

market value" mean the price at which a property, if exposed for sale in the open

The inflation factor is determined pursuant to subdivision (a) of section 51.

AH 501 January 2002 10

market with a reasonable time for the seller to find a purchaser, would transfer for

cash or its equivalent under prevailing market conditions between parties who

have knowledge of the uses to which the property may be put, both seeking to

maximize their gains and neither being in a position to take advantage of the

exigencies of the other.

In short, market value is the value in exchange under certain stipulated conditions. Each selling

price an appraiser uses as an indicator of market value should be investigated to determine

whether these conditions were present at the time of the sale. If any of the conditions stipulated in

the definition of market value is absent, the appraiser must determine whether—and to what

extent—this influenced the selling price. Important aspects of the relationship between fair

market value and open market conditions covered in the above definitions are:

• The amount the property would bring in cash or its equivalent

• Exposure on an open market for a sufficient amount of time

• Neither the buyer nor the seller able to take advantage of the exigencies of the other

• Both parties seeking to maximize their gains

• Both buyer and the seller having full knowledge of the property and acting prudently

From the viewpoint of economics then, value is a ratio of exchange. Economic theory recognizes

that changes in this ratio of exchange are expressed in increased or decreased prices, and that the

same amount of a commodity commands a greater or smaller number of dollars. In formulating

the concept of market value in property tax law, the courts have stressed that this value is the

most probable price in terms of money. Thus, we have an economic concept and a legal concept

of value that are compatible.

APPRAISAL UNIT

Market value, with some exceptions, is the standard of valuation for property tax appraisals in

California. It follows that the property to which this standard is applied must be identified.

This identification of the property to be appraised is an integral part of the appraisal process.

Part of the process of identifying the property is identifying the "appraisal unit." The appraisal

unit is also referred to as the "unit to be appraised," "unit to be valued," "unit of appraisal," or

"unit of value."

In most cases the identification of the appraisal unit is obvious and causes few or no problems.

Since the objective of the appraisal is to determine the market value of the property, the market

also provides the appraisal unit. The proper unit to be valued is the unit that people in the market

typically buy and sell. For example, single family homes are sold as a combination of land and

buildings. Buyers and sellers do not negotiate separate prices for the land and the buildings but

The appraisal process is discussed in Chapter 5.

AH 501 January 2002 11

negotiate a price for the combination of the land and buildings. The combination of land and

buildings, therefore, comprises the appraisal unit, and the appraisal of this type of property must

reflect the value for this unit.

In some cases though, the identification of the appraisal unit may not be as easily discernible as

with single family homes. For example, unimproved residential subdivision lots may be sold

individually or in groups. Also, a farm property may consist of several parcels that could be sold

separately or as a single farm unit. In these cases, the appraiser must use judgment to determine

the proper unit. Decisions should be based on consideration of ownership, use, location, and,

most importantly, highest and best use. These decisions must reflect, as faithfully as possible, the

unit most likely to be sold if the property were exposed to the open market.

The necessity of defining the appraisal unit is common to all appraisals. The definition is more

problematic, however, with property tax appraisals. When an appraisal is made to obtain a loan,

for example, the appraisal unit is usually well defined by the lending institution ordering the

appraisal. The property tax appraisal, on the other hand, does not have the benefit of such a prior

definition. Also, property tax law imposes some requirements, limitations, and exceptions to the

general principles relating to the appraisal unit.

PRINCIPLE OF UNIT VALUATION

The principle of unit valuation is also based on the concept that the appraisal unit should be the

unit most likely to be bought and sold in the market. The market may value certain properties

according to the benefits that will be generated by the entire operating unit rather than the sum of

the values of the individual parts. This principle presumes that value accrues to the assets

because of their ability to generate benefits as a team rather than as a sum of the parts.

When using the principle of unit valuation, the appraiser segregates the operations (revenues and

expenses) and the assets of the owner that operate as a team or as an aggregate from unrelated

operations and assets. The team assets are called "unitary" property and are appraised as a whole,

while unrelated assets are called "nonunitary" and are appraised as separate appraisal units.

This principle does not create any substitute for the fair market value standard discussed

throughout this manual and is consistent with the discussion above. Appraisers usually refer to

the unit concept when appraising a multi-parcel ranch but refer to the principle of unit valuation

when appraising properties of a type that are geographically extensive or operationally integrated,

such as railroads, gas and electric, and telephone companies that cross county lines, or large

industrial or mineral operations.

California property tax law requires separate assessments of land and improvements but does not require separate

appraisals of these different components of a property. The separate assessment of land and improvements is usually

an allocation of the total value of the appraisal unit, which, in the case of a single family residence, is the

combination of the land and buildings (improvements).

For example, under section 51(b) and rule 461(e), when considering declines in value caused by a calamity, land,

improvements, and fixtures are separate appraisal units. Similarly, the Legislature declared leach pads, tailing

facilities, and settling ponds on mining property to be separate appraisal units for valuation purposes, pursuant to

section 53.5.

The practical difference between appraising a ranch and appraising, for example, an interstate

telephone company is that when appraising a ranch, the appraiser can usually find units of

comparison that provide direct indicators of market value of the taxable property, such as sales

and rents of similar ranches. When appraising a telephone company, the unit valuation process

begins with analysis of data relating to the entire telephone operating unit, including all the

taxable tangible property, nontaxable tangible property, and nontaxable intangible assets and

rights that are used to generate benefits. The appraiser then has to make a variety of adjustments

so that the fair market value of any nontaxable property (i.e., intangible assets and rights and

nontaxable tangible property) within the unit is removed. Of course, as is true with any other

property, the taxable property is valued by assuming the presence of the intangible assets and

rights necessary to put the taxable property to beneficial or productive use.

The principle of unit valuation is used by the State Board of Equalization (SBE or Board) when

appraising properties it is required to assess pursuant to article XIII, section 19, of the California

Constitution, such as public utilities and railroads. Section 723 specifically provides, "[t]he board

may use the principle of unit valuation in valuing properties of an assessee that are operated as a

unit."

STAGE OF PRODUCTION

Economic goods develop into finished goods, that is, goods used by the ultimate consumer. The

development process can be divided into stages or levels of production. At each stage, utility is

added to the goods. Economists call this production. The producers add utility of one or more of

the following types: form, place, time, and ownership.

A business firm that turns a log into finished lumber changes the form of the substance and

creates form utility. A firm that transports the finished lumber from the mill to the lumber yard

creates place utility. If a firm stores or holds lumber from one date to a later date when the

lumber has a greater capacity to satisfy human wants, it creates time utility. Individuals engaged

in activities that transfer ownership of goods are increasing the capacity of the commodities to

satisfy human wants. Some economists call this type of commerce the creation of ownership

utility.

While the economic principles of production apply generally to all economic goods, certain basic

differences between real property and personal property complicate the application of these

principles in the appraisal process. The stage of production concept applies equally to real and

personal property until the final form of the product is achieved. Personal property or consumer

goods then follow a precise, easily definable marketing pattern from production to final

consumption. At each stage or level of production, a measurable amount of utility is added,

although a stage of production in this sense is better termed a "trade level" since the product does

not actually change form as it passes from manufacturer to consumer via wholesaler and retailer.

The changes in utility encompass changes in place, time, and ownership and are reflected

primarily through the change in the size of the market unit traded at each level. In regard to real

property, however, trade level is virtually the same as the appraisal unit. When the appraiser

determines the unit to be appraised, the trade level of that real estate is reflected in the appraisal

AH 501 January 2002 13

unit. The appraiser's decision thereby captures the most probable unit to be traded on the market

based on the data supporting that decision.

In distinguishing between the terms "trade level" and "stage of production" as they apply to the

appraisal process, rule 10 uses trade level to denote any specific level within the standard

production and marketing framework for tangible personal property and provides that property

shall be valued according to its trade level. Stage of production is an all-encompassing economic

term readily applicable to real property to indicate a stage of physical development at a specific

time. For example, land being developed as a subdivision will pass through various stages of

production as the bare land is converted into residential sites. Although the trade level concept is

not generally applicable to real property, a property's physical stage of production is vitally

important in the appraisal of real property. Once the unit to be appraised is defined, the stage of

production governs what level of market data is relevant in determining the final value estimate.

The property must be valued according to its stage of production.

One further requirement must be considered when establishing a property's stage of production.

By law, the assessor must value all locally assessable real property as of: (1) the date of the

change in ownership; (2) the lien date during the course of construction; (3) the date of

completion of new construction; or (4) March 1, 1975, whichever is later. The appraiser must

determine the stage of production at that point in time.

VALUATION OF LIMITED MARKET PROPERTIES

Ordinarily, determining market value, while not easy, is a relatively straightforward process of

examining property transactions that take place in the market and inferring value indicators for

the property being appraised from the examined data. For some unique properties, however, there

is a very small market. In these cases, there is little or no market data from which to draw value

inferences. Such properties are called "limited market" properties. The Appraisal of Real Estate

states:

A limited-market property is a property that has relatively few potential buyers at

a particular time. It may be a limited-market property because of unique design

features or changing market conditions. Large manufacturing plants, railroad

sidings, and research and development properties are examples of limited-market

properties that typically appeal to relatively few potential purchasers.

When appraising a type of property that is not commonly sold or rented, the issue of market

value as opposed to use value may arise. Limited-market properties should be appraised at

market value based on their current use or the most likely alternative use. The appraiser should

assume that there is a market composed of potential buyers and sellers who would use the

property in a manner similar to the way the present owner uses it, unless it is clearly apparent that

Appraisal Institute, The Appraisal of Real Estate, 25.

AH 501 January 2002 14

the market would adapt the property to an alternative use. The appraiser should consider the

potential uses to which the property would be put if sold, ultimately making the use

determination based on the highest and best use of the property. Limited market properties may

require consideration of a wider geographic market. For instance, a property use not common in

the immediate region may be the highest and best use and may require comparison on an

industrywide basis. The market may be national or international in scope. If the appraiser

determines that the property's use would remain the same, the market value for property tax

purposes should be estimated based upon the present use. If the property's use would likely

change to an alternative use, the value for property tax purposes should be based upon the

alternative use.

As part of the highest and best use determination, the appraiser should study economic data

relating to the business or industry of the owner and should estimate the likelihood that the

current owner or a similar owner would continue the present use of the property. A

knowledgeable owner in a stable or growing industry increases the likelihood that the owner

would continue the present use or that a purchaser would do so. A less competent owner in a

weak industry, on the other hand, may indicate that a change in use is likely.

The utility of the property for its intended use should also be studied in the context of highest and

best use. Most properties, other than new state-of-the-art facilities, suffer some functional

problems that are not serious enough to render the improvements obsolete and in danger of an

imminent change of use. Severe functional problems with a property, however, may signal an

impending change in use.

After studying these elements, if the appraiser determines that the current use of a limited-market

property is the highest and best use and that this use is likely to continue, it is appropriate to

consider the current use value (i.e., the value of the property based upon its current use) as the

property's market value. If, on the other hand, the appraiser determines that the current use is not

the highest and best use and that this use is not likely to continue, the property must be appraised

based upon the alternative use that is the highest and best use.

Several court cases demonstrate how the concepts discussed above have been applied. In Michael

Todd Co. v. Los Angeles County (1962) 57 Cal.2d 684, the assessor had valued the original

negative of a successful motion picture based on its depreciated production costs, while the

taxpayer asserted that, since the copyright could not be assessed, the value of the negative should

be a mere $1,000, representing the salvage or scrap value of the film. In upholding the assessed

valuation, the court stated that market value for assessment purposes is the value of property

when put to beneficial use and is not the residual value remaining when the property is reduced

to its constituent elements (e.g., a film negative should be valued as a motion picture, not merely

as film). However, citing De Luz Homes, Inc. v. County of San Diego (1955) 45 Cal.2d 546, the

court further noted that the absence of an "actual market" for a particular type of property does

not mean that the property has no value or that it may escape the constitutional mandate that all

property shall be taxed according to its value, but only that the assessor must utilize other

pertinent factors such as replacement cost and income analysis in making the valuation.

AH 501 January 2002 15

In Pacific Mutual Life Insurance Company v. Orange County (1985) 187 Cal.App.3d 1141, the

court held that when a property has extra value only to the particular owner, such as a prestigious

"landmark" type building, it is improper to use a method of valuation designed solely to capture

its utility to the property owner. In this case, an insurance company's home office, a "monument"

type building, was appraised by the assessor using the reproduction cost approach. The court

stated that income data from other office buildings were available and should have been used and

that "using a method of valuation designed solely to capture the specific utility of property to a

particular owner is contrary to law," where the building was not so unique that it could not be

considered as an ordinary office building for normal uses.

In contrast to the Pacific Mutual case, in McDonnell Douglas Corporation v. County of Los

Angeles (1990) 219 Cal.App.3d 715, the court held that a property owned by an aircraft

manufacturer and located next to a major airport was not valued based on its unique value to that

manufacturer when it was appraised as an aviation industrial property. Rather, since prospective

purchasers would likely use the property for aviation industrial purposes, the property had

properly been appraised based on its general value in the marketplace. The court stated that it

was correct to consider the property's "peculiarly suitable location" in conjunction with

determining its highest and best use, which in this case was for aviation industrial purposes. The

court noted that the appeals board was entitled to consider the prior and current uses of the

property in making a determination of the highest and best use.

In summary, California law requires the property tax appraiser to appraise all property at market

value. Market value for assessment purposes is not the value when the property is broken down

into its constituent elements, but the value when the property is put to beneficial use. The

absence of an actual market does not mean that a property may escape taxation. Property must be

appraised for assessment purposes at its highest and best use as recognized in the market for such

properties. Also, the appraiser may not use a method of valuation designed solely to capture the

specific utility of a property to a particular owner, but may consider location and other current

characteristics of the property that would be recognized in the general marketplace when

determining the highest and best use of the property and in estimating its market value to

potential purchasers.

EXCEPTIONS TO THE FAIR MARKET VALUE STANDARD

In appraising for property tax purposes, there are certain exceptions to the fair market value

standard. These fall under the "restricted value" concept, as defined in rule 460(b)(3):

Restricted value means a value standard other than full cash value prescribed by

the Constitution or by statute authorized by the Constitution.

This captures the meaning of use value as defined in Chapter 1.

AH 501 January 2002 16

For properties subject to a restricted value standard, the law sets aside the general concept of fair

market value in favor of specific value limitations. In some cases, the appraisal formula is a

compensation for the owner's agreement to limit the future use of the property; that is, the

property value is premised on the restricted use rather than the most profitable or productive

use.

The types of restricted value properties are discussed below.

OPEN SPACE PROPERTY

In 1965, the Legislature enacted the California Land Conservation Act (CLCA, or Williamson

Act) in an attempt to preserve agricultural lands for the production of food and fiber products.

The act provided for the creation of "agricultural preserves" and for certain contractual

agreements between property owners and counties. Such agreements limit the use of lands to

agricultural purposes for a specified number of years. The Legislature's action was ratified by the

electorate in 1966. Subsequent legislation prohibited the assessor's use of sales information on

property subject to open-space restrictions and required an appraisal based only upon a property's

income-producing ability. A property subject to open-space restrictions is now assessed at the

lowest of: (1) its restricted value (its value determined by income capitalization with a nonmarket

rate); (2) its factored base year value; or (3) its current market value. Legislation adopted in 1998

added a further reduction in assessment for land restricted by contract for a term of 20 years and

designated as a "farmland security zone" per section 423.4.

In 1973, wildlife habitats were added to the list of lands subject to open-space restriction

agreements. The Legislature decided that these properties are to be valued by a "restricted

comparative sales approach."

Beginning with legislation adopted in 1974 special appraisal consideration must also be given to

qualifying open space easements granted to a city, county, specified district or nonprofit

organization, or regional park, as defined in section 421(e). In 1994, the Legislature added

conservation, trail or scenic easements granted to a public agency or a nonprofit corporation to

section 402.1(a), requiring appraisers to consider the effect of such enforceable restrictions on the

use to which the land may be subjected. Effective in 1996, new provisions codified in sections

421.5 and 422.5 authorize for special appraisal consideration agricultural conservation easements

as enforceably restricted properties. Scenic restrictions must conform to the criteria set forth in

the statutes. Section 8 of article XIII of the California Constitution and sections 421 through

430.5 pertain to the valuation of open space properties.

HISTORICAL PROPERTIES

Owners of certain historical or architecturally significant properties may also benefit from

limitations placed on the assessor's valuation.

The property must be on the National Register of Historic Places or in a historic district. If not,

the property can still qualify if it is listed on the official register of the state, a county, or a city as

a historic or architecturally significant site, place, or landmark.

The concept of highest and best use is discussed in Chapter 4.

AH 501 January 2002 17

The owner must enter into a contract with a city or county that provides for the preservation of

the property for a specified period of time. The contract may also call for the owner to restore or

rehabilitate the property in conformance with the rules and regulations of the Office of Historic

Preservation of the Department of Parks and Recreation, with the contract binding on any

successor to the owner.

When valuing restricted historical property, an assessor may not consider sales information on

similar property. Instead, the property must be valued by the capitalization of annual income

method set forth in the statute.

Section 8 of article XIII of the California Constitution and sections 439 through 439.4 pertain to

the valuation of historical properties. Section 439.2 is explicit in its instructions as to the

estimation of the income to be capitalized and the rate used to capitalize the income.

CERTAIN GOLF COURSES

Section 10 of article XIII of the California Constitution places limits on the manner in which the

assessor may value certain golf courses. A golf course qualifies for special appraisal treatment if

the real property consists of a parcel of 10 acres or more and has been used exclusively for non-

profit purposes for at least 24 consecutive months before the lien date. Although the assessor

may use all traditional appraisal approaches, no factors other than those relative to a golf course

use may be considered. The appraisal must be based upon its use as a golf course even if the

property has realistic potential at a higher and better use. The assessor must consider the value of

any rights to minerals upon the property.

Golf courses that qualify for the treatment described above receive the benefit of both the base

year value provisions of Proposition 13 and the restricted valuation treatment. Thus, proper

appraisal of qualified nonprofit golf courses means that not only are annual increases in base year

value limited to a maximum of 2 percent, but also the value to which those annual increases is

applied is determined according to a restricted value standard under article XIII, section 10,

rather than fair market value.

CERTAIN SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCES

Section 9 of article XIII of the California Constitution and section 401.4 place a restriction on the

valuation of certain owner-occupied single-family residences. The dwelling must be the owner's

principal place of residence, and the land must be zoned either exclusively for single-family

residential use or for an agricultural use that permits single-family residences. The provision

prevents such properties from being assessed at any value greater than that reflecting single-

family use of the site.

TAXABLE GOVERNMENT-OWNED PROPERTY

Under certain circumstances, land and improvements that are owned by local governments but

are located outside their boundaries are taxable. Article XIII, section 11 of the California

Los Angeles Country Club et al v. Tax Assessor of the County of Los Angeles (1985) 175 Cal.App.3d 278

AH 501 January 2002 18

Constitution generally provides that lands, water rights, and any other interests in lands owned by

a local government that are outside its boundaries are taxable if they were taxable when acquired

by the local government. Section 11 also provides that improvements owned by a local

government are taxable if they were taxable when acquired or were constructed by the public

owner to replace improvements that were taxable when acquired. Whether land or improvements,

these taxable government-owned properties are generally referred to as "Section 11" properties

and are subject to a special valuation procedures prescribed by section 11.

TIMBERLAND PRODUCTION ZONES

Lands in a Timberland Production Zone (TPZ) are subject to 10-year contractual restrictions.

Specifically, land use within a TPZ is restricted to growing and harvesting timber and compatible

uses approved by the county. In return, valuation of timberland under a TPZ is based on the

restricted use. Section 435 pertains to the valuation of TPZ properties.

AH 501 January 2002 19

CHAPTER 3: PROPERTY CONCEPTS

"PROPERTY" DEFINED

"Property" includes all matter and things, real, personal, and mixed, capable of private

ownership. Real property includes the possession of, the claim to, the ownership of, and the right

to the possession of land and improvements. Personal property includes all property except real

property. The concept of property is much more than a property's physical description. Property

includes the concepts of property rights and property ownership. The definition of property,

contained in the provisions relating to property taxation in the code, controls the classification

of property for tax purposes.

The concepts of property, rights, and ownership are thus closely linked. In addition to its physical

nature, property includes the rights that are legally associated with property, and the ownership of

one or more rights in property. A succinct definition of property is that it is anything capable of

being owned, including the thing itself, the legal property rights in that thing, and the ownership

of the thing and its associated rights.

From a strict legal viewpoint, property is defined as an aggregate of rights that are guaranteed

and protected by the government. Property is the highest right an individual can have to lands or

tenements, goods or chattels, which does not depend on another person's courtesy. Ownership is

the collection of rights to use and enjoy property, including the right to transfer it to others.

Thus, in one sense, property is used to indicate one's exclusive right, title, or control of a thing to

the exclusion of others, and in another sense, property is used to designate the thing in which

there is possession or ownership.

The fundamental rights associated with property ownership are the rights to possession, control,

enjoyment, and disposition (or transfer). The right of possession refers to the right to exclusive

occupancy. The right of control concerns the right to alter the property physically. The right of

enjoyment protects the property owner from interference from others. The right of disposition

refers to the right to transfer, or convey, the rights in the property, in whole or in part.

The existence of property implies the existence of the social institution of law, which defines

property and provides the vehicle for society's enforcement of property rights. In order for the

concept of property to have significance, the property object must have economic value.

An important distinction in a free enterprise economy is made between public and private

property. Private property is owned and controlled by individuals or groups for their exclusive

use. Public property is owned and controlled by government vesting no exclusive use in any

individual or group.

Property is divided into two primary categories: real property and personal property. Real

property refers to ownership interests in land, whatever is growing upon or affixed to land, and to

Black's Law Dictionary, Fifth Edition, s.v. "property" and "ownership."

AH 501 January 2002 20

fixtures. (A fixture is an item that was once personal property but has been attached to an item of

real property in such a manner that it is regarded in law as real property.) Personal property, as

noted, is defined as all property that is not real property. The statutory definitions of property

under California property tax law are provided in the sections below.

WHAT PROPERTY IS TAXABLE?

Section 1 of article XIII of the California Constitution states that "[a]ll property is taxable and

shall be assessed at the same percentage of fair market value." Section 201 further provides that

"[a]ll property in this State, not exempt under the laws of the United States or of this State, is

subject to taxation under this code."

Thus, all property not exempted under federal or California law is subject to taxation.

Exemptions of real property are contained in the California Constitution, which does not grant to

the Legislature the discretion to exempt real property. However, pursuant to section 2, article

XIII, the Legislature has the authority to exempt personal property by a two-thirds vote of both

houses.This is one reason that the distinction between real and personal property is important.

TAXABLE REAL PROPERTY

Section 103 defines property all inclusively: "'Property' includes all matters and things, real,

personal, and mixed, capable of private ownership." This definition is more comprehensive than

definitions found in other provisions of California law.

The definition of real property is also broad and is not limited to fee interests.

Section 104

provides:

"Real estate" or "real property" includes:

(a) The possession of, claim to, ownership of, or right to the possession of land.

(b) All mines, minerals, and quarries in the land, all standing timber whether or

not belonging to the owner of the land, and all rights and privileges appertaining

thereto.

Contrary to common appraisal usage, the above code section defines "real estate" and "real

property" synonymously. Real estate and realty in appraisal practice are commonly used to refer

to the actual physical object, that is, land and buildings, for example, rather than the ownership

right in the object, which is real property. The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, for example,

defines real estate as "the physical land and appurtenances attached to the land, e.g., structures.

An identified parcel or tract of land, including improvements, if any."

Property interests are discussed in a later section of this chapter.

Appraisal Institute, The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, s.v. "real estate."

AH 501 January 2002 21

Taxable forms of real property include, but are not limited to, the following: land; improvements;

fixtures; improvements located on tax exempt land; possessory interests in publicly owned real

property; timber, mineral, and water rights. These are discussed generally below. Assessors'

Handbook Section 504, Assessment of Personal Property and Fixtures contains an expanded

discussion of the classification of property for property tax purposes.

Land

One ordinarily thinks of land as the dirt a farmer tills or the natural property upon which people

erect buildings. For property tax purposes, "land" also includes such things as proved petroleum

reserves, mines, quarries, proved geothermal reserves, natural vegetation, natural trees, standing

timber, air rights, water rights, unpaved roads, wells, alfalfa, and artichokes.

Rule 121 provides a definition and description of land, but not a strict definition. Rather, land is

said to consist of the ownership interests in it, that is, the possession, claim to, ownership, or

right to possession.

Rule 124 provides typical examples of items normally classified as land or as improvements.

This rule requires a careful reading in borderline cases, and the assessor may not follow it only

when there are persuasive distinguishing facts that warrant other classification.

The California Constitution requires that land and improvements be separately assessed.

The

proper classification of real property as land or improvements is often an important issue with

certain plants and agricultural developments to land. Although a detailed discussion of the

classification issue involving land and improvements is beyond the scope of this manual, it is

important to recognize that this issue is sometimes complex and, in many cases, can have a

significant effect on current and future assessments and property taxes.

In some instances, for

example, special taxes may apply to improvements but not to land. Thus, proper classification is

important both because the law requires it and because of the tax consequences of the

classification.

Improvements

Section 105 provides:

"Improvements" includes:

(a) All buildings, structures, fixtures, and fences erected on or affixed to the land.

(b) All fruit, nut bearing, or ornamental trees and vines, not of natural growth, and

not exempt from taxation, except date palms under eight years of age."

Rule 122 contains the criteria for determining what constitutes an improvement. The rule draws a

fine distinction between the definition of land and improvements.

California Constitution, article XIII, section 13.

For a discussion on classification of property see Chapter 2 of the Assessors' Handbook Section 504, Assessment

of Personal Property and Fixtures.

AH 501 January 2002 22

Fixtures

Fixtures is a category of improvements that is often troublesome because, in many cases, it is

difficult to determine whether an item is a fixture or personal property. A fixture is classified as

real property. Because of possible differences in the taxation of real property and personal

property, classification as a fixture may be significant.

Rule 122.5(a) defines "fixtures" and sets forth three tests for determining what constitutes a

fixture as opposed to an improvement:

(1) A fixture is an item of tangible property, the nature of which was originally

personalty, but which is classified as realty for property tax purposes because it is

physically or constructively annexed to realty with the intent that it remain

annexed indefinitely.

(2) The manner of annexation, the adaptability of the item to the purpose for

which the realty is used, and the intent with which the annexation is made are

important elements in deciding whether an item has become a fixture or remains

personal property. Proper classification, as a fixture or as personal property,

results from a determination made by applying the criteria of this rule to the facts

in each case.

(3) The phrase "annexed indefinitely" means the item is intended to remain

annexed until worn out, until superseded by a more suitable replacement, or until

the purpose to which the realty is devoted has been accomplished or materially

altered.

Although a complete discussion of classification as a fixture is beyond the scope of this manual,

it is important to develop a framework for applying the three tests in rule 122.5. The first test,

described in subdivision (b), concerns whether or not the item is physically annexed to the land

or improvements. In applying the physical annexation test, the question is whether the item is

permanently installed or cannot be removed without substantial damage. Rule 122.5(b)(1) states

that "[p]roperty is physically annexed if it is attached to, embedded in, or permanently resting

upon land or improvements in accordance with section 660 of the Civil Code, or by other means

that are normally used for permanent installation." Subdivision (b)(2) provides further that

"[p]roperty may be considered physically annexed if the weight, the size, or both are such that

relocation or removal of the property would be so difficult that the item appears to be intended to

remain in place indefinitely."

The second test, described in subdivision (c), relates to the purpose of the item, that is, whether

or not the item is a necessary or working part of the real property. Under the constructive

annexation test, the question is whether the item "is a necessary, integral, or working part of the

realty," even though it is not physically attached. The concept of constructive annexation is

closely related to the adaptability test noted above.

AH 501 January 2002 23

The third test, described in subdivision (d) and by far the most important, is the intent of the

owner in annexing the fixture. Since the primary test is the intent of the owner, the question is

whether the owner intends to leave the property annexed to the underlying property when it is

sold. Intent is manifested by the appearance of the property indicating that the item will remain

annexed indefinitely. Rule 122.5(d)(1) states that "[i]f the appearance of the item indicates that it

is intended to remain annexed indefinitely, the item is a fixture for property tax purposes. Intent

must be inferred from what is reasonably manifested by outward appearance."

Numerous examples of fixtures are given in rule 122.5(e). These include a huge printing press, so

large that it cannot be moved without substantial damage to the building; a walkway and stair

permanently bolted to a large machine; or a vault door in a bank.

Improvements Located on Tax Exempt Land

Improvements placed on governmentally owned tax exempt land for a private individual's use

and purposes are taxable. Thus, private individuals or entities that lease federal, state, or locally

owned lands and any improvements on such lands must pay property tax based on the value of

their possessory interest. This is not inconsistent with the immunity principle for federal lands,

since taxation is based on the value of the possessor's interest in the property and improvements.

An exception is private property on land that is recognized as a federal enclave; such property is

exempt regardless of ownership or use.

In regard to the taxable value of the improvements on tax exempt land, it is sometimes necessary

to determine whether title to the improvements is with the federal, state, or local government that

owns the land, or whether title is with the private lessee. While improvements are generally part

of the land, there is a question in cases where the lessee constructed the improvements. The

answer depends on the terms contained in the lease agreement between the government and the

lessee and whether the lessee has the right to remove the improvements at the end of the lease

term. California statutes and application of the general legal doctrine of accession require that

permanent improvements to land become part of the land itself, unless the lessor and lessee have

agreed otherwise and have given the lessee the right to remove the improvements. For this

reason, the lease agreement is important.

Possessory Interests

Possessory interests are defined in section 107. For property tax purposes, a taxable possessory

interest is a right to possess or use publicly-owned real property. Section 107 states, in part:

In Crocker National Bank v. City and County of San Francisco (1989) 49 Cal.3d 881, the California Supreme

Court held that bank electronic data processing equipment not physically attached to the building by permanent

connections, but merely by standardized "quick disconnect" plugs inserted into the power source, was not a fixture

but personalty where: (1) neither the equipment nor the building was designed or modified for each other and factors

showing a lack of annexation; and (2) adaptability were not outweighed by other objective manifestations of

permanence (i.e., the interrelation between the purpose and structural form of the building and the capacity and

physical characteristics of the equipment, and the equipment's weight and size).

A federal enclave is property over which the federal government retains exclusive jurisdiction.

AH 501 January 2002 24

"Possessory interests" means the following:

(a) Possession of, claim to, or right to the possession of land or improvements that

is independent, durable, and exclusive of rights held by others in the property,

except when coupled with ownership of the land or improvements in the same

person. For the purpose of this subdivision:

(1) "Independent" means the ability to exercise authority and exert control over

the management or operation of the property or improvements, separate and apart

from the policies, statutes, ordinances, rules, and regulations of the public owner

of the property or improvements. A possession or use is independent if the

possession or operation of the property is sufficiently autonomous to constitute

more than a mere agency.

(2) "Durable" means for a determinable period with a reasonable certainty that the

use, possession, or claim with respect to the property or improvements will

continue for that period.

(3) "Exclusive" means the enjoyment of a beneficial use of land or improvements,

together with the ability to exclude from occupancy by means of legal process

others who may interfere with that enjoyment. For purposes of this paragraph,

"exclusive use" includes the following types of use in property:

(A) Sole occupancy or use of property or improvements.

(B) Use as a co-tenant.

property or improvements at any time.

(D) Concurrent uses by persons making qualitatively different uses of property or

improvements.

(E) Concurrent use by persons engaged in similar uses that diminish the quantity

or quality of the property or improvements.

(F) Concurrent use that does not diminish the quantity or quality of the property or

improvements, if the number of those concurrent use grants is restricted.

A use of property or improvements that does not contain one of the elements in

subparagraphs (A) to (F), inclusive, shall be rebuttably presumed to be a

nonexclusive use.

(b) Taxable improvements on tax-exempt land.

A taxable possessory interest is a possessory interest in publicly owned real property. Typically,

the fee interest is owned by the federal, state, or a local government. Taxable possessory interests

AH 501 January 2002 25

are appraised and assessed separately from the publicly-owned fee simple interest. A possessory

interest located within an area in which the United States has exclusive jurisdiction (so-called

"federal enclaves") is excluded from the meaning of "taxable possessory interest" and is immune

from taxation. In the context of a taxable possessory interest, "possession" of real property is

defined under rule 20(c)(2).

For example, a lessee of real property from an entity of government holds a taxable possessory

interest in publicly owned real property. The person holds limited rights, not the full bundle of

rights a fee owner holds, and holds these rights usually for a limited duration, as a conveyance

from the governmental entity.

Mineral Rights and Timber

Real property includes "[a]ll mines, minerals, and quarries in the land, all standing timber

whether or not belonging to the owner of the land, and all rights and privileges appertaining

thereto."

Mineral rights held as possessory interests are taxable real property. Oil and gas leases are

specifically excluded from the definition of possessory interests, but the value of oil and gas

proved reserves is taxable real property.

Standing timber is now generally exempt from an ad valorem property tax.

The ad valorem tax

on timber was replaced with a timber yield tax under a 1974 constitutional amendment and

subsequent legislation.

Under this system, timber is taxed at the time of harvest to the timber

owner.

Water Rights

A water right is the legal right to take water and put it to reasonable and beneficial use. The types

of water rights recognized under California law and court decisions include riparian, overlying,

appropriative, and pueblo rights. Water rights are often ancillary to the land. The value of the

land often includes the value of the water rights, and, in most cases, water rights are not

separately assessed. In some cases, however, it may be necessary to separately value and assess

water rights, such as where the rights belong to a water company or are appurtenant to other

property.

The subject of water rights is complex. A discussion of the types of water rights and their

valuation is set forth in Part II of section 542 of the Assessors' Handbook, Assessment of Water

Companies and Water Rights.

Section 104(b).

Section 107.

"Ad valorem" means according to or based on value.

California Constitution, article XIII, section 3(j); section 38101 et seq.

AH 501 January 2002 26

Transferable Development Rights

The Appraisal of Real Estate defines a transferable development right as "a development right

that is separated from a landowner's bundle of rights and transferred, generally by sale, to another

landowner in the same or a different area."

Buyers of transferable development rights (TDRs)

may use the rights to develop at higher densities than zoning regulations might otherwise allow.

Ownership of TDRs is a taxable property interest, and the conveyance of TDRs is a change of

ownership requiring reappraisal of this property interest for property tax purposes.

TAXABLE PERSONAL PROPERTY

Section 106 provides that "'[p]ersonal property' includes all property except real estate." Thus,

personal property is defined as all property other than real property.

Regarding the taxation of personal property, the California Constitution, article 13, section 2

states:

The Legislature may provide for property taxation of all forms of tangible

personal property, shares of capital stock, evidences of indebtedness, and any

legal or equitable interest therein not exempt under any other provision of this

article. The Legislature, two-thirds of the membership of each house concurring,

may classify such personal property for differential taxation or for exemption. The

tax on any interest in notes, debentures, shares of capital stock, bonds, solvent

credits, deeds of trust, or mortgages shall not exceed four-tenths of one percent of

full value, and the tax per dollar of full value shall not be higher on personal

property than on real property in the same taxing jurisdiction.

As noted earlier, in contrast to real property, the Legislature has the power to exempt personal

property from taxation or to allow differential taxation of personal property.

Tangible Personal Property

Rule 123 defines tangible personal property as "[a]ll property that may be seen, weighed,

measured, felt, or touched, or which is in any other manner perceptible to the senses, except land

and improvements…." In general, all tangible personal property is taxable. Exceptions include

business inventories, household furnishings, and pets. Manufactured housing not affixed to a

permanent foundation is classified as personal property and is subject to local property taxation

(except for manufactured homes sold prior to July 1, 1980, and still under license).

Appraisal Institute, The Appraisal of Real Estate, 148.

The fair market value of TDRs may be estimated using the comparative sales and/or the income approach. These

approaches to value are discussed in Chapter 6. The base year values of both the seller's and the buyer's properties

may be affected by a transfer of such rights. See also Mitsui Fudosan v. Los Angeles County (1990) 219 Cal.App.3d

525, Letter To Assessors 91/12 regarding transferable development rights.

The assessment of manufactured housing shares many of the concepts of real property assessment. See section

5800 et seq. The assessment of manufactured housing is discussed in Chapter 8 of this handbook section and in

Assessors' Handbook Section 511, Assessment of Manufactured Homes and Parks.

AH 501 January 2002 27

Treatment of Intangible Assets and Rights

Intangible assets and rights include, but are not limited to, incorporeal (non-material) items such

as notes, shares of stock, copyrights, patents, and enterprise or goodwill values. Article XIII,

section 2, of the California Constitution exempts all intangible property not listed therein. Under

that section, the Legislature may provide for the taxation of certain types of intangible personal

property. Under section 212 of the code, taxable property may be assessed and valued by

assuming the presence of those intangible assets or rights necessary to put the property to

beneficial and productive use.

Section 212 states, in part:

(a) Notes, debentures, shares of capital stock, solvent credits, bonds, deeds of

trust, mortgages, and any interest in that property are exempt from taxation.

(b) Money kept on hand to be used in the ordinary and regular course of a trade,

profession, or business is exempt from taxation.

provided in the following sentence, the value of intangible assets and rights shall

not enhance or be reflected in the value of taxable property. Taxable property may

be assessed and valued by assuming the presence of intangible assets or rights

necessary to put the taxable property to beneficial or productive use.

Subdivisions (d), (e), and (f) of section 110 also provide guidance regarding the treatment of

intangible assets and rights. Subdivision (d) provides that: (1) the value of intangible assets and

rights relating to the going concern value of a business using taxable property shall not enhance

or be reflected in the value of the taxable property; (2) if the principle of unit valuation is used to

value properties that are operated as a unit, then the fair market value of the taxable property

contained within the unit shall be determined by removing from the value of the unit the fair

market value of the intangible assets and rights contained within the unit; and (3) the exclusive

nature of a concession, franchise, or similar agreement is an intangible asset that shall not

enhance the value of taxable property, including real property.

However, in applying the above principles, it is important to note that the Legislature stated at the

beginning of subdivision (d) that its provisions are expressly subject to the language in

subdivision (e). Subdivision (e) repeats the language used in section 212(c), and states: "Taxable

property may be assessed and valued by assuming the presence of intangible assets or rights

necessary to put the property to beneficial or productive use."

Finally, subdivision (f) of section 110 provides that for the purpose of determining "full cash

value" or "fair market value," any intangible attributes of real property shall be reflected in the

AH 501 January 2002 28

value of the real property, and that these attributes include zoning, location, and other such

attributes that relate directly to the real property involved.

Possessory Interests in Personal Property

There is only one situation where a taxable possessory interest exists in personal property; all

other possessory interests concern real property only. Section 201.5 provides that possessory

interest in property acquired by or for the California Pollution Control Financing Authority,

whether personal or real property, shall be subject to taxation.

EXEMPT PROPERTY

Sections 3 through 5 of article XIII of the California Constitution list the exemptions from real

property taxation. Specific categories of exemptions are set forth in the Revenue and Taxation

Code and are located at section 202 and following. There are more than 100 property tax

exemptions, 30 of which require claims to be filed and the others requiring notification to the

assessor. In some cases, the exemption may be for a partial rather than a full value of the

property.

In addition, certain property, while not exempt, is given preferential treatment through special

assessment ratios or methods of valuation. For example, certain commercial sportfishing vessels

are appraised for assessment purposes at only 4 percent of their fair market value, and other

properties, the "restricted properties" such as open space lands, historical properties, etc.,

discussed in Chapter 2, are appraised using a value standard based on the restricted or permitted

use rather than fair market value.

For a complete discussion of the exemptions from the property tax, reference to the constitutional

and statutory sources previously noted and to other sections of the Assessors' Handbook is

advised.

IMMUNE PROPERTY

The United States Constitution restricts the power of a state to tax federal property. These

restrictions are treated as immunities from taxation, as distinguished from the exemptions

specifically granted by the California Constitution and the Revenue and Taxation Code. All

federal property, unless the United States government has consented to its taxation, is immune

from property taxation by the states. This includes property owned by federal agencies or

instrumentalities, public lands, and personal property of the federal government. However,

possessory interests held by lessees or other users of federal property are generally taxable, with

the notable exception of possessory interests in property within a federal enclave. Federal

agencies frequently issue revocable permits or licenses to individuals or organizations,

Valuation issues pertaining to property that may include intangible assets and rights are discussed in Assessors'

Handbook Section 502, Advanced Appraisal.

See Assessors' Handbook Section 265, Cemetery Exemption; Assessors' Handbook Section 267, Welfare, Church,

and Religious Exemptions; and Assessors' Handbook Section 504, Assessment of Personal Property and Fixtures,

Chapter 6.

AH 501 January 2002 29

transferring to the permittee or licensee the right to use land for a specific purpose, such as

timber harvesting, livestock grazing, or water and power development. A taxable possessory

interest in the described land is generally created by the issuance of such a permit or license.

As a general rule, when property is owned by an organization that is under the control of the

federal government, the property is immune from property taxation for the duration of time it is

under the government's jurisdiction. A notable exception is property that has been transferred to

the Resolution Trust Corporation (RTC), an instrumentality of the United States General

Services Administration, as the result of bank foreclosures and loan defaults. Because of a

decision made by the federal government not to assert its immunity, property owned by the RTC

is subject to property taxes, if the taxes are based on the property's value only.

WHAT REAL PROPERTY RIGHTS AND OWNERSHIP INTERESTS ARE TO BE

APPRAISED?

People usually visualize property as a tangible or physical thing, such as a house, a parcel of land,

or an airplane. However, as discussed at the beginning of this chapter, property is also the set of

rights associated with something that can be owned. Ownership may take many forms, and may

be divided and shared under a number of possible arrangements. The rights constituting the full

bundle of rights can be split off and conveyed separately or in packages. When a property right is

separated from the complete bundle of rights and conveyed, a partial or fractional interest is

created. A property interest may be described in terms of the property right, legal (ownership)

interest, and form of property ownership involved, as discussed below.

SURFACE, ABOVE-SURFACE, AND SUB-SURFACE PROPERTY RIGHTS

Real estate, the physical property, includes three spatial levels: the surface area, the above-

surface space, and the sub-surface space. Property rights may exist in each of these levels. In

addition, land bordering waters may give rise to forms of water rights. Each of these property

rights may be owned or possessed separately.

The surface rights are the most obvious, consisting of rights to use the earth and everything

attached to it. Surface rights include rights in land, buildings and other improvements, and crops.

The above-surface space extends from the surface upward into space. Above-surface rights, also

known as air rights, may be acquired to build transportation improvements (e.g., roads and

railways) or to construct one building over another. Air rights may also include the right to

sunlight and natural ventilation. Tall structures, for example, may encroach on the air rights of

adjacent land.

The sub-surface space includes the area encompassed by lines drawn from the property's surface

boundaries to the center to the earth. Mineral and petroleum rights are perhaps the primary form

of subsurface rights.

AH 501 January 2002 30

Finally, water rights involve rights in land that borders waters (i.e., streams, rivers, lakes, or

oceans). The landowner's rights may or may not include the right to utilize the adjacent waters.

LEGAL (OWNERSHIP) INTERESTS

Ownership or beneficial interests in land are referred to as estates in land and are classified into

three major categories: freehold, or ownership, estates; possessory, or leasehold, estates; and non-

possessory estates. The estate is the totality of the ownership interest that a person has in a

property and represents the condition or circumstance of ownership in which the owner stands

with regard to his property. The grantor is the party who transfers the property interest or estate;

the grantee is the party who receives the interest.

Freehold Estates

A freehold estate is the highest order of all estates in that it represents a full and present

ownership interest in real property. Freehold estates must possess: (1) immobility, that is, the

property involved must be real property; and (2) indeterminate duration, that is, the ownership

must be for an indefinite period of time. Freehold interests are the equivalent of fee interests,

which constitute estates of inheritance. As such, they include the full present beneficial interests

and rights, such as the right to the income of the property. A future estate (estate in expectancy),

which includes reversionary and remainder interests, is an estate in which possession or the right

to profits is postponed to a later date. Thus, it does not confer a present beneficial interest in the

property, even though it may possess similar characteristics. Proper treatment of these ownership

interests for property tax purposes is set forth in change in ownership statutes and rules.

Estates in fee simple (defined in Civil Code section 762 and sometimes called "fee simple" or

"fee") and other freehold estates (defined in Civil Code section 765) are the most complete forms

of ownership allowed by law. Fee simple or freehold estates must: (1) possess absolute

ownership unencumbered by any other interest, (2) be subject to the limitations imposed by

government, and (3) be capable of inheritance.

Present estates include: (1) fee simple absolute estates; (2) qualified, or defeasible, fee simple

estates; and (3) life estates. The fee simple estate (sometimes called the "fee simple absolute," or

simply the "fee") is the most complete form of ownership allowed by law. Fee simple estates are

subject only to the powers of government: taxation, eminent domain, police power, and escheat.

They are subject only to limitations imposed by government: police power; right to taxation;

right to eminent domain; and right of escheat. These limitations are discussed below.

• Police power. The police power serves the interests of public health, safety, morals and/or

general public welfare in the development and utilization of real estate. Building codes,

zoning laws and regulations, property subdivision ordinances, and restrictions in coastline

development are examples of the police power.

Change in ownership is addressed in sections 60-69.5, and in rules 462.001-462.500.

AH 501 January 2002 31

• Taxation. The power or right to tax real property has been retained by the states and

delegated to various levels of local government. In the event of nonpayment of taxes, legal

remedies are available to government.

• Eminent domain. Many public entities may exercise the right of eminent domain, which is

the right to acquire private property for such public purposes as public buildings, parks,

streets, and other public uses. This right has been delegated to some private entities, such

as public utilities, for situations in which the services provided are of general public

benefit. The legal action to acquire property through eminent domain is known as

"condemnation," and the Constitution requires that just compensation be paid for

properties acquired through the condemnation process.

• Escheat. Escheat is seldom used. It applies only when property is unclaimed after a

reasonable period of time. The property then escheats, with title passing to the state.

A qualified, or defeasible, estate is less than fee simple in that the owner's interest can be

defeated in the future should a stated event or condition occur. It is a present interest dependent

for its continuation on the occurrence or nonoccurrence of some future event. If the condition or

event occurs, the present owner loses his or her interest in the property, and the fee interest

reverts to someone else. A determinable estate for life, as in the case of a widow who is granted

an estate as long as she remains unmarried, is an example. Whenever the contingency occurs

(i.e., when the widow marries), the estate is absolutely determined, and the property transfers to

the remainderperson.

The life estate is a relatively common freehold estate, with duration limited to the life of the

person holding it or some other person's life. A life estate also involves a future, or remainder,

interest for the grantor or some other person. Generally, the grantor conveys a qualified fee

simple interest to the grantee for the grantee's lifetime. When the grantee's life expires, the fee

simple interest passes to some other person, known as the remainderperson. For example, A may

grant a life estate to B, with C, the remainderperson, receiving the fee simple interest when B

dies. The holder of the life estate is obligated to maintain the property in a manner sufficient to

protect the interest of the remainderperson.

Possessory or Leasehold Estates

The holder of a possessory, or leasehold, estate has possession but not ownership of the entire fee

interest. The grantor of a leasehold estate is known as the lessor; the grantee as the lessee. If the

lessee subleases his or her interest to a sublessee, the interest created is known as the

subleasehold interest; the holder of this interest is the sublessee.

The creation of a leasehold interest separates the full bundle of property rights into: (1) the leased

fee interest, the interest retained by the lessor or landlord; and (2) the leasehold interest, the

interest held by the lessee or tenant. The lessee obtains the right to possession and use while the

lessor retains all other ownership rights, including the right to regain possession at the

termination of the lease.

AH 501 January 2002 32

Types of leasehold estate include an estate for years, an estate from period to period, an estate at

will, and an estate at sufferance. Types of leasehold estates are also referred to as tenancies. An

estate (or tenancy) for years is an interest for a specified period of time; examples are a one-year

lease of an apartment or a three-year lease of office space. An estate (or tenancy) from period to

period is created when the lessor and lessee agree to continue their relationship from year to year

or month to month, with the provision that the leasehold interest is to continue unless terminated

with proper notice by either party. An estate (or tenancy) at will is an interest of unstated

duration; it may be terminated at any time by either party to the lease. An estate (or tenancy) at

sufferance exists when a leasehold interest of any of the prior types expires and the tenant refuses

to relinquish possession.

Other Property Interests

Other property interests involve lesser interests than either freehold estates or possessory estates.

Other property interests include private and public restrictions on ownership such as security

interests, easements, licenses, profits, and restrictive covenants or deed restrictions.

Security Interests or Liens

A lien is the right held by a creditor to secure payment of a debt from the debtor's property. It is a

security interest in property that is enforced only if the debt it secures is not paid. Liens can be

voluntary or involuntary. A voluntary lien is placed on property by the owner; an involuntary lien

arises from the claim by an outside party.

The most commonly known form of voluntary lien held in real property is a mortgage. A

mortgage is the right conveyed by the mortgagor to the mortgagee to secure repayment of the

sum borrowed.

The real property, in effect, is legally pledged to satisfy the debt. Common

involuntary liens include mechanics' liens, judgment liens, and tax liens.

The existence, per se, of a mortgage or other lien interest in property does not affect an appraisal

for property tax purposes. For property tax purposes, a property is valued as if free and clear of

all debt. However, sales prices involving security interests that reflect non-market financing

terms may require adjustment to reflect the cash equivalence of existing financing.

Easements

An easement is a right of use over the real property of another. The two traditional easements are

an easement appurtenant and an easement in gross. Easements can be terminated by certain legal

procedures; however, they are generally permanent in nature and run with the land. Easements

may be created by express grant, by necessity, or by prescription.

An easement appurtenant exists when the easement is legally connected to adjoining property.

The parcel benefiting from the easement is known as the dominant estate and the parcel burdened

In California, a trust deed is used instead of a mortgage, but the principle is the same. Even in this state, a trust

deed is loosely referred to as a mortgage.

Cash equivalence is discussed in Chapter 6 under "Comparative Sales Approach."

AH 501 January 2002 33

is the servient estate. A common example of an appurtenant easement is a grant of a permanent,

irrevocable right of way allowing the owner of a land-locked parcel to cross a specific portion of

another owner's parcel to get to a public street. Another example is a parking lot easement that

allocates a specific number of parking spaces in a shopping center parking lot to a restaurant

parcel.

An easement in gross exists where there is no dominant estate, only a servient estate. For

example, a powerline right-of-way easement granted to a utility company is an easement in gross.

There is no adjoining parcel of land that is legally related to the easement.

While most easements do not constitute separate property interests, some types of appurtenant

easements may be components of the taxable appraisal unit that is recognized by the appraiser. In

order for the grant of an easement to qualify as a change in ownership and subject the property to

reappraisal, it must satisfy the three part definition in section 60.

Licenses

A license is the revocable right to use the land of another for a specific purpose. The essential

element of a license, whether it is verbal or written, is that it must be assented to by the property

owner, the licensor. The holder of the license, the licensee, may acquire such rights in the

property as are related to the licensee's permitted activities on the property. Because the benefit to

the licensee and the burden on the landowner are temporary, the license is automatically revoked

by any attempt to transfer it.

The right to park one's automobile or to attend a sporting event, as legally evidenced by the

possession of a permit or ticket, are examples of licenses that are nontaxable. However, if a

federal agency issues a license to an individual or legal entity to use, develop, or occupy

government land for a mountain cabin, a ski facility, or an electrical transmission project, the

right granted to the licensee is a taxable possessory interest in the property described under the

license.

Profits

A profit (or profit à prendre) is an interest in real property that permits the holder to remove

something from the land, such as soil, minerals, or oil and gas. A profit must be sufficiently

described in writing and must explain the removal rights. While an easement allows the use of

the lands of another, a profit allows the holder to remove something from the land of another.

Restrictive Covenants or Deed Restrictions

Restrictive conditions, covenants, and restrictions (CC&Rs) are contractual promises made by

property owners to restrict the use of property in some way. Typically, covenants are recited in

deeds (the legal instruments for conveying property) or in recorded subdivision maps or plats.

AH 501 January 2002 34

For example, CC&Rs may restrict the size, architectural style, and perhaps even the color scheme

of houses in a subdivision. Covenants cannot be unreasonable or unlawful.

IMPORTANCE OF THE FEE SIMPLE CONCEPT IN PROPERTY TAX APPRAISAL

All appraisers value a set of defined property rights. Examples of these rights, which were

described above, include the rights to sell, lease, encumber, gift, grant an easement, restrict

access to a property, etc. The property tax appraiser, with few exceptions, must estimate the fair

market value of the unrestricted fee simple estate, unencumbered by liens or leases, based on the

highest and best use of the property.

In the vast majority of assignments, the property tax

appraiser estimates the value of the full bundle of rights.

The appraisal of property subject to a lease represents the most common example of the fee

simple concept for property tax appraisal. If the contractual rights under a lease are less valuable

than the current fair market value of the rights of possession and use (i.e., the contract rent is less

than the current market rent), the market value of the leased fee interest is less than the market

value of the fee simple interest. Conversely, if the contract rent is greater than the current market

rent, the market value of the leased fee interest exceeds the market value of the fee simple

interest.

In the former case, the value of the leasehold interest is positive; in the later case, the

value of the leasehold interest is negative. In either case, the magnitude of the leasehold value

(the difference between the fee simple value and the leased fee value), positive or negative,

depends upon the difference between contract and market rent, and upon the length of the

remaining lease term.

If the contractual rights are less valuable than the current rights of possession and use (i.e., if the

actual rent is less than the current rental value of the property on the open market), the prudent

buyer will pay a price that is lower than the value of the unencumbered property rights because

the full property rights will not be acquired. The converse is true if the contractual rights are

more valuable than the current rights of possession and use. Since the law requires that an

appraisal for property assessment purposes be based on the value of the unencumbered fee simple

interest, an appraisal based on the sale price of the subject property or on the sales prices of

comparable properties—where contract rents differ from current market rents—must be adjusted

in order to reflect the market value of the fee simple interest. Sales used as indicators of market

value should be investigated to determine whether the rights conveyed were equivalent to the

rights that are to be assessed (i.e., the fee simple interest).

Generally, the value of the entire fee simple estate or interest in the subject property and

identified property rights is assessed to the owner of record. This practice is a great

CC&Rs are also discussed, in the context of highest and best use, in Chapter 4 under "Legally Permissible."

The concept of highest and best use is discussed in Chapter 4.

As discussed earlier, the leased fee interest includes the right to receive rents for the lease term and the right to

regain full possession and use of the property when the lease terminates. The leasehold interest includes the tenant's

rights of possession and use over the term of the lease.

See rule 4(b)(2).

AH 501 January 2002 35

administrative convenience and has the sanction of the courts.

While theoretical justification

exists for the position that only those rights actually held by the owner of record should be

assessed to him or her and that other partial interests should be assessed to their respective

owners, it is not generally feasible to differentiate all interests in a property for separate

assessment. In effect, property rights are appraised as a unit, and any division of tax

responsibility must be made among the owners of the various partial interests. In any event, the

sum of the assessments of the multiple interests in a property should not exceed the value of the

entire fee simple interest in the property.

FORMS OF OWNERSHIP

Single and Concurrent Ownership

Ownership in real estate can be held in four primary ways:

• Single Ownership

• Tenancy in Common

• Joint Tenancy

• Community Property

In single ownership ("ownership in severalty"), no division of the bundle of property rights is

involved. Property ownership is vested in a single person or in a single legal entity (corporation,

partnership, trust, etc.).

The three remaining forms of ownership listed above are forms of concurrent ownership, that is,

ownership vests in two or more persons. Multiple or concurrent owners are known as co-owners

or co-tenants.

Tenants in common hold separate, undivided (rather than specified) interests in the entire

property. Each co-owner may sell, pledge, or pass on to heirs his or her separate interest. There is

no right to survivorship as in joint tenancy.

In a joint tenancy, each tenant receives the same estate or interest and each is considered to own

the whole property subject to the interests of the other joint tenants. A significant feature of joint

tenancy is the right of survivorship. At the death of one of the joint tenants, the rights of the

deceased vest in the surviving joint tenants. Although a joint tenant cannot devise his interest by

will (because of the right of survivorship), the joint tenant can transfer his interest during his

lifetime, thus creating a tenancy in common.

Nine states, including California, recognize a form of ownership between husband and wife

known as community property. In these states, all property acquired during marriage is

considered property of the "marriage community." Under Family Code section 438, property

Three G Distillery Corp. v. Los Angeles County (1941) 46 Cal.App.2d 498; Graciosa Oil Co. v. Santa Barbara

County (1909) 155 Cal. 140. But the assessment to either the vendor or the vendee under a conditional sale contract

is not valid. Sherman v. Quinn (1948) 31 Cal.2d 661.

AH 501 January 2002 36

ownership is presumed to be owned in undivided interests between the husband and the wife, and

the consent of both spouses is generally required to transfer community property. "Community

property," is defined in Civil Code section 687, and Family Code section 760 presumes

beneficial ownership in both spouses regardless of legal title. Under Civil Code section 682.1, if

any transfer instrument created/recorded on or after July 1, 2001 expressly declares on its face

that when one spouse dies the property will pass to the survivor, then the property interest of the

deceased spouse will transfer to the surviving spouse without estate administration – subject to

the same procedures applicable to joint tenancy. Under certain conditions, one spouse may hold

property that is not subject to the interest of the other spouse; this is termed "separate property."

For example, property acquired before marriage or by gift or inheritance may be considered

separate rather than community property.

The concurrent interests of tenancy in common and joint tenancy are important to the property

tax appraiser because they form separate, taxable property interests. The creation or transfer of a

joint tenancy or tenancy in common may involve a change in ownership for property tax

purposes, requiring the reassessment of the fractional interest transferred. This creates a separate

base year value for each fractional interest. Thereafter, each interest must be tracked so that

future changes in ownership can be correctly processed. The base year value of the total property

interest, in effect, becomes a summation of the base year values of the separate, concurrent

interests.

Condominium, Cooperative, and Timeshare Ownership

Condominium, cooperative, and timeshare are three specialized forms of concurrent ownership.

In the condominium form of ownership, owners hold fee simple ownership in their individual

units and tenancy in common ownership in regard to the common areas of the project (e.g.,

sidewalks, greenbelts, swimming pools, and recreational areas) maintained by the condominium

owners' association. All states, including California, have statutes governing the formation and

operation of condominium projects. Statutes found in sections 66426 et seq. of the California

Government Code provide for condominium declaration, which describes the individual units

and common areas; the bylaws, which provide for how a condominium project will be governed;

and individual grant deeds used to convey title of each individual unit. Each unit is a separate

assessment parcel for property tax purposes.

In the cooperative form of ownership, which is relatively rare in California, a corporation holds

title to the project real estate, with shares in the corporation in turn owned by the project's

occupants. Ownership of shares provides the right to lease (a "proprietary" lease) and use one of

the project's dwelling units. The owners also hold leasehold interests in specific units combined

with proportional ownership of the shares in the cooperative housing corporation. The

owner/occupants, by virtue of their ownership interests in the corporation, run the cooperative

through a board of directors. Each dwelling unit may be a separate assessment parcel.

See Letter To Assessors No. 85/85.

AH 501 January 2002 37

Timeshare ownership is a form of concurrent ownership in which ownership is divided according

to specific time periods. Timeshare ownership is used primarily for resort properties. Timeshare

properties may be organized either as fee interest or right-to-use timeshares. In fee interest

timeshares, owners receive fee simple title to units for specific time periods (e.g., a specific week

of the year). In right-to-use timeshares, occupants acquire a leasehold interest rather than fee

simple ownership. This interest provides the holder with the right to use a unit for a specified

time period. In addition to the purchase of the timeshare interest itself, the holder of the interest

usually also pays annual fees for management and maintenance. For property tax purposes,

timeshare interests are separate taxable interests.

Legal Entity Ownership

As discussed above, real property interests can be held by one or two or more persons. In

addition, real property interests can be held by legal entities. Six types of legal entities commonly

used to hold title to real estate are:

• General partnership

• Limited partnership

• Corporation

• Limited liability company or limited liability partnership

• Land trust

• Real estate investment trust

Discussion of each of the above forms of legal entity ownership is beyond the scope of this

manual; however, it is important to note that different forms of legal entities are used as

ownership vehicles of real property for a variety of economic and legal reasons. Economic

reasons include the ability to pool capital, the availability of professional property development

and management services for individual investors, and income tax characteristics of each

ownership form, which can be used to maximize tax benefits for targeted investor groups. An

important, perhaps the primary, legal advantage is limited liability (except in the case of the

general partnership) for individual owners. A change in control under section 64(c) in which a

transferee acquires more than 50 percent of the interests in a legal entity, or a change in

ownership under section 64(d) in which the transferors who are "original co-owners"

cumulatively transfer more than 50 percent of the legal entity interests, requires reappraisal of the

real property owned by the entity, unless an exclusion applies.

Any of the approaches to value discussed in Chapter 6 can be used to value a real property timeshare interest.

However, the fair market value of the timeshare estate may not include the value of personal property or any non-real

property items, such as vacation exchange rights, vacation conveniences and services, and club memberships. Also

see section 998, rule 472, and Letters To Assessors 82/92 and 99/67.

Section 64.

AH 501 January 2002 38

CHAPTER 4: ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK FOR REAL PROPERTY

APPRAISAL

NATURE OF THE REAL ESTATE MARKET

One of the most important aspects of appraisal is understanding how the real estate market

evaluates the properties under appraisal. In order to analyze comparable sales and other market

data, the appraiser must have information about the market conditions that surrounded the

transaction. Additionally, since an appraisal is based on an estimate of a property's future

productivity or benefits, knowledge of the market forces that may affect the supply of and the

demand for property similar to the property being appraised is critical.

While the following discussion focuses on the real estate market, appraisers should understand

and recognize similar or analogous aspects in the personal property market.

DEFINITION AND FUNCTIONS OF A MARKET

A market can be defined as the organized action between buyers (demand) and sellers (supply)

that permits trade. In The Appraisal of Real Estate, the real estate market is defined as "the

interaction of individuals who exchange real property rights for other assets, such as money."

The study of a market should include all factors of supply and demand that affect the price and

quantity traded of the property type being appraised. Real estate markets may be classified in

several ways: (1) by geographic area; (2) by property type; or (3) by the scope of prospective

market participants.

Real estate markets are often defined by broad geographic boundaries, because the value of most

real estate, due to its immobility, is strongly influenced by local market forces. For example, one

might refer to the real estate market in San Diego or the market in the San Francisco Bay Area

Peninsula. A neighborhood is an example of a highly focused, geographically defined real estate

market in which all properties are subject to common value influences.

Real estate markets may also be defined by the property type traded. Real estate markets are often

broadly described in terms of commercial, industrial, agricultural, or residential market segments,

each representing a broad type of property. In turn, each of these broad property types may

comprise several subtypes. For example, the commercial category includes—but is not limited

to—office and retail properties, while the residential category includes single-family residences,

apartments, condominiums, and other subtypes.

Real estate markets may also be defined by the scope of their participants. While the buyers and

sellers of most houses reside in the community in which the property is located, the buyers and

sellers of some properties—such as large office buildings, industrial properties, or agricultural

tracts—may be individual investors or financial intermediaries from far outside the local area.

Some properties trade in markets that are regional, national, or even international in scope.

Appraisal Institute, The Appraisal of Real Estate, 19.

AH 501 January 2002 39

The basic function of any market is to effect exchange. In a barter economy, goods are exchanged

for other goods; in a money economy, goods are exchanged for money and money for other

goods. The result of exchange is the distribution and allocation of economic resources. Because

of the scarcity of resources, all people in a society cannot have everything they want at whatever

time they wish. Every economic system must make decisions about what to produce, how to

produce it, and how the produced goods and services will be allocated. In a free-enterprise

economy, these decisions are largely made in a competitive market through the voluntary

interactions between buyers and sellers using the price mechanism.

The real estate market performs functions similar to those performed in other competitive

markets. In particular, the real estate market: (1) establishes price; (2) distributes existing real

estate resources among potential users; (3) contracts or expands the supply of real estate in

response to changing market conditions; and (4) determines land use.

Price is established in a competitive market through market transactions. Price is established

through the interaction of demand and supply, and it responds to the forces affecting market

demand and supply. The appraiser should examine each transaction used in an appraisal to

determine whether the conditions of fair market value, discussed in Chapter 2, have been met.

Real estate resources are distributed, or allocated, among potential users through the price

mechanism. In a free, competitive market, real estate is allocated based on the ability to pay,

either in the form of rent or purchase price.

The supply of real estate resources is affected by the same market mechanism that influences the

supply of other goods. In the real estate market, producers (developers) respond to increased

demand—as signaled by higher purchase prices and/or rents—by increasing the supply of real

estate through either remodeling or new construction. With a decrease in demand, the opposite

occurs. The market mechanism also allows a change in the character of demand to bring about a

change in the character of supply. For example, if there is increased demand (as reflected in

higher prices) for homes with three bathrooms, developers will respond by constructing a greater

quantity of homes with three bathrooms. Supply thus reflects the wants and desires of consumers.

Finally, in a free market, competitive bidding among buyers and sellers determines the utilization

of each parcel of real estate. In general, the most productive use of a parcel of land, subject to

legal and physical constraints, will prevail over other competing uses. This use, which is

determined by market forces, is referred to as a property's highest and best use.

In the long run,

this process of land use determination at the parcel level also determines the patterns of land use

over much wider geopolitical areas.

Highest and best use is discussed in a later section of this chapter.

AH 501 January 200240

SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF REAL ESTATE

Real estate has special characteristics that distinguish it from other economic goods. These

characteristics are:

• Immobility

• Uniqueness

• Durability

• Large transaction size

• Long development or production period

Immobility

Since real estate is immobile (it cannot be separated from its location), its value is closely related

to the current and future economic prospects of the community or neighborhood in which it is

located. Simply put, real estate cannot be moved to a better market.

The immobility of real estate means that the value of a given parcel of land is strongly affected

by factors outside its boundaries. These factors include the uses that are made of neighboring

parcels; the availability and quality of off-site improvements or infrastructure (e.g., water, sewer,

utility, and transportation systems); and the quality of public services, including schools and

police and fire protection. All of these off-site factors exist outside of a particular parcel of real

estate.

Uniqueness

Each parcel of real property is unique, which often makes comparison with other parcels

difficult. For example, residential properties with desirable views or water frontage may sell for

much more than otherwise comparable properties that lack such attributes, even if the properties

are in close proximity. Similarly, a house on a busy street may sell for significantly less than the

same model on a quiet street. Since no two parcels are identical, the appraiser's task is to find

properties with characteristics as similar as possible to those of the property being appraised.

Durability

The durability of real property is apparent. New structures usually have a long life expectancy,

and land exists in perpetuity. Thus, real property yields benefits over a long period of time. Since

the value of real estate is based on the market's expectations of its future productivity, the

appraiser must estimate the benefits of a property over this future period.

Large Transaction Size

A characteristic of real estate related to its durability is its large average transaction size. For

most families, a home is their largest investment, and investment-type properties typically require

even larger outlays. The economic size of most real estate transactions creates, in most cases, a

large financing requirement. Therefore, the cost and availability of financing has a strong effect

on the real estate market.

AH 501 January 2002 41

Long Development or Production Period

From conception to completion, real estate projects often take years to complete. From a market

standpoint, this means that the supply of real estate is typically slow to adjust to an increase in

market demand. An increase in demand often results in rapid price increases in the short run.

Similarly, the supply of real estate is also slow to adjust to a decrease in market demand. A

significant decrease in demand leads to price decreases.

Thus, the real estate market departs significantly from the ideal of a purely competitive market,

largely due to the characteristics of real estate discussed above. Specifically, in the real estate

market:

1) The product is differentiated. Each real estate parcel has special physical characteristics

and a unique location. This makes comparable sales and other data difficult to obtain for

some types of properties.

2) Buyers and sellers often have unequal information. Some buyers may not be fully aware of

the forces and trends which affect value and of the full potential for a parcel. Complete

information about all transactions is hard to obtain, particularly for commercial and

industrial properties.

3) There is a long lead time for planning and building new property improvements. This

delays the supply response to an increase in demand. In a perfectly competitive market,

supply and demand are rarely far out of balance. The long life of most building

improvements also means that supply cannot be reduced with a decrease in demand.

4) The large financing requirement for most real estate means that both real estate demand

and supply are significantly affected by credit conditions. The level of interest rates affects

the demand for real estate and real estate value. Interest rates also affect the supply of real

estate through the impact on new construction.

FORCES AFFECTING THE VALUE OF REAL PROPERTY

Real estate markets at the neighborhood, community, regional, and national levels are subject to

broad forces that affect demand and supply. The dynamic interaction of these forces create trends

in the real estate market. Professional appraisers have classified these forces into four major

categories: (1) physical, (2) demographic, (3) economic, and (4) governmental.

Physical Forces

Physical (or environmental) forces are the most noticeable because they can be observed. On a

macro level, these forces have played a large part in the location of cities. On a micro level, their

influence is felt down to the individual parcel. Physical and environmental forces are either

natural or man-made. Important natural forces that affect real property value are topography; soil;

climate; natural resources (such as water); scenic beauty or view; and flood or earthquake fault

zones. Important physical forces are the size and shape of a parcel; infrastructure; and the

accessibility of the parcel to other desirable destinations (e.g., schools, commercial areas,

recreation areas, employment centers, etc.).

AH 501 January 2002 42

Demographic Forces

Demographic forces are exerted primarily through the characteristics and customs of people.

Examples of these forces are general population trends; attitudes toward household formation

(e.g., living alone or with others, having children, etc.); household characteristics (e.g., family

size and age groupings, etc.); changes in lifestyles and living standards; neighborhood

characteristics; and attitudes of people toward government, property development, ecological

issues, and education.

Economic Forces

A strong argument can be made that cities developed largely as a result of economic forces—

namely, the manufacture and exchange of goods. Because economic forces strongly affect city

growth or decline and property values, appraisers should study economic forces influencing

present and anticipated demand for and supply of property.

Examples of demand forces are trends in employment and income; the availability of financing;

the level of interest rates; and trends in a community's economic base (e.g., industrial expansion

or contraction). Examples of economic forces that affect supply are the availability of vacant and

improved properties; rental and price patterns of existing properties; construction planned or in

progress; and construction costs.

Governmental Forces

Governmental forces are broadly construed to include political decisions made by all levels of

government and by the courts. The demand for and supply of real estate, and hence its value, are

strongly influenced by governmental actions and controls. Governmental influences include

zoning and building codes; development regulations; environmental regulation; police, fire, and

health protection; the construction of physical infrastructure (e.g., utilities and transportation

networks); and public school systems. Specific legislation, such as rent control, may influence

real estate markets. Federal monetary policy and federal and state fiscal policies also influence

real estate markets.

DEMAND AND SUPPLY FACTORS IN REAL ESTATE MARKETS

The determinants of demand and supply are those variables or factors within a defined real estate

market or submarket that cause demand and supply to shift and lead to price changes. The

primary determinants of real estate demand are population, income, buyers' tastes and

preferences, price changes of other goods, the cost and availability of financing, and the

expectations of buyers and sellers about the future. Perhaps the three strongest determinants of

demand are population, income, and availability of financing.

Population is important not only in terms of its sheer size, but also in terms of its demographics

(e.g., age distribution, educational status, and size of household). Equally important is the fact

that population moves or migrates. Changes in population are most often tied to employment

opportunities, although other factors such as the general desirability of an area and its amenities

can be of primary concern to retirees and well-to-do individuals. Increases or decreases in

AH 501 January 2002 43

population strongly influence real estate values. A growing level of income increases the demand

for real estate, while a declining level of income decreases demand. Income growth creates

business expansion and increased demand for commercial real estate. An increase in household

income increases the demand for residential real estate. Finally, since most real estate

transactions require a significant level of financing, demand for real estate is strongly affected by

the cost and availability of financing. A significant increase in borrowing costs may impede

demand. Because real estate markets are largely local, changes in population and income are

often more influential at the local or regional level than at the national level. When income and

population are increasing in a community or region, the demand for real estate increases and

values also tend to increase.

The primary determinants of real estate supply are the costs of production inputs (including

financing), advances in technological know-how, and expectations regarding future demand.

Increases in the cost of production inputs reduce the quantity of real estate supplied at a given

price. Real estate production inputs include land, labor and materials, and the cost of financing. If

land is not available at a price that permits a profit, then development cannot occur. Moreover,

land is not useful for development unless a suitable infrastructure is in place. The cost and

availability of financing is a significant determinant of supply as well as of demand. Advances in

technological know-how also affect the cost of production. Advances which decrease costs tend

to increase the quantity supplied.

Perhaps the single most important determinant of supply is the expectation of developers

regarding future demand. If developers are optimistic about future demand, then the quantity

supplied tends to increase and vice versa. Developer expectations typically derive from forecasts

regarding national, regional, and local economic activity.

NATURE OF REAL ESTATE PRODUCTIVITY

The importance of utility as a prerequisite of value was previously discussed in Chapter 1. In the

context of real estate, "productivity" can be used as a synonym for utility. This section identifies

and describes the primary sources of real estate productivity and includes many examples of

intangible attributes of real property that are to be considered by appraisers under section 110(f).

Real estate is part of the productive process for most goods and services. Not only agricultural

products, but practically all commercial activities involve real estate. Residential real estate

provides a direct product—housing or shelter—for its occupants. Through the services it

provides, real estate is a productive asset. But what is the nature of this productivity?

AH 501 January 2002 44

Economist Richard Ratcliff answered the question in this way:

Space as such has no value; but space in the right location and combined with the

right input of man-made improvements has great utility. Basically space is

valuable in urban areas because it gives room for man's activities.

Real estate is productive and provides utility in two major ways: (1) in its physical capacity to

provide services appropriate for a particular use; and (2) in its convenience or location relative to

other parcels and interdependent uses. These two characteristics of real estate productivity are

discussed in greater detail below.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AFFECTING REAL ESTATE PRODUCTIVITY

The physical aspect of real estate productivity concerns: (1) the natural characteristics of the land

itself; and (2) the man-made improvements made to the land, including both on- and off-site

improvements.

Natural Characteristics

Natural characteristics can be roughly divided into surface and subsurface characteristics. Surface

characteristics include topography (including the susceptibility to flooding), size, shape, soil

fertility, vegetation, and exposure (in the sense of exposure to good or bad views, noises, etc.).

Subsurface characteristics include load-bearing capacity, drainage capacity, and the presence or

absence of extractable mineral deposits.

Natural features determine the suitability of the land for urban, agricultural, or extractive uses.

The load-bearing capacity of the land is important in the construction of all structures,

particularly high-rise structures. The general elevation of a parcel and whether or not it lies

within a floodplain significantly affect development potential and costs. Steep terrain or

topography is generally not suitable for commercial development due to high development costs,

but it may be suitable for residential development where favorable views can significantly

enhance value. Finally, soil fertility and drainage are of obvious importance for agricultural uses.

Man-made Characteristics

To a great extent, land is a manufactured product. When raw land is combined with the other

factors of production, "developed land," a product of greater utility and value than undeveloped

land, is created. Physical changes made to raw land can add great utility and value. Such changes

include streets, sewage systems, structures, and other types of improvements.

Man-made characteristics of real estate fall into two categories: off-site and on-site

improvements. Off-site improvements are located outside the subject property and are often

termed "infrastructure." They include such important works as transportation systems; sewage,

water, and drainage systems; and facilities for electric and gas power and telephonic

Richard U. Ratcliff, Real Estate Analysis, (New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc., 1961), 52.

Ratcliff, Real Estate Analysis, 54.

AH 501 January 2002 45

communication. Off-site improvements or infrastructure can be constructed privately or by

government, but in either case the costs must be paid by the property owner/buyer in some

manner, either in sales prices, bond obligations, property taxes, or some combination of these.

The productivity of property as a result of off-site improvements must be considered in light of

what the owner paid in standard fair market value appraisals. However, most off-site

improvements are not assessable new construction. See Chapter 6 of the Assessors' Handbook

Section 502, Advanced Appraisal.

On-site improvements include the primary structure and other improvements located on the

subject property. Other improvements include grading and drainage work done on the site;

landscaping; retaining walls, walkways, driveways and other paved areas; and utility connections.

There may also be auxiliary structures and recreational improvements such as tennis courts and

swimming pools. Some on-site changes, such as contamination, may result in negative physical

effects and can impair a property's utility and value.

The primary structure is usually the most important on-site improvement. For most urban uses of

real estate, shelter from the elements is the primary concern. Ratcliff groups the value-generating

characteristics of a building into three categories: (1) functional efficiency; (2) durability; and (3)

attractiveness or aesthetics.

Functional Efficiency. Functional efficiency (or utility) refers to the degree to which a building

is suited for its intended use. Although the relationship of a structure to its site is a factor in

functional utility (residences require outdoor areas, and retail stores often require on-site

parking), the internal layout of the building is often the primary factor in functional utility.

Attributes such as the sizes and shapes of rooms, ceiling height, circulation patterns, number of

stories, privacy, and storage capacity are primary in determining a property's functional

efficiency. Since functional utility is analyzed in relation to intended use, each use will have its

own set of functional criteria.

The dynamic aspect of functional efficiency should be emphasized. With social, economic, and

technological changes, functional requirements for a given use are also subject to change. For

example, changes in the tastes and preferences of consumers may have a major effect on the

functional criteria for residential real estate, and a change in manufacturing technology may have

a significant effect on the functional criteria for industrial real estate.

As noted in an earlier section, real estate is designed to provide services over a long period of

time. The ability to anticipate potential changes in the functional requirements of a building

under evaluation, and knowledge of the degree to which a building can be economically modified

to meet functional requirements or be adapted to another use, are important appraisal skills.

Durability. For purposes of analyzing the value-generating characteristics of a building,

durability refers to the capacity of a structure to remain productive exclusive of functional

considerations. In this context, durability refers to construction quality. A high quality structure

will resist deterioration, have lower maintenance costs, and, assuming it remains functional, have

AH 501 January 2002 46

a longer economic life. The quality and condition of a building's structural components and

subsidiary systems are the primary determinants of construction quality.

Attractiveness or Aesthetics. Although attractiveness is a somewhat subjective characteristic,

the aesthetics of a property definitely affect its value. Extreme designs not in keeping with the

surrounding area (in either a residential neighborhood or a commercial district) generally have a

shorter period of market acceptance. What is considered attractive is also subject to the changing

tastes and preferences of market participants.

LOCATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS AFFECTING REAL ESTATE PRODUCTIVITY

The locational aspect of real estate productivity concerns the relative convenience of transferring

people, goods, and services from one site to desired activities at other sites. Fundamentally,

locational characteristics are concerned with spatial relationships among parcels of real estate. As

Ratcliff explains:

The essence of location derives from one of the elemental physical facts of life,

the reality of space. We cannot conceive of existence without space; if there were

no such thing, all objects and all life would have to be at one spot. If this

happened to be the case real estate would have no such quality as location; all real

estate would be at the same place, equally convenient to every other piece of real

estate and to every human activity and establishment.

The cost of moving people, goods, and services from one location to another is measured by such

factors as travel time required, transportation costs incurred (including parking requirements),

and perhaps the personal aggravation involved (e.g., waiting in traffic). These factors, which

economists refer to as "costs of friction" or "transfer costs," greatly influence the land use of any

given parcel.

Recurring interactions between different land uses at different geographic points are referred to

as "linkages." For example, a supermarket has linkages with the customers in its trading area and

with its suppliers. A household has linkages with schools, employment centers, shopping

districts, etc. A manufacturer has linkages with its sources of raw materials, its labor force, and

the buyers of its product. Each land use has its own linkage requirements.

The use to which a given parcel of real estate is put largely determines its total transfer cost. An

assumption about use must be made in order to estimate total transfer cost and to compare total

transfer costs among competing sites. Total transfer cost is a function of the number of linkages

involved and their frequencies. An expensive linkage may be relatively insignificant in terms of

total transfer cost because it is infrequent. For example, in the case of a supermarket, the

relatively expensive transfer cost associated with the periodic delivery of goods is less important

than minimizing the transfer costs of customers within its trade area. It is more important to this

business to be close to its customers. Within legal and physical constraints, each land use seeks a

location that will minimize its total transfer cost. In a competitive or nearly competitive real

Ratcliff, Real Estate Analysis, 62.

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estate market, various land uses bid against each other for available sites. The "winning use" for a

given location is able to outbid other uses because of greater savings in total transfer cost. Thus,

the value of a given parcel of real estate is in significant measure determined by its transfer or

locational characteristics.

In a competitive market, different uses bid for sites based on their physical and locational

characteristics (i.e., their productivity). The land use that can make the most economic use of a

site (as determined by the suitability of its physical characteristics and the relative saving in total

transfer cost) outbids other uses and gains control of the site. In this manner, physical and

locational characteristics directly affect a property's value.

HIGHEST AND BEST USE

VALUE AS A FUNCTION OF USE

Obviously, land is capable of alternative uses. A site may be used for an apartment building, a

service station, a single-family residence, an orchard, a retail store, or a variety of other uses.

Structures, to the extent they can be remodeled or adapted, are also capable of alternative uses.

The productivity or benefits derived from real property depend upon its use. Since value is a

function of the present worth of the anticipated future benefits, value also depends upon use.

Accordingly, real property must be appraised on the basis of its use or uses. The United States

Supreme Court expressed this principle as follows :

[T]he value of property results from the use to which it is put and varies with the

profitableness of that use, present and prospective, actual and anticipated. There is

no pecuniary value outside of that which results from such use. The amount and

profitable character of such use determine the value and if property is taxed at its

actual cash value it is taxed upon something which is created by the uses to which

it is put.

It is possible for lands that are contiguous to have substantially different uses and consequently

different values. In Wild Goose Country Club v. County of Butte (1922) 60 Cal.App. 339, the

court stated:

Proof that one taxpayer's lands are assessed at a higher value than those of his

neighbors does not justify the inference that there is any inequality in the

assessments, in the absence of proof of the relative market values of the lands

compared.

The court also stated:

There is no doubt as to the correctness of appellant's contention that lands of the

same quality and similarly situated should be assessed at the same value. The

Cleveland, C.C. and St. L. Ry. Co. v. Backus (1894) 154 U.S.445

AH 501 January 200248

quality and situation of the property, however, must be understood to include all

the elements which combine to establish its market value. Plaintiff's lands are not

of the same quality as the surrounding lands.

HIGHEST AND BEST USE DEFINED

Highest and best use is perhaps the most fundamental concept in real estate appraisal. All of the

fundamental principles of real estate market analysis come together in this concept. Highest and

best use is that use, among the possible alternative uses, that is physically practical, legally

permissible, market supportable, and most economically feasible. In The Appraisal of Real

Estate, highest and best use is defined as follows:

[T]he reasonably probable and legal use of vacant land or an improved property,

which is physically possible, appropriately supported, financially feasible, and that

results in the highest value.

An appraisal of fair market value for property tax purposes is based on a property's highest and

best use. The appraiser must make a determination of highest and best use as part of the appraisal

process.

Since buyers and owners generally attempt to maximize value and develop property to its highest

and best use, the existing use is likely to be the highest and best use. But this is not always the

case. Properties are typically devoted to particular uses for long periods of time and economic

change may render certain uses in specific locations either less profitable or totally obsolete. The

highest and best use of a parcel is subject to change over time.

CRITERIA FOR HIGHEST AND BEST USE

In order to qualify as a property's highest and best use, the use must meet four criteria. The use

must be: (1) legally permissible; (2) physically possible; (3) financially feasible or probable; and

(4) most productive. These criteria apply to both the highest and best use of the land as though

vacant and the highest and best use of property as improved. The following discussion generally

refers to the analysis of highest and best use of land as though vacant.

The highest and best use must be a legal use. Government significantly limits land use. The

highest and best use must be a use that is—or will be—allowed by government. A property

should not be appraised on the basis of a use that is illegal.

Legally Permissible

Enforceable Governmental Restrictions

The property tax appraiser must consider the effect that any enforceable governmental

restrictions may have on the value of a property. Property subject to an enforceable governmental

Appraisal Institute, Appraisal of Real Estate, 297.

However, statutory exceptions to the highest and best use assumption in property tax appraisal were discussed in

Chapter 2.

AH 501 January 2002 49

restriction must be valued based on its restricted use. However, property may be appraised on the

basis of a use other than that permitted under enforceable governmental restrictions if there is

reason to believe that the restrictions will be terminated. In this event, the property should be

appraised at the highest and best use that the probable change would allow, taking into account

the expenditures required to make the change and the time period required to accomplish it.

Section 402.1 states, in part:

(b) There is a rebuttable presumption that restrictions (which include zoning) will

not be removed or substantially modified in the predictable future and that they

will substantially equate the value of the land to the value attributable to the

legally permissible use or uses.

limited to, the past history of like use restrictions in the jurisdiction in question

and the similarity of sales prices for restricted and unrestricted land….

(g)… [T]he further purpose and intent of the Legislature in enacting this section

and Section 1630 is to avoid an assessment policy which, in the absence of special

circumstances, considers uses for land that legally are not available to the owner

and not contemplated by government….

Further, section 1630 states:

(a) Any real property owner the use of whose land is subject to an enforceable

restriction placed upon it by a local agency may apply to the governing body of

the local agency for a written statement declaring the present intention of the

governing body to refrain from removing or modifying any such restriction in the

predictable future.

(b) The written statement of intention may be granted or denied by the governing

body at its discretion. A reasonable fee not to exceed ten dollars ($10) may be

charged for each such statement.

evidence that a restriction on the use of the taxpayer's land exists and that such

restriction should be considered in assessing the value of the land.

(d) The written statement shall constitute a rebuttable presumption that the

governing body does not intend to remove or modify the restriction in the

predictable future.

Section 401.4 places an additional restriction on the valuation of certain single-family residential

properties as discussed in Chapter 2.

AH 501 January 2002 50

Enforceable Contractual Land Use Restrictions

Deed restrictions that restrict the uses of a property are not the same thing as governmentally-

imposed restrictions discussed above. Deed restriction are rights reserved by private persons as

opposed to limitations imposed by government. In most cases, the property tax appraiser should

not recognize deed restrictions when analyzing highest and best use. The rights to be assessed are

the fee simple rights without encumbrances, subject only to the limitations imposed by

government. A division of the fee simple rights would require a separate assessment on each

portion, and the assessment of only one portion of the rights would result in the illegal exemption

of the balance.

In general, private parties cannot reduce the taxable value of their property by imposing their own

restrictions upon it. Exceptions to this general rule are discussed below.

Section 402.1(a)(8) requires that the assessor consider the effect upon value of "a recorded

conservation, trail, or scenic easement, as described in section 815.1 of the Civil Code, that is

granted in favor of a public agency or in favor of a nonprofit corporation organized pursuant to

Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code that has as its primary purpose the preservation,

protection, or enhancement of land in its natural, scenic, historical, agricultural, forested, or

open-space condition or use." As applied to a property encumbered by a conservation easement

under this statute, the rights to be appraised are the rights of the owner subject to either the

limitations imposed by government or to the grant of the easement in favor of the non-profit

corporation.

When a deed, final subdivision map, or other instrument irrevocably dedicates a public road or

right of way to a governmental entity and the government entity officially accepts such right of

way (by resolution or ordinance of the governing body), Government Code sections 27280 and

27281 provide that the right of way, improvements, or area of land described becomes exempt

from taxation when official acceptance occurs. The value of the land and/or improvements

allocated to the dedicated strip of land should be deducted from the area of the parcel through

which it passes.

There are no change in ownership statutes or rules dealing specifically with the private grant of

an easement or right of way from one landowner to another. Although an easement or right of

way generally does not constitute "a transfer of value substantially equivalent to the fee" to the

benefited person, as discussed in Chapter 3, courts have determined that a recorded permanent

transfer of a present beneficial property right from one parcel to another can be a reassessable

event. (Mitsui Fudosan, Inc. v. Los Angeles County, 219 Cal.App.3d 525.). Where the agreement

between the property owners documents a recorded permanent grant of an appurtenant easement

that includes present beneficial interests in that property described that are in fact substantially

equivalent to the value of the fee, it qualifies as a change in ownership of the easement

transferred, per section 60. Most easements do not meet the change in ownership test in section

See Letter to Assessors 85/111 and Alfred E. Carlson v. Assessment Appeals Board I for the County of Santa

Clara (1985) 167 Cal.App. 3d 1004.

AH 501 January 2002 51

60 and therefore remain taxable to the property owner; however, they may need to be considered

when determining the legally permissible highest and best use for appraisal purposes.

When a lease between two or more private parties restricts the use of a property, the property is

nevertheless appraised on the basis of its highest and best use, with the restricted use considered

as one of the possible uses. An exception to this occurs in the case of a taxable possessory

interest, where the restriction on use constitutes a property right retained by a public entity.

Finally, the appraiser should be aware of conditions, covenants, and restrictions (CC&Rs) often

found in subdivisions. They are typically administered and enforced by an association of the

property owners. CC&Rs are similar to zoning in that restrictions are imposed on the use of

properties within the subdivision. In most cases, CC&Rs are more restrictive than zoning. Since

CC&Rs are private deed restrictions rather than governmentally-imposed zoning, they are not

enforceable restrictions pursuant to section 402.1. However, if the CC&Rs are actually enforced,

the market will value the properties in a manner that reflects both the existence of these

restrictions and the maintenance of effective land use planning, similar to that described in

section 402.1(g).

Physically Possible

The highest and best use must be physically possible. Pertinent physical factors regarding a

property include its size and shape, topography, load-bearing capacity, and availability of

utilities. For example, uses that require a larger site than the subject property or utilities that are

not available to the subject property should be eliminated from consideration. The highest and

best use of a property as improved also depends on physical factors, since the costs of any

modifications to the improvement depends on the existing property's characteristics and

condition.

In addition, highest and best use should be based either on existing land ownership or on an

existing use that combines parcels under separate ownership. If parcels are separately owned and

separately used, they should not be combined for appraisal purposes (or for the purpose of

highest and best use analysis). For example, the appraiser should not consider plottage value,

which arises from the combination of two contiguous parcels held in different ownership.

However, for example, in the case of a shopping center comprising several parcels under

different ownerships, the parcels interact to create value as reflected by the rent levels and trade

volume of the entire center. Thus, the value of an individual parcel in the center (and its highest

and best use) arises from the parcel's function as part of the economic unit, which is the entire

shopping center.

Plottage is the process of combining two or more sites under a single ownership in order to develop one site that

has greater utility and value than the two parcels considered as separate entities. The incremental addition to value is

known as plottage value.

AH 501 January 2002 52

Financially Feasible or Probable

The highest and best use must be probable, not speculative or conjectural. There must be a

demand for the use in the market; the use must be financially feasible given market conditions of

supply and demand. All uses that produce a positive return (i.e., a gross income greater than the

amount needed to satisfy operating expenses, debt service, and investment recapture or

amortization) are regarded as financially feasible.

Most Productive Use

The highest and best use must be the most productive use. Of all the financially feasible uses, the

one that produces the highest land value (again, on a risk adjusted basis) is the highest and best

use of the land as though vacant. It is the most productive use among the financially feasible

uses. Generally, it is a use that is most profitable over a reasonable period of time. For example, a

use that yields a very high current income, but quickly depletes the productivity of the property,

may not be the highest and best use. The highest and best use analysis should determine whether

a non-depleting use that yields a lower but more sustained income will in fact produce a higher

land value. The land value resulting from a given use can be estimated using two techniques: (1)

by estimating the total property value (land and improvements) of the proposed use and

subtracting the full cost of producing the improvements for that use; or (2) by capitalizing the

residual income to the land (i.e., the income that remains after income attributable to the

improvements has been subtracted).

HIGHEST AND BEST USE AS THOUGH VACANT AND AS IMPROVED

There are two distinct concepts in highest and best use analysis: (1) the highest and best use of

the land as though vacant; and (2) the highest and best use of the property as improved. These

concepts are discussed below.

Highest and Best Use of Land as Though Vacant

The concept of highest and best use of the land as though vacant derives from land residual

analysis used in classical economics. From this perspective, land value is based on the income

that remains after returns to the other factors of production have been subtracted. The land

residual method is discussed in Chapter 6 under the income approach to value.

Land should be valued based on its most profitable potential use, subject to certain criteria that

are discussed below. Any existing improvements can be torn down. In fact, in the case of an

improved property, demolition is economically appropriate when the market value of the land as

if vacant exceeds the current market value of the improved property. At this point, the existing

In Mola Development Corporation v. Orange County Assessment Appeals Board No.2 (2000) 80 Cal.App. 4

309, the condition of a contaminated property and the price it would bring in that condition must be considered in

determining its resultant value.

AH 501 January 2002 53

improvements no longer add value to the land, and the utilization of the site should succeed to a

higher use.

Economists refer to this as the process of land use succession.

The analysis of highest and best use as though vacant attempts to answer these questions: On a

risk-adjusted basis (i.e., after adjusting for the varying risks of potential uses), what is the most

productive use of the subject parcel as vacant? What type of building or other improvement

should be constructed on it? When should it be constructed? What type of development will

produce the highest residual income to the land, and hence the highest land value?

In addition, the analysis of highest and best use as though vacant is necessary in order to select

comparable properties used in the appraisal approaches to value. Comparable properties should

have the same highest and best use of the land as though vacant as the subject property.

Highest and Best Use of Property as Improved

Although the appraiser is generally concerned with the concept of highest and best use of land as

though vacant, the analysis of highest and best use of property as improved is also important.

This analysis addresses how an already improved property should be utilized. The analysis of

highest and best use as improved attempts to answer the following questions: Should the existing

use be intensified (e.g., by expansion or renovation of the existing improvements)? Should the

existing use be changed (e.g., by converting a residential use to a commercial use)? If the existing

use is changed, should the existing improvements be demolished or significantly modified?

The course of action that produces the highest rate of return on a risk-adjusted basis (again,

taking into account the varying risks of alternative uses) is the highest and best use of the

property as improved. This action will also produce the greatest increase in the owner's wealth.

Changes in the current utilization of an improved property may or may not require additional

investment. No investment may be required if the property is simply converted to another use;

additional investment is required when the existing use is expanded or converted to another use

requiring physical changes in the improvements. Obviously, additional investment is also

required if the existing improvement is demolished and replaced with an alternative

improvement.

In addition to solving the problem of property utilization, the analysis of a property's highest and

best use as improved is used to select comparable properties. Improved comparable properties

should have the same highest and best use as improved as the property being appraised.

SPECIAL SITUATIONS IN HIGHEST AND BEST USE ANALYSIS

The following sections describe several special situations associated with highest and best use

analysis.

This is somewhat simplified because the cost of demolishing existing improvements should also be considered in

the analysis.

AH 501 January 2002 54

More Than One Highest and Best Use

Highest and best use is not necessarily just one specific use. It is possible that several uses will

prove equally profitable. For example, two different uses may return the same net income to a

property.

Interim or Transitional Uses

A property's highest and best use may be prepared to change in the foreseeable future. The use to

which a parcel is put before its transition to a future highest and best use is known as an interim

or transitional use. An interim use typically continues for a relatively short period of time before

converting to a succeeding use. Interim uses appear in transitional areas where older uses are

yielding to new ones. For example, given appropriate zoning and growth trends, an agricultural

area on the outskirts of a city may be in transition to residential use. The current agricultural use

is an interim use. Or, an older residential district in a city may be in transition to commercial use.

The current residential use is an interim use. As a final example, in downtown areas, vacant lots

are often used for parking; however, as market conditions warrant, the lots will be developed and

utilized much more intensely. In such cases, the parking lot use is an interim use.

The total market value of a property in transition is based on both its interim and succeeding use.

The total value of transitional property is the sum of: (1) the present worth of the net real

property benefits from the interim use over the period of interim use; (2) the present worth of the

salvage value of the interim improvements, if any, at the termination of the interim use (or the

negative present worth of the cost of removing the improvements, if this exceeds the salvage

value); and (3) the present worth of the net future real property benefits from the succeeding

highest and best use.

However, an interim use may or may not contribute to current property value. An interim use

contributes to current property value if the gross income derived from the use exceeds operating

expenses related to the use. For example, an interim agricultural use of land often produces a net

return above that of unused vacant land, thereby contributing to the total market value of the

transitional property.

Consistent Use

For some improved properties, the highest and best use of the land as though vacant may have

changed from one use to another. For example, for a given improved property the highest and

best use of the land as though vacant may have changed from residential to commercial use. In

such cases, the improvements under the lower intensity use will be worth less than if situated on

a site appropriately zoned for them.

For example, consider a residence with a total property value (i.e., land and improvement) of

$250,000. If the lot as though vacant, based on a determination of its highest and best use as

commercial, has a market value of $200,000, the contributory improvement value is $50,000

($250,000 - $200,000). However (assuming total property value is still $250,000), if the

AH 501 January 2002 55

residential improvement were located on a $50,000 residential lot, its contributory value would

be $200,000 ($250,000 - $50,000).

It would be incorrect to value the residential improvement on the commercial lot at $200,000.

Under the principle of consistent use, the improvement should be valued on a basis consistent

with the site's highest and best use as though vacant. Thus, the improvement should be valued at

$50,000.

Excess and Surplus Land

A parcel may have more land than is economically needed to support its existing improvement

(in the case of an improved property) or its highest and best use (in the case of a vacant parcel or

a parcel analyzed as though vacant). Such land is beyond that required by normal market

standards, and may be defined as either excess land or surplus land.

Excess land either allows for the expansion of the existing use or is separately marketable and

hence possesses significant utility and value. Although it is still part of the same assessment unit,

excess land should be clearly identified and appraised separately. In contrast, additional land that

does not economically support the existing improvement but cannot be utilized to expand the

current use or be sold separately is defined as surplus land. Surplus land cannot be separated

from the appraisal unit. Surplus land should also be identified by the appraiser and assigned an

independent value considering its limited utility. The utility of the surplus land may be so

severely limited that little or no value is added to the appraisal unit.

FUNDAMENTAL APPRAISAL PRINCIPLES

Based on observation and analysis of real property markets, appraisers have developed principles

that attempt to describe how real estate markets operate. These fundamental principles work in

combination; seldom does only one principle apply to an appraisal problem. The following

discussion divides the fundamental appraisal principles into two general categories: principles of

real estate productivity and principles of real estate marketability. Several of the principles also

apply in some degree to personal property markets.

PRINCIPLES OF REAL ESTATE PRODUCTIVITY

Anticipation

The principle of anticipation holds that an estimate of value should always be based primarily on

future expectations rather than historical performance. Property is valuable because of the future

benefits it is expected to provide. A person invests in property, real or personal, in anticipation of

future benefits. This principle is particularly relevant to real property because of the anticipated

long life of most improvements. Future benefits can take the form of amenities, income, profits

on resale, or a combination of these. Historical information should not be ignored, but is useful

only to the extent that it sheds light on expectations about the future.

AH 501 January 2002 56

Surplus Productivity, Balance, and Contribution

The net income that remains after costs of the other factors of production (labor,

entrepreneurship, and capital) have been satisfied is sometimes called the "residual" return to

land, or the surplus productivity of land. The amount of this residual or surplus return is the basis

for land value.

Related to surplus productivity is the principle of balance, which states that the overall return

(and the return to land) will be highest when the optimum balance is struck among the factors of

production. The Appraisal of Real Estate states: "The principle of balance holds that real

property value is created and sustained when contrasting, opposing, or interacting elements are in

a state of equilibrium."

Elements both internal and external to a property must be in balance for maximum value to be

attained. Internally, the proper combination of land and building is critical to economic balance.

Externally, a property should be in balance with surrounding properties. For example, an

expensive home built on a low-value lot in a modest neighborhood may not sell for its full cost of

production.

The principle of contribution applies the principle of balance to property components. This

principle states that the value of a property component is measured in terms of its contribution to

the value of the entire property, that is, how much it contributes to the total value by its presence

or detracts by its absence. It is an application of the economic concept of marginal analysis. For

example, if a swimming pool, based on an analysis of market data, contributes an added value of

$10,000 to a residential property, it has a value of $10,000 even if its cost of construction was

$25,000.

Factors or Agents of Production

The production of real estate requires the inputs of the four factors or agents of production: land,

labor, capital, and entrepreneurship. The balance of these factors affects the productivity of the

real estate asset.

Land includes the ground, the airspace, and the natural resources found on the surface or in the

sub-surface of the earth. Labor includes human work directed toward production—that is, all

wages and other operating expenses involving human work. Capital is composed of goods (e.g.,

equipment and buildings) and intangible assets and rights (e.g., working capital and franchises)

used in the production process. Unlike other factors of production, capital must be produced

before it can be utilized in the production process. Human capital is the productive power of

individuals developed through education and training. Entrepreneurship is the act of visualizing

needs and taking the necessary action and risk to produce products that fulfill such needs. In real

estate development, entrepreneurship is synonymous with the development function.

Appraisal Institute, The Appraisal of Real Estate, 44.

AH 501 January 2002 57

When real property is utilized with labor and other agents of production in a business to produce

goods and services, the real property itself becomes a factor of production with property rent as

its income or return.

Increasing and Decreasing Returns

The principle of increasing and decreasing returns is closely related to the principles of balance

and contribution. When the four agents of production—land, labor, capital, and

entrepreneurship—are in economic balance, maximum value is attained.

There is a theoretical point of balance in each property where the agents of production will

produce the greatest net return. As the agents of production are increased, the result is a greater

net income up to a certain point (producing profit maximization).

In the terminology of economics, additional investment (of the agents of production) is

economically justified as long as marginal benefits equal or exceed marginal costs. This principle

has a practical application to decisions regarding property additions or remodeling. For example,

a property owner may consider installing an elevator in a two- or three-story rental building. The

decision should depend on the additional net rental income to be generated in relation to the

additional cost of the elevator. If the elevator will add value (as measured by an increase in net

rental income) at least equal to its cost, it is economically justified.

Consistent Use

The principle of consistent use states that a property should be valued on the basis of a single use

for the entire property. It is incorrect to value a property based on one use for the land and

another use for the improvements. This principle is especially applicable to property in transition

from one use to another, which was discussed earlier in conjunction with highest and best use.

PRINCIPLES OF REAL ESTATE MARKETABILITY

Substitution

The principle of substitution states that the upper limit of value tends to be set by the cost of

acquiring an equally desirable substitute (either by purchase or construction). When there is a

significant delay in acquiring the substitute, the cost of the delay must be taken into

consideration; a significant delay, in effect, raises the cost. The principle of substitution is closely

related to the economic concept of opportunity cost, which holds that the true cost of an

economic choice is measured by the opportunity foregone as a result of the choice.

The principle of substitution is fundamental to the cost, comparative sales, and income

approaches to value. Regarding the cost approach, the principle of substitution provides that

value can be estimated by the cost of constructing, without undue delay, a property of equal

utility. Regarding the comparative sales approach, the principle provides that value can be

estimated using the sales prices of properties with equal utility (i.e., comparable properties) as

value indicators. Finally, regarding the income approach, the principle states that value can be

AH 501 January 2002 58

estimated by the investment necessary to acquire, without undue delay, a substitute property

offering a comparable income stream.

Conformity

Regression and Progression

Change

Supply and Demand and Competition

Externalities

The fact that real estate is immobile causes its value to be influenced to a great degree by the

surrounding area. The principle of conformity holds that maximum value accrues to a property

when a reasonable degree of homogeneity is present in the neighborhood or surrounding land

uses. This principle implies reasonable similarity, not monotonous uniformity, and recognizes

that economic and/or psychological benefits may arise from grouping similar land uses.

Closely related to the principle of conformity, the principle of regression maintains that between

dissimilar properties, the value of the superior property is adversely affected by the presence of

the inferior. For example, higher-value homes tend to suffer or decrease in value if in proximity

to lower-value homes. The principle of progression is opposite the principle of regression: lower-

value homes tend to benefit or increase in value when in proximity to higher-value homes.

The principle of change recognizes the dynamic nature of real estate markets. Local, regional,

national, and even international trends have strong effects on property values. The principle of

change is closely related to the principle of anticipation. Change affects not only individual

parcels, but also entire neighborhoods, communities, and regions. All property is in a state of

transition, with the difference among properties being only the rate of change.

In a free-market economy, price is determined by the competitive interaction between market

demand and supply. Market demand and supply are derived by totaling, at each possible price,

the individual demands of buyers and individual supplies of sellers. When market supply is

greater than market demand there is excess supply, causing price to decrease. When market

demand is greater than market supply there is excess demand, causing price to increase.

The principle of externalities states that activities or land uses external to a given property, and

over which its ownership has very limited or no control or responsibility, can have negative or

positive effects on the property's value. Negative effects are known as negative externalities;

positive effects are known as positive externalities. For example, a sewage treatment plant may

produce negative externalities for downwind parcels in a residential subdivision. A new

community park may produce positive externalities for residential parcels located a few blocks

from it. The concept of external obsolescence, important in the cost approach to value, is closely

related to the principle of externalities.

AH 501 January 2002 59

CHAPTER 5: MEASUREMENT OF VALUE

STEPS IN THE APPRAISAL PROCESS

The appraisal process is a systematic method for arriving at an estimate of value. It is a

standardized procedure developed by professional appraisers for applying the fundamental

principles of valuation to a given property.

There are seven steps in the appraisal process:

1. Definition of the appraisal problem

2. Preliminary analysis and data collection

3. Highest and best use analysis

4. Land value estimate

5. Application of the approaches to value

6. Reconciliation of value indicators and the final value estimate

7. Reporting the final value estimate

DEFINITION OF THE APPRAISAL PROBLEM

The definition of the appraisal problem is the first step in the valuation process. This step should

eliminate any ambiguity regarding the nature of the appraisal. The definition of the appraisal

problem contains five substeps: (1) identification of the property being appraised; (2)

identification of the property rights involved in the appraisal; (3) determination of the purpose of

the appraisal; (4) establishing the effective date of the appraisal; and (5) obtaining the definition

of value for the appraisal.

Property Identification

A property can be physically identified in several ways: street address, legal description, or

assessor's parcel number. In property tax appraisal, the primary means of property identification

is the assessor's parcel number (APN). The street address and legal description are secondary

means of identification.

For personal property appraisals, account numbers may be used as the

identification where the property cannot be tied to a specific location, as is often the case with

making a single assessment where the taxpayer has equipment at more than one location.

Property Rights and Interests Involved

The appraiser must obtain a precise definition of the property rights to be valued. In most cases,

an appraisal for property tax purposes reflects the value of full fee simple unencumbered interest

of the property premised on the property's highest and best use.

Assessor's maps as a means of property identification are discussed below under "Land Valuation."

AH 501 January 2002 60

Purpose and Function of the Appraisal

Date of Appraisal

Definition of Value

PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS AND DATA COLLECTION

The purpose of all appraisals is to estimate value of some sort. An appraisal for property tax

purposes renders a valuation, consistent with property tax law, that will be used as the basis for

assessing the property.

An opinion of value is valid as of the specified date of the appraisal. For most real property in

California, the relevant appraisal date for property tax purposes is the date on which a change in

ownership of property occurred or new construction was completed. The statutory lien date,

January 1, is also a relevant date of appraisal in many instances.

A critical aspect of an appraisal is to obtain a precise definition of value pertinent to the purpose

of the appraisal. Excluding several exceptions noted in Chapter 2, the value to be estimated for

property tax purposes is fair market value. The statutory definition of fair market value was

provided in Chapter 2, which also discusses the exceptions to the fair market value standard.

The preliminary analysis phase develops a logistical plan for the appraisal. This step includes a

preliminary inspection of the property and its surroundings; a list of the data, time, and resources

needed; a preliminary estimate of the property's highest and best use; and a selection of the

primary approaches to value that will be used.

A competent appraisal is supported by information from the real estate market. This information

is referred to as "market data." All relevant data about the property should be considered,

including primary data collected in the field and data from secondary sources. Market data may

be divided into three categories: general, specific, and comparative.

General data pertain to information about trends in the environmental, social, economic, and

governmental forces that affect property value. Trends occur at the national, regional,

community, and neighborhood level. Comparative data pertain to the physical, financial, and

operating characteristics of comparable properties that will be used in the appraisal. Specific data

pertain to the subject property itself. For example, both the site and its improvements are

examined to gather information regarding their utility. Financial and operating information about

the property is also obtained, as is information about any restrictions or easements that affect the

possible future uses and/or utility of the property. All appraisal methods require the collection

and verification of data by appraisers, and the collection and maintenance of appraisal data is a

primary concern of assessors' offices.

All taxable property (both state and locally assessed) is assessed annually for property tax purposes as of 12:01

a.m. on January 1, which is referred to as the lien date. It is referred to as the lien date because on this date the taxes

become a lien against all real property assessed on the secured roll.

AH 501 January 2002 61

HIGHEST AND BEST USE ANALYSIS

After determining the data requirements and collecting the data, the appraiser analyzes the

property's highest and best use in light of market forces and conditions. The value estimate is

premised on the assumption that the highest and best use has been identified. Under competitive

market conditions there is a strong tendency for property to be used in the most productive

manner; that is, there is a high probability that the current or existing use is also the highest and

best use of the property. The determination of highest and best use is also necessary in order to

select the comparable properties used in the appraisal.

LAND VALUE ESTIMATE

Land value is directly related to the highest and best use determination. In fact, the determination

of the highest and best use of the land as though vacant requires a land value estimate. A separate

estimate of land value is needed for at least two reasons. First, an estimate of land value under its

highest and best use as though vacant is required in some appraisal approaches or techniques.

Both the cost approach and the building residual technique in the income approach, for example,

require separate land value estimates. Second, the property tax appraiser is required to allocate

the total property value between land and improvements, which may be accomplished through a

separate estimate of land value. This also produces an estimate of the contributory value of the

improvements. The estimation of land value is discussed later in this chapter.

APPLICATION OF THE APPROACHES TO VALUE

An important step in the appraisal process is the determination of the appropriate method or

methods by which the value will be estimated. Typically, the appraiser considers three primary

approaches to value. Each approach, from a different perspective, simulates the thought

processes of the typical buyer in a competitive market. The three approaches are the cost,

comparative sales, and income approaches.

In the cost approach, the appraiser estimates the market value of a property by: (1) estimating the

cost of either reproducing the existing improvements with duplicate improvements or replacing

the existing improvements with improvements of equivalent utility as of the appraisal date; (2)

reducing that estimated cost by the amount of depreciation, or loss in value; and (3) adding the

estimated value of the land or site to the depreciated cost of the improvements. The cost

approach thus requires a separate estimate of land or site value. The cost approach is primarily

based on the principle of substitution.

In the comparative sales approach, the appraiser estimates market value by comparing the subject

property to comparable properties of similar utility that have recently sold under competitive

market conditions. The sales prices of comparable properties provide indicators of the market

value of the property being appraised. The comparable sales prices are adjusted to reflect

differences in utility from the property being appraised. The comparative sales approach is also

primarily based on the principle of substitution.

AH 501 January 2002 62

In the income approach, the appraiser estimates value by first estimating the future income to be

produced by the property and then discounting or "capitalizing" the future income into an

estimate of current market value. The income approach is premised on the concept that value is

equal to the present worth of future benefits. The income approach is primarily based on the

principle of anticipation. Each of the three approaches to value is discussed in more detail in

Chapter 6.

RECONCILIATION OF VALUE INDICATORS AND THE FINAL VALUE ESTIMATE

The reconciliation of value indicators from the separate approaches to value and the resulting

final value estimate is the next step in the appraisal process. Theoretically, the approaches to

value should produce identical value indicators. In practice, however, this is rarely the case, and

significant differences may occur. To produce a final value estimate, the appraiser reconciles the

indicators from each approach utilized. Value indicators should be reconciled considering: (1) the

appropriateness of the approach given the purpose of the appraisal; and (2) the adequacy and

reliability of the data available to perform the appraisal. The appraiser should examine and

reconcile all value indicators.

The final value estimate is not a simple average of the value indicators; one or two approaches

often have greater significance and are given greater weight by the appraiser. The final value

estimate must reconcile all available indicators in an analytical manner. While the final value

estimate is an opinion of value, it should be a reasoned and defensible opinion based on verified

market data. Reconciliation in the appraisal process is also discussed in Chapter 6.

REPORTING THE FINAL VALUE ESTIMATE

The final step in the appraisal process is reporting the final value estimate. An appraisal may be

reported in a letter, a form, or a narrative. In appraising for property tax purposes, form reports

are generally used although short narrative reports may be used for complex properties and in

assessment appeals cases.

LAND VALUATION

A separate appraisal of land may be conducted for several reasons. First, and most obvious, the

subject of an appraisal may be vacant land, rather than improved property. Second, since land

and improvements are evaluated as separate economic components in some appraisal techniques,

a separate estimate of land value is often needed as part of an improved property appraisal. For

example, the cost approach and some income capitalization techniques require separate estimates

of land value. Finally, an appraisal for property tax purposes requires an allocation of value

between land and improvements, even though the property is appraised as an integral unit.

This

allocation is generally accomplished by making an estimate of land value.

Regarding the separate assessment of land and improvements, see California Constitution, article XIII, section 13;

and section 607.

AH 501 January 2002 63

A distinction should be made between site value and undeveloped, or raw, land value. A site may

be defined as a parcel of land that has been improved for its intended use. Undeveloped land

exists in its natural state and has not been improved. For example, a residential site must have

access, utilities, drainage, etc., and the value of the site must reflect these factors over and above

the value of an undeveloped but otherwise similar parcel. When appraising most improved sites,

the appraiser is more precisely concerned with site value rather than raw land value. The land

value used in the cost approach and some techniques of the income approach is actually a site

value.

In this section, the general topic of land or site valuation is divided into three subtopics: (1) land

identification and description; (2) land analysis; and (3) methods of land appraisal.

LAND IDENTIFICATION AND DESCRIPTION

Before a property can be appraised, it must be identified and described. Property tax appraisers

should be generally familiar with legal methods of describing property for property tax purposes

and with the assessment parcel identification system. All are discussed below.

Legal Descriptions

A proper identification of real property is essential for all documents that affect title. The legal

conveyance of title by deed requires a precise legal description that specifies the property's exact

boundaries. Three methods commonly used to legally describe land are metes and bounds,

rectangular survey, and subdivision maps. A legal description may also be a hybrid of these

methods. For property tax purposes, other methods are permitted by law. The delineation of

parcels according to the assessment parcel identification system commonly used in assessors'

offices is also based on legal descriptions contained in recorded deeds and other documents.

Metes and Bounds

The oldest form of legal description is by metes and bounds. "Metes" means measurements or

distances, and "bounds" means boundaries. Metes and bounds continues to be used, particularly

for irregular parcels. A metes and bounds description gives the distance and compass direction of

each boundary line of the property. It starts at a "point of beginning" and traces all the way

around the property boundary back to that point. The earliest metes and bounds descriptions did

not use compass directions or distances, but instead referred to identifiable physical features such

as rivers or fences that "bounded" the property in question. Any parcel of land can be described

using a metes and bounds description, for example,

Beg. At a point 30 ft. N. Of the S. W. Cor. Of Sec. 18,T. 6 S.R. 8 E. Mt. Diablo B.

& M., th. N. along the section line 396.36 ft., th. N. 89° 35' E. 210.14 ft., th. S

396.36 ft., th. S.89° 35' W. 210.14 ft to beg.

Rectangular Survey

In 1785, the United States Congress approved a method of land description, known as the

government or rectangular survey system, for the purpose of describing and disposing of lands in

AH 501 January 2002 64

the public domain. Land description in all states west of the Mississippi (except Texas) and

several states east of the Mississippi is based on this method.

The rectangular survey system is based on principal meridians running north and south and base

lines running east and west, located by the original surveyors to intersect at established

landmarks. Most of the land area of the United States can be described using principal base lines

and meridians as primary reference points. California has three principal base lines and

meridians: Humboldt, Mt. Diablo, and San Bernardino.

Land on each side of a principal meridian is divided into six-mile-wide strips known as ranges,

which are numbered consecutively, east or west, from the principal meridian. Range lines run

north and south. Lines running parallel to a base line and six miles apart are called township

lines. Township lines run east and west. Range and township lines form the basic unit of the

system, the township, which is six miles square. A township is referred to by the intersection of a

principal base line and meridian—for example, Township 5 North, Range 3 West, San Bernadino

base line and meridian. This description uniquely references a quadrant of approximately 36

square miles. The area is an approximation because of the curvature of the earth.

Finally, each township is divided into 36 sections of approximately one square mile (640 acres)

each. Section 1 is in the northeast corner of the township. Section numbers proceed westward to

the boundary of the township, then southward 1 section, and eastward again. The process

continues until all the sections are numbered. Sections may be further divided into fractional

portions, for example,

W 1/2, SW 1/4, SW 1/4, SE 1/4, Sec. 12 T. 3N., R2 W M.D.B. & M, which

would equal 5 acres.

Subdivision Maps

A common modern method of legal description is based on recorded subdivision maps. This

method is also referred to as description by lot and block or by recorded plat. Most local

governments, as part of the land development process, require the preparation of a subdivision

map showing the streets and lots in the new development. A subdivision map divides the

property into lots and, for larger subdivisions, into blocks of lots. Each block and lot on the map

is identified by a number, and the subdivision map itself is also given a number. When the

subdivision map is approved by the local jurisdiction, the map is recorded and becomes a part of

the public record. Recorded maps are filed using a system of books and pages. A legal

description using this method contains the lot number, the block number (if applicable), and the

number of the subdivision map. A legal description by recorded map is short and easy to

understand, for example,

Jones Sub., M.B. 16-86, Lot 16 Blk. 10 (read as: Jones Subdivision, Map Book

16-86, Lot 16 of Block 10).

Appendix B contains a depiction of a section.

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Condominium units are described using a slight variation of the subdivision map method. A

condominium map is recorded and filed, dividing the property into condominium units. Each unit

is given a number on the condominium map. The map also shows the areas of the project under

common ownership. A legal description using this method contains the unit number of the

condominium, the number of the condominium map itself, and a reference to the fractional share

of the common area that is owned by a particular unit.

Spanish Land Grants

Official Maps

Owner's Maps

Hybrid

When the federal government first surveyed California lands, Spanish land grants (or "ranchos")

were excluded from the survey. Because they were privately owned when California became part

of the United States, only the exterior boundaries of the ranchos were surveyed when

sectionalizing all adjoining lands. However, many ranchos were sectionalized by property

owners, who hired private surveyors.

If a Spanish land grant has been sectionalized according to the rectangular survey system, it is not

sufficient to describe the property by section, township, and range. Since it was not surveyed

under the authority of the United States, it is necessary to also give the name of the rancho, for

example,

Rho. El Sobrante Sec. 16 T.8 S., R. 12 W., M. D. B. & M. (describing 640 acres).

The rancho name should always be used in a description of property within a rancho unless the

description is by reference to a subdivision or plat map.

Official maps are drafted by city engineers or county surveyors under the direction of a city

council or board of supervisors. Each map must be properly certified and filed. The size and scale

of maps are not specified by law.

Owner's maps are filed under the provisions of section 326 by the owner, claimant, or user of the

land. They must contain enough information to clearly identify the land and must be properly

filed with the assessor or the State Board of Equalization.

A legal description is sometimes a combination of the above methods. The rectangular survey

method works well for describing large tracts of land. However, the method is less suitable for

use in urban areas, where lot sizes are much smaller. A legal description of a smaller parcel

might use a combination of rectangular survey and metes and bounds. For example, a rectangular

survey description might be used to get to the point of beginning of a metes and bounds

description used thereafter. As another example involving an urban lot, a combination of

descriptions by metes and bounds and subdivision map might be used. A metes and bounds

AH 501 January 2002 66

description may be used to first describe the boundaries of the entire subdivision, with individual

lots described using a subdivision map.

A special case arises if individual parcels or subdivisions (e.g., for condominiums or offices) are

created and acquired by air rights. Typically, air lots are described by identifying and describing

the ground parcel (e.g., by metes and bounds description), and then noting the vertical

measurements of the airspace above the ground lot. Vertical measurements refer to a known

point of vertical height known as a datum. A subdivision map could then follow from this

description.

Assessment Parcel Identification Systems

In property tax appraisal, the primary means of real property identification is the assessor's parcel

numbering system, which links property ownership, the assessor's maps, and the assessment roll

entry. In essence, it is the taxpayer's account number, uniquely identifying each parcel in a

manner that is less cumbersome than the legal descriptions described above.

All assessors maintain a set of assessor's maps for identifying property. These maps are created

from the legal descriptions contained in recorded documents; they are based on the several

methods of legal description described above. The assessor's parcel numbering system consists of

a map book number, a page number within the map book, a block number (if applicable, as in

urban areas), and the parcel number within the block. Each parcel is uniquely identified by an

assessor's parcel number (APN). By such a system, each county is divided into geographical map

books, each map book is in turn divided into map pages, each map page is divided into blocks (if

applicable), and each block is divided into individual parcels. The State Board maintains a

similar mapping system for state-assessed property. However, land may not be described by

assessor's parcel map or Board map in any deed or conveyance unless the map has been filed for

record with the county recorder.

As this manual has stressed, land has value because of its productivity related to a purpose or use.

For property tax purposes, with few exceptions, land is valued at its highest and best use, and the

appraiser is concerned with the factors that affect highest and best use. For the purpose of this

discussion, these factors are divided into three general categories: (1) governmental restrictions;

(2) physical characteristics; and (3) locational characteristics.

LAND OR SITE ANALYSIS

Governmental Restrictions

Governmental restrictions place legal constraints on property use that significantly affect the

utilization of land and hence its value. There are many types of governmental restrictions on land

use. They include zoning, building and safety, subdivision, and environmental regulations.

Description of land for property tax purposes is addressed in sections 321 through 328. Also, see Assessors'

Handbook Section 215, Assessment Map Standards.

AH 501 January 2002 67

The zoning regulations of local governments are the most significant form of governmental

restriction. Zoning regulations address permitted uses of land, density or intensity of use, setback

or sideyard requirements, building height restrictions, on-site parking requirements, and other

land use matters. Zoning ordinances also stipulate the conditions under which variances from

zoning restrictions are granted and how non-conforming uses are treated.

Building and safety regulations include housing codes, building codes, plumbing codes, electrical

codes, etc. The requirements contained in these regulations may affect the financial feasibility of

proposed development.

Subdivision laws set requirements for lot density and design, grading and drainage, and on- and

off-site improvements (e.g., streets and utilities).

Environmental regulation is a final category of governmental restrictions. These restrictions

include water and sewer system connection moratoria, flood zone or geologic hazard zone

designations, remediation requirements for toxic wastes, etc.

Physical Characteristics

Locational Characteristics

METHODS OF LAND APPRAISAL

Comparative Sales

The physical characteristi

cs of land significantly affect its development potential and hence its

value. Important physical characteristics include parcel size and shape, frontage, topography, soil

and subsoil conditions and drainage, site orientation, and existing on-site and off-site

improvements. Some of these characteristics were discussed in Chapter 4.

The most important single attribute of land is its location. As also discussed in Chapter 4, the

essence of location involves space and the need to transport people, goods, and services from one

geographic location to another. The locational requirements of a given parcel depend upon its

use, which relates to the linkages required by the subject parcel with other parcels.

Land or site value can be estimated using the six methods of land valuation discussed below.

These methods are: (1) c

omparative sales; (2) allocation; (3) extraction; (4) subdivision

development; (5) land residual; and (6) ground rent capitalization.

The comparative sales approach is used to value land that is vacant, or that is considered vacant

for appraisal purposes. There must be a sufficient number of comparable vacant land sales in

A non-conforming use is an existing use not allowed under the current zoning ordinance, but which either

preceded the current ordinance or exists under a conditional use permit.

In Mola Development Corporation v. Orange County Assessment Appeals Board No.2 (2000) 80 Cal.App.4

309,

the court held that the assessor must recognize the cost of toxic waste cleanup which has reduced the fair market

value of property - under section 110. See also Dominguez Energy, L.P. v. County of Los Angeles (1997) 56

Cal.App.4

839; and Firestone Tire & Rubber Co. v. County of Monterey (1993) 12 Cal.App.4

634.

See Chapter 4 under " Nature of Real Estate Productivity."

AH 501 January 2002 68

order to use this approach. The appraiser should select comparable sales that are similar to the

subject in regard to the primary elements of comparison (i.e., property rights conveyed, terms of

the sale, market conditions, and locational and physical characteristics). The comparables must

have the same highest and best use as the subject. Comparable sales are analyzed and adjusted

for differences compared to the subject property in order to arrive at an indicator of value for the

land being appraised. The comparative sales approach produces the best indicator of value when

a sufficient number of recent sales of comparable properties exist.

Comparable sales prices (pre- or post-adjustment for the elements of comparison) are often

converted into units of comparison in order to derive indicators of value. Units of comparison are

components into which a property may be divided for purposes of comparison and should be

selected by the appraiser based on what is typically used by market participants. Five units of

comparison used in the appraisal of vacant land are: sale price per front foot; sale price per

square foot; sale price per acre; sale price per building site; and sale price per units buildable.

Comparison by sale price per front foot assumes that frontage is a primary determinant of value.

A front foot is a strip of land one foot wide that fronts a street, freeway, or body of water. This

unit of comparison is useful in the appraisal of commercial sites that benefit from drive-by or

other visibility. It is infrequently used in the appraisal of residential properties. Comparison by

sale price per square foot is applicable in industrial and commercial properties in which square

footage is a good measure of development potential and frontage is not the dominant factor.

Comparison by sale price per acre is typically used in the valuation of large industrial or

commercial sites, subdivision land, and rural and farm properties. Comparison by sale price per

building site assumes that buyers purchase a site with limited concern for small differences in

front footage or square footage, and are instead primarily concerned with the site's overall

desirability (e.g., views or exposure) for residential purposes. Finally, comparison by sale price

per units buildable assumes that market participants value land based on its development

potential on a units-buildable basis, for example, sale price per apartment unit, condominium

unit, or single-family lot.

Allocation

In the allocation method, a portion of total property value is allocated to the site. This method is

based on the principles of balance and contribution, which hold that a typical ratio between land

value and total property value exists for similar types or classes of property, in comparable

locations, at a given period of time. The allocation method is typically used to estimate the site

value of an improved property, but it can also be used to estimate the value of a vacant site.

To apply this method, it is necessary to estimate a ratio between land and building value. This

can be done by analyzing ratios of site value to total property value in comparable neighborhoods

where sales of vacant and improved properties have occurred. This ratio is then applied to the

subject property to estimate its site value.

The comparative sales approach in regard to improved property is discussed in Chapter 6. Much of that discussion

is also applicable here.

AH 501 January 2002 69

Extraction

Subdivision Development

Land Residual

The extraction me

thod i

s a variation of the allocation method. In this method, site value is

estimated by subtracting the value contribution of the improvements from total property value.

The contributory value of the improvements is typically based on an estimate of depreciated cost

(i.e., replacement cost new less depreciation). This method is most reliable for properties with

limited improvements, and it may be used to derive site value indicators for vacant sites or

improved properties.

The subdivision development method is also known as the land development or anticipated use

method. It is primarily used to value vacant land that is ready for development to a higher use, for

example, land changing from agricultural to residential or commercial use.

This method involves the hypothetical development of land. First, the appraiser estimates the

number of lots or sites that can be produced and their market values. This allows an estimate of

the gross market value of the project as if developed. Second, the appraiser estimates the total

development cost for the project. Total development cost includes all direct and indirect costs of

development: the cost of construction (i.e., labor and materials, contractor's overhead and profit);

land planning, engineering, and other professional fees; property taxes and financing charges

during construction; entrepreneurial profit; anticipated sales marketing expenses; and other

applicable costs. Finally, total development costs are subtracted from the projected gross sales

prices of the developed lots to derive an estimated value for the vacant land.

The subdivision

method should generally be used only when the comparative sales method cannot be used, or in

conjunction with other methods.

The land residual method is similar to the subdivision method in that it hypothesizes a highest

and best use of the site upon which the indicator of land value is premised. It requires: an

estimate of building value under the premise of highest and best use; an estimate of annual net

operating income under the premise of highest and best use; and market-derived capitalization

rates for the land and building.

To apply the method, the appraiser first estimates the highest and best use of the site as though

vacant. Second, based on this hypothetical use, the appraiser estimates the annual net operating

income of the property. Third, the appraiser estimates, using the building capitalization rate, the

portion of total property income attributable to the building, and subtracts this amount from the

This discussion is simplified. A more detailed treatment would also consider the time value of money.

AH 501 January 2002 70

net operating income. What remains is the income attributable, or residual, to the land. Finally,

the appraiser capitalizes this residual income into an estimate of land value using the land

capitalization rate.

Ground Rent Capitalization

The ground rent capitalization method is also an application of the income approach. Ground rent

is the rent paid for the use of land. In this method, the appraiser capitalizes the ground rent into

an indicator of land value. The method can be used to estimate the value of vacant land or to

estimate the site value of improved property. The method requires: an estimate of the market rent

for the subject land; an estimate of any expenses paid by the landowner; and a market-derived

capitalization rate for the land.

To apply the method, the appraiser capitalizes the estimated market rent, less any anticipated

expenses of the owner, into an indicator of value using the land capitalization rate. Since ground

rent by definition is income imputable only to the land, an income attributable to improvements

is not subtracted as in the land residual method.

Land Value and Improvement Bonds

General

Local governments assist private parties in financing the development of land by participating in

the formation of local special assessment districts. These districts issue improvement bonds to

the general public that are used in the construction of land improvements, or infrastructure, such

as roads, schools, and utility services, that generally enhance land value. To obtain improvement

bond financing, land parcels benefiting from the improvements must be pledged as security for

the bond debt. These liens run with the land. The bonds are typically repaid over a period of years

by special levies against the parcels collected along with property taxes.

Appraisers should be familiar with two categories of bonds: (1) improvement bonds issued under

the Improvement Bond Act of 1911, the Municipal Improvement Act of 1913, or the

Improvement Bond Act of 1915; and (2) improvement bonds issued under the Mello-Roos

Community Facilities Act of 1982.

Bonds Under the 1911, 1913, or 1915 Acts

According to subdivision (b) of section 110 "[t]here is a rebuttable presumption that the value of

improvements financed by the proceeds of an improvement bond resulting in a lien imposed on

the property by a public entity is reflected in the total consideration, exclusive of that lien

amount, involved in the transaction. This presumption may be overcome if the assessor

establishes by a preponderance of the evidence that all or a portion of the value of those

improvements is not reflected in that consideration." For example, otherwise similar properties

The land residual method is an application of the income approach. The income approach is discussed in Chapter

6. The net operating income referred to here is the same as net income before taxes and recapture as defined in

Chapter 6.

AH 501 January 2002 71

may sell for the same sale price regardless of the existence or nonexistence of 1911, 1913, or

1915 Act bonds. If this is the case, the appraiser may conclude that the fair market value of the

subject property encumbered with a 1911, 1913, or 1915 Act bond is equal to its nominal sale

price and not its adjusted sale price that includes the fair market value of the 1911, 1913, or 1915

Act bond.

The nominal sale price of a property encumbered by an outstanding 1911, 1913, or 1915 Act

improvement bond is not necessarily the "purchase price" of the property as defined in section

110(b). Since purchase price is defined as "the total consideration provided by the purchaser or

on the purchaser's behalf, valued in money, whether paid in money or otherwise," where this type

of improvement bond is present, the total consideration provided by the purchaser is in part "paid

in money" and in part "paid otherwise." The "paid otherwise" consideration in the case of a

property that sells subject to a 1911, 1913, or 1915 Act bond is the fair market value of the

outstanding improvement bond.

A bond, until retired, remains an encumbrance against the property. The existence of the bond

may influence the sale price, and, as a result, the sale price may not reflect the property's market

value. The appraiser should be aware of this when considering the sale price as an indicator of

market value or when selecting comparables in areas where this type of financing is used.

Rule 4(a) requires that the appraiser "convert a noncash sale price to its cash equivalent by

estimating the value in cash of any tangible or intangible property other than cash which the

seller accepted in full or partial payment for the subject property and adding it to the cash portion

of the sale price…." As an application of this general requirement, the sale price of a property

encumbered by a 1911, 1913, or 1915 Act bond must be adjusted to reflect the fair market value

of the outstanding bond. The fair market value of the outstanding improvement bond to be added

to the sale price, if any, may be determined by the following methods: (1) reference to sales of

comparable properties; or (2) by discounting the bonds to a cash equivalent amount. The adjusted

sale price is arrived at by adding the market value of the improvement bond to the sale price of

the property. The sale price so adjusted is the "purchase price" of the property as defined in

section 110(b).

Mello-Roos Bonds

In contrast to 1911, 1913, or 1915 Act improvement bonds, Mello-Roos bond obligations should

not be included in the value of land subject to Mello-Roos encumbrances.

In the case of the 1911, 1913, or 1915 Acts, the bonded indebtedness is tied to specific parcels; in

other words, at any point in time it is possible to determine and to pay off the exact bond

principal outstanding against each parcel. Furthermore, the additional taxes are levied for the

express purpose of retiring a specific debt against a specific parcel. Finally, improvements

authorized under these Acts are generally for a somewhat limited range of capital improvements

that provide a specific benefit to specific parcels.

AH 501 January 2002 72

But Mello-Roos Bonds differ from the above on all counts. First, although the bond debt is

secured by a lien against the property, the principal amount of Mello-Roos bonds is normally not

tied to specific parcels. Second, the tax rate or levy for Mello-Roos bonds may be in excess of

what is needed to retire the bonds. This gives Mello-Roos bonds the potential to provide greater

security to bondholders than improvement bonds would in financing comparable facilities.

Finally, Mello-Roos bonds are authorized for a wider variety of facilities and services than under

the 1911, 1913, or 1915 Acts. Mello-Roos bonds require no test of benefit and are authorized for

the construction of governmental facilities that the legislative body creating the district is

authorized by law to construct, own, or operate. As such, levies under Mello-Roos are similar to

a general property tax levy for general fund purposes.

AH 501 January 2002 73

CHAPTER 6: APPROACHES TO VALUE

APPLYING THE APPROACHES TO VALUE

The three major appraisal approaches for estimating value are the cost, comparative sales (or

sales comparison), and income approaches. Rule 3 prescribes the application of one or more of

the following five approaches to value in order to arrive at fair market value: (1) comparative

sales approach: (2) stock and debt approach; (3) replacement/reproduction cost approach; (4)

historical cost approach; or (5) income approach. The stock and debt approach is a variation of

the comparative sales approach. The replacement, reproduction, and historical cost approaches

are variations of the cost approach.

In the absence of reliable sales data, the cost and income approaches assume greater importance.

If a property is owned for the purpose of obtaining rental income or providing space for an

owner-operated business, and if there is an active rental market for similar facilities, the income

approach becomes more applicable. However, if there are neither comparable sales nor rents paid

for comparable properties, the cost approach assumes greater weight.

Each appraisal approach utilized should be carried out independently from the others. A value

indicator from the cost approach, for example, should not be forced to agree with a value

indicator from the comparative sales approach. If this is the case, a proper application of the cost

approach did not actually occur; rather, the cost approach was discarded in favor of the

comparative sales approach, mislabeled as a cost approach. Each approach utilized should be

completed on the basis of market data applicable to that approach, and all data should be derived

from the market identified as relevant to the property being appraised. If each approach to value

is performed independently, the resulting value indicators will define a value range and allow a

rational and defensible final estimate of value.

Although all three approaches to value should be considered, the use of all three may not always

be appropriate. The nature of a property, its market, and the availability of data will normally

indicate which approach(es) is most applicable. Because most single-family residences are

owned for the amenities they provide and not for their potential rental income, the cost and

comparative sales approaches are generally more appropriate when appraising this property type.

Commercial properties may be appraised using all three methods, but limited sales of closely

comparable properties may render the cost and income approaches more appropriate and reliable

when appraising commercial properties.

The appraiser, therefore, should analyze all the data available on a subject property and utilize the

most applicable approach(es) in the appraisal. This is supported by rule 3, which states, in part:

In estimating value as defined in section 2, the assessor shall consider one or more

of the following [approaches to value], as may be appropriate for the property

being appraised. (Emphasis added.)

AH 501 January 2002 74

Independent application of the approaches utilized will lead to separate indicators of value. The

final analytical step in the appraisal process is to reconcile the separate indicators into a final

value estimate. In the reconciliation process, each indicator is reviewed and reconsidered.

Consideration should be given to factors influencing value that are not reflected or only partially

reflected in the indicators. One should not make a simple arithmetic average of the several

values. The greatest weight should be given to the approach(es) that most reliably measures the

type of benefits sought by buyers in the market for the subject property.

COST APPROACH

INTRODUCTION

In the cost approach, the value of an improved property is estimated by adding the estimated land

(or site) value and the estimated cost new of the improvements less depreciation. The cost

approach can also be used to estimate the value of personal property. Appraisers should refer to

Chapter 6 of Assessors' Handbook Section 502, Advanced Appraisal, for additional information

about the use of the cost approach to estimate the assessable value of new construction.

The cost approach is the most universally applied approach in appraisal for property tax purposes

and, under rule 6, is preferred when neither reliable sales nor income data are available. The cost

approach is the only approach that can be applied to all improved real property and personal

property. Many properties are rarely sold and/or do not have calculable incomes, but costs are

incurred for all properties. Furthermore, particularly in the case of real property, it is frequently

desirable to first perform the cost approach because important facts can be learned about the

subject property that will be useful when performing the comparative sales and/or income

approach.

Rule 6(a) directs when to use the cost approach:

The reproduction or replacement cost approach to value is used in conjunction

with other value approaches and is preferred when neither reliable sales data

(including sales of fractional interests) nor reliable income data are available and

when the income from the property is not so regulated as to make such cost

irrelevant. It is particularly appropriate for construction work in progress and for

other property that has experienced relatively little physical deterioration, is not

misplaced, is neither over- nor underimproved, and is not affected by other forms

of depreciation or obsolescence.

There is no necessary relationship between the concept of cost and the actual costs experienced

by a builder in a specific case. Builders construct homes with varying degrees of efficiency and

incur varying costs. The estimate of cost by the appraiser should reflect the costs of typical

producers who do the bulk of the work. This means that typical costs will be higher than those of

the most efficient producers and lower than those of the least efficient. Typical costs should not

reflect such items as special deals, change orders, poor management, and errors.

AH 501 January 2002 75

RELATION BETWEEN COST AND VALUE

The rationale for the use of the cost approach is based upon the economic principle of

substitution. As discussed in Chapter 4, this principle holds that a rational person will pay no

more for a property than the cost of acquiring a satisfactory substitute, assuming no costly delay.

The condition of no costly delay must be satisfied, or the cost of the delay must be added to the

cost of a substitute property. If a property owner would not, or economically should not,

construct a replacement for the existing property if it were destroyed, then a value indicator from

the cost approach has little relationship to market value. This occurs when reconstruction would

not be economically feasible.

Real property cost tends to equal value only when the improvement is new and reflects highest

and best use. The cost approach is most reliable when the property being appraised is relatively

new and has experienced little depreciation. The reliability of the approach decreases as

depreciation of the property increases (typically with the age of the property), due to the difficulty

of estimating depreciation.

COSTS TO INCLUDE

Full Economic Costs

Costs for appraisal purposes may be thought of as full economic costs. Full economic costs are

defined as the payments that must be made to secure the supply of all the necessary agents of

production. Costs necessary to construct a property and make it ready for its intended use may be

classified as either direct or indirect costs. Direct costs are expenditures for the labor and

materials required to construct the property. They include expenditures for permits, materials and

labor, and contractor's overhead and profit. Indirect costs are expenditures not included in the

direct construction of the property. They include expenditures for the developer's administrative

expenses, professional fees, construction financing, construction insurance, property taxes during

construction, and marketing, sales, and lease-up costs incurred to achieve initial occupancy or

sale. For personal property, some or all indirect costs may be included in the selling price. In

addition to direct and indirect costs, the appraiser must also recognize, as part of the cost of

creating a property, the return to the entrepreneur for his or her development expertise and risk-

taking. This component of cost is referred to as entrepreneurial profit and is distinguished from

contractor's overhead and profit, a direct cost noted above. Full economic cost includes market-

supportable entrepreneurial profit as well as all direct and indirect costs.

In the case of real property, improvement cost is the total cost of development of the

improvements added to a site, exclusive of the cost of items classified as land. This includes the

cost of labor and materials, contractor's overhead and profit, building permits, inspection fees,

bonding costs, architect's fees, cost of insurance during construction, interest on invested and

borrowed capital during construction, marketing and lease-up expenses, and entrepreneurial

profit. Cost is the sum of all payments made to achieve the creation of the improvement. In the

case of personal property, total cost includes (but is not limited to) the cost of the asset, freight,

sales tax, and installation.

AH 501 January 2002 76

The general principle is that the costs of all functions necessary to place the property in the hands

of the consumer are part of the total cost of production. "Necessary" should be emphasized. If a

house is painted several times because the owner cannot decide on a color scheme, this would

create an unnecessary cost, and only the cost of one painting should be included in the cost

estimate. Other costs that do not represent normal costs should also be excluded. Abnormal costs

include those generated by strikes, lockouts, floods, excessive overtime pay, unforeseen

hardships, etc.

Certain costs, while often not explicit, are nonetheless included in total cost. For example, if an

owner/builder provides his or her own labor, he or she may not consider it a cost, but it should be

a part of the appraiser's cost estimate. If an owner/builder provides construction capital (i.e., there

is no outside construction financing), the cost of construction financing, based on current market

rates and terms, should be imputed as a necessary cost of production.

The initial sale of a

property from the builder to the first user is also a necessary economic function, and the cost of

this transfer should be included as part of total cost (subsequent transfers, however, are merely

transfers of an already-produced commodity). Cost factors for residential property usually

provide for this initial transfer cost, but it may be necessary to separately add transfer costs for

other types of real property and for personal property. Other valid components of cost, such as

feasibility studies, planning expenses and fees, leasing expenses (all indirect costs), and

entrepreneurial profit vary widely in amount according to property type and the circumstances

surrounding development, and the appraiser should determine whether these costs are included in

any standard cost tables used. If not included, the appraiser should separately add them to arrive

at an estimate of total cost.

The existence of entrepreneurial profit should be confirmed by reference to other market

indicators of value. Section 401.6(a) provides special instruction concerning a cost component

for entrepreneurial profit in the case of special use properties. It states, in part:

In any case in which the cost approach method is used to value special use

property for purposes of taxation, the assessor shall not add a component for

entrepreneurial profit unless he or she has market-derived evidence that

entrepreneurial profit exists and has not been fully offset by physical deterioration

or economic obsolescence.

The section goes on to define "special use property" as "a limited market property with a unique

physical design, special construction materials, or a layout which restricts its utility to the use for

which it was built."

This only applies to financing costs during the construction period. Financing costs, actual or imputed, attributable

to the holding of the property after the completion of construction, including purchase financing, should not be

included in the cost of construction.

When making the cost estimate of a building, for example, it is important to be certain that standard cost factors

used are based only on the costs to replace the subject building, and that the factors do not include extraneous costs.

AH 501 January 2002 77

REPRODUCTION COST, REPLACEMENT COST, AND HISTORICAL COST

Rule 3 prescribes more than one type of cost approach that the appraiser may use. The three

variations of the cost approach provided in the rule are reproduction cost, replacement cost, and

historical cost.

Reproduction Cost

Reproduction cost is the cost to replace an existing property with a replica as of a particular date.

Strictly construed, reproduction cost calls for identical materials and quality of workmanship.

This variation of the cost approach is of limited usefulness because it is frequently not possible or

desirable to duplicate an existing property, due either to the lack of certain materials or trade

skills, or to the functional obsolescence of an older property. The difficulty of using reproduction

cost increases as a property ages. Certain structural and design features in older properties are

obsolete and would not be replaced in a substitute property. Such features may have been

desirable at the time the property was built, but today would add cost and produce little utility or

value. For example, a modern commercial or industrial building, because of advances in

structural design and materials, would not include two-foot-thick masonry walls. Similarly, in the

case of personal property, improvements in a manufacturing process may eliminate the need for

some components of a machine or line of equipment.

The fact that a property would probably not be duplicated renders reproduction cost less valid as

an indicator of market value, since the cost approach, as noted, is based upon the principle of

substitution. This lack of validity can be overcome if depreciation is accurately estimated.

However, the depreciation estimate, discussed later in this chapter, is somewhat difficult and is

the most subjective portion of the cost approach.

Rule 6 provides two methods of estimating reproduction cost: (1) by adjusting a property's

original cost for price level changes; and (2) by applying current costs to a property's cost

components to arrive at an estimate of full economic cost. The estimate of reproduction cost must

be reduced by estimated depreciation to arrive at an indicator of fair market value.

Replacement Cost

Replacement cost is the cost to replace an existing property with a property of equivalent utility

as of a particular date. The replacement cost concept is the most meaningful as far as the

principle of substitution is concerned.

In the replacement cost approach, elements of a property that would clearly not be included in a

substitute property of equal utility are excluded from the estimated replacement cost. The

procedures to be followed in replacement cost estimating vary somewhat depending upon

whether the property is industrial, commercial, rural, or residential real property, or tangible

personal property.

The replacement cost method is difficult to apply in the case of complex, one-of-a-kind structures

or highly specialized equipment. Such properties often include many necessary features that are

either not evident or for which current replacement costs are not readily available.

AH 501 78 January 2002

Applying current costs to the property's cost components creates an estimate of full economic

costs. The estimate of replacement cost must be reduced by the amount of estimated depreciation

to arrive at an indicator of fair market value.

Historical Cost

The essence of historical cost is that it reflects the level of cost at the time of a property's original

construction or acquisition. Historical cost is often the reported book cost, but in some cases

book cost must be adjusted to reflect the full economic cost of the property as of the date of

construction or acquisition. Historical, or original, cost appears in rules 3 and 6 in two contexts:

(1) as a method of estimating reproduction cost; and (2) as the historical cost approach used in

the valuation of rate-regulated properties.

Under rule 6(b), historical, or original, cost is used as a method of estimating reproduction cost

using price indices or factors. The estimate of reproduction cost must be reduced by the amount

of estimated depreciation to arrive at an indicator of fair market value.

Under rule 3(d), if a property generates income that is effectively regulated by law and the

regulatory agency uses historical cost or historical cost less depreciation as a rate base, the actual

historical amount invested in the property or the amount invested less the amount of depreciation

(i.e., investment amortization or recapture) allowed by the regulatory agency may be a valid

indicator of value.

This approach is referred to in the rule as the "historical cost approach." This

variation of the cost approach is frequently applied to investor-owned, regulated public utilities

assessed by the Board's Valuation Division, and to private water companies regulated by the

California Public Utilities Commission and assessed by county assessors.

METHODS OF ESTIMATING COST

Under rule 6, there are two primary methods of estimating reproduction cost: (1) using trended,

or factored, historical cost; and (2) applying current prices to the components of cost.

Replacement cost may be estimated using method (2) above. Selection of a cost estimating

method may depend on the type of property, the use of the appraisal, or the appraiser's knowledge

of construction.

Trended Historical, or Original, Cost Method

In this method, which can be used to estimate reproduction cost, the appraiser obtains the

historical, or original, cost of the property, verifying that it represents the full economic cost of

reproduction. The appraiser then factors this historical cost to the date of the appraisal using a

price index. The result is an estimate of current reproduction cost. The greater the time interval

between original construction and the appraisal, the less reliable this method becomes because of

the difficulty of measuring cost changes over long periods. If the historical cost is actually the

Rate base is the dollar amount established by a regulatory agency upon which a return is allowed.

With respect to state assessed properties, see Unitary Valuation Methods, (revised March 2000), and regarding

private water companies, see Assessors' Handbook Section 542, Assessment of Water Companies and Water Rights,

Part I.

AH 501 January 2002 79

full economic cost, and the index accurately measures the change in cost over time, then the

factored cost is a reliable estimate of the current cost of reproducing the existing property.

However, frequently the appraiser does not know whether the historical cost represents full

economic cost, and all price indices only approximately measure the change in cost over time.

Despite these limitations, factored historical cost may be useful to the appraiser, particularly in

dealing with unusual types of construction. Historical cost can also be used at the time of

construction as a direct estimate of reproduction cost as of that date. In this case, obviously, no

factoring or indexing is necessary.

Applying Current Prices to the Components of Property Cost

In this method, which can be used to estimate either reproduction or replacement cost, the

appraiser applies current prices to a property's labor and material components, with appropriate

additions for contractor's overhead and profit, construction financing costs, other indirect costs

typically incurred in bringing the property to a finished state, and entrepreneurial profit (if

applicable). This method typically involves the following submethods: quantity survey; unit-in-

place; and square foot costs.

Quantity Survey Method. The quantity survey method is the most comprehensive and accurate

form of cost estimating. It also requires the most time and detailed construction knowledge to

complete. Under the quantity survey method, all necessary materials and labor for the project are

identified and priced. The total material and labor costs are combined to indicate the direct cost

of the building. All of the required indirect costs are then added to this total to derive a total cost

estimate of the improvement. Although highly accurate, this is generally too time consuming for

regular use by assessors.

Unit-in-Place Method. The unit-in-place method is a condensed version of the quantity survey

method. Under the unit-in-place method, total costs of installing a common unit of construction

are applied to the number of units in the project. The units of measure may be different

depending on the construction component involved, such as square yards for floor covering or

lineal feet for baseboard. The unit is not limited to measurements but can also be a count, such as

number of plumbing fixtures or number of doors. Usually there will be several costs for each unit

of construction with the difference accounting for variations of quality or complexity of

installation. All unit costs are totaled to provide the total estimated direct costs for the entire

improvement. Indirect costs are then added to arrive at an estimate of the full economic cost of

the property.

Square Foot Method. The square foot method combines all of the construction costs into one

unit of measure—price per square foot—that is applied to the square footage of the subject

property. Cubic feet are also used as a unit of measure for industrial buildings, which may have

large variations in ceiling height. It is important that the building from which the costs are

derived be similar in size, intended use, construction type, and quality as the subject being

valued. Any indirect costs not included in the square-foot cost factor must be added in order to

arrive at an estimate of the full economic cost of the property.

AH 501 January 2002 80

The square-foot cost tables published in Assessors' Handbook Section 531 (AH 531), Residential

Building Costs, are constructed and arranged to be used with the Assessors' Standard

Classification System. This is a system of tabulating and arranging known costs according to

physical variations in buildings that cause cost differentials. The following characteristics are

considered in this arrangement:

• Design type

• Construction type

• Quality class

• Area class

• Shape class

Basic building costs are estimated by classifying buildings according to these five characteristics

and using this classification as a reference to a table for a square-foot cost to be applied to the

building area. The use of the Standard Classification System is explained in detail in the AH 531.

SOURCES OF COST DATA

Building costs are constantly changing. Therefore, the collection and classification of cost

information is a continuing process for appraisers. The typical sources of property cost

information are published property cost tables, building contractors, manufacturer's catalogs and

price lists, and costs of comparable new construction. All of these sources should be considered.

The appraiser should verify which costs are included in the data and which costs may need to be

added.

DEPRECIATION

The most difficult aspect of the cost approach is the estimation of depreciation.

Depreciation in

an appraisal sense is defined as a loss of value from any cause. Depreciation is the total measure

of the reduced value experienced by a property compared to a hypothetical new and similar

property that has not suffered any loss in value. Depreciation estimates are best verified by sales

and income analyses.

The accountant's approach to and calculation of depreciation is quite different from the

appraiser's. For accounting purposes, the rate of depreciation is established when the asset is new,

based on a preselected life for the asset that determines the periodic depreciation charge. By the

end of its preselected life, the value of the asset has been depreciated to a salvage value (often

zero or a nominal amount). The capital amount at which the asset is shown on the accounting

records, its book value, is the asset's acquisition cost reduced by the amount of accumulated

depreciation charges against it. In this manner, the accountant attempts to match the cost of the

asset against future revenues. By contrast, for the appraiser, depreciation is the loss in value from

any cause. The appraiser attempts to estimate the remaining value of the property (compared to

its cost when new), as evidenced by the market as of the date of the appraisal. The property's

Depreciation, in an appraisal context, is sometimes referred to as accrued depreciation.

AH 501 January 2002 81

remaining value is likely to be different, either higher or lower, than the book value indicated by

the accounting records. Also, for some properties, the appraiser will recognize that the economic

life of a particular asset is tied to the remaining economic life of the entire appraisal unit.

Depreciation is a decrease in utility. The decrease in utility occurs in two different ways. First,

and probably most important, the remaining economic life of a property may decline. Instead of

yielding benefits for ten years, for example as when new, a property may now have only eight

years of remaining service. Second, there may be a reduction in net benefits from the property.

Either fewer benefits are provided, or the same benefits are provided at a higher cost. Thus, a

decline in the remaining life or the efficiency of property causes depreciation.

There are three generally recognized sources of depreciation: physical deterioration, functional

obsolescence, and external obsolescence.

Physical Deterioration

Virtually all properties deteriorate as they age, lowering their utility and reducing their value.

This is known as physical deterioration and may be the result of wear and tear either from use or

from the forces of nature. Peeling of paint, wearing out of water heaters, termite infestation, worn

machine parts, metal fatigue, and water damage are all illustrations of physical deterioration.

Good maintenance slows the process of physical deterioration while lack of maintenance hastens

it.

Most physical deterioration can be corrected. However, the relationship between the cost

involved and the economic benefit derived determines whether it is economically feasible to

correct or repair physical deterioration. An element of physical deterioration is considered

curable when the cost to correct the deficiency is less than the economic benefit resulting

therefrom. When the cost to correct the deficiency is greater than the resulting economic benefit,

the element of physical deterioration is considered incurable.

Physical factors have not, in general, been the major determinant of the economic life of

properties in California. Typically, the life of properties has been ended by obsolescence

(discussed below) and not by physical deterioration. With proper maintenance, properties have a

slow rate of physical deterioration and can last, physically, for a very long period of time.

Functional Obsolescence

Functional obsolescence is the loss of value in a property caused by the design of the property

itself. When the capacity of a property to perform the function for which it was intended declines,

functional obsolescence begins. Functional obsolescence may be less tangible or visible than

physical deterioration, but it may be more significant. Functional obsolescence may be

attributable to changes of taste in the marketplace, changes in building construction techniques,

or to poor initial design. An element of functional obsolescence is considered curable when the

cost to correct the deficiency is less than the economic benefit resulting therefrom. When the cost

External obsolescence is also referred to as economic obsolescence.

AH 501 January 2002 82

to correct the deficiency is greater than the resulting economic benefit, the element of functional

obsolescence is considered incurable.

Most structures experience some functional obsolescence with the passage of time. As

improvements become older, they may go out of style. Functional obsolescence due to changes in

consumer tastes and building techniques occurs in most structures as they age. In addition, some

structures suffer a loss in value because of poor design not related to the passage of time. Cases

of inadequacy, superadequacy, and poor functional plans may create functional obsolescence

even in relatively new structures. Examples of poor design in residential property include

inadequate room size, lack of closet space, and an insufficient number of bathrooms. In addition,

a few buildings incorporate outmoded exteriors and architecture at the time of construction.

Changing technology may also create functional obsolescence for personal property. Older

machines, and sometimes even newer machines or entire lines of equipment, may be made

obsolete by new technologies and manufacturing processes. Management may choose to continue

operating the existing equipment. However, even though the equipment is still in use, its market

value may be reduced because of functional obsolescence.

External Obsolescence

Adverse factors that are external to the property being appraised cause external obsolescence and

a loss in value. These external factors usually affect more than one property in the area and

cannot be controlled by an individual property owner. External obsolescence may be caused by

environmental factors, illustrated by industrial encroachment on a residential neighborhood, or

by the shifting of the economic base of employment away from a community. Losses in value

attributable to external obsolescence are usually beyond the power of any single property owner

to influence and cannot be cured by making changes to the subject improvement. This type of

depreciation affects both real and tangible personal property, but not all properties experience

external obsolescence during their economic lives.

External obsolescence can be identified by studying the overall market conditions for a property.

For example, if the output of a machine is superseded in the marketplace by output of a different

material (e.g., fiberglass for metal or plastic for wood), and the market no longer absorbs the

superseded output, then the machinery has suffered external obsolescence.

A property may suffer from one or more of the three forms of depreciation at a given time. Under

certain circumstances, the source of the decrease in utility may be difficult to classify. For

example, the loss in value sustained by a residential overimprovement contains elements of both

external and functional obsolescence. It is important to remember that classification of the forms

of depreciation is only an aid to the appraiser. Identifying the type of depreciation helps in

recognizing and considering depreciation in all its forms, but is not an end in itself. The

appraiser's goal is to determine the total loss in value attributable to all forms of depreciation.

AH 501 January 2002 83

MEASUREMENT OF ACCRUED DEPRECIATION

There are several methods of estimating depreciation, and an appraiser will often use more than

one method when determining the total depreciation from all causes. Discussed below are: (1) the

straight-line or age-life method; (2) the sales data or market method; and (3) the breakdown

method.

Straight-Line or Age-Life Method

The straight-line or age-life method is a measurement for determining the effective age of an

improvement (or personal property) and is based on the relationship between the physical age of

an improvement and its estimated economic life. In the case of real property, the economic life of

an improvement is the period of time during which the improvement contributes to the total

value of the real property. This is usually less than the physical life of the improvement.

In this method, depreciation is estimated by dividing the effective age of the improvement by its

estimated economic life. Effective age is the "age indicated by the condition and utility of a

structure."

Because there may be a large variation in the condition of improvements having the

same age, the effective age is the best indicator of the market's perception of age for the

improvement.

Sales Data or Market Method

When adequate sales data are available, the sales data, or market, method is the most direct and

preferred method of measuring depreciation. This measurement of depreciation is taken from the

actions of buyers and sellers in the market. In this method, in the case of real property, the

appraiser analyzes a number of sales of improved properties and subtracts the estimated land

value for each sale from the selling price. The remainder is the building's contribution to the sale

price, which is then compared to the current cost of a new building. The difference is the total

depreciation. The total depreciation divided by the estimated cost new of the improvement gives

the depreciation in a percentage form. These points may then be plotted on a graph or analyzed

with a regression analysis program to create a depreciation curve. This method is also generally

applicable to business personal property.

Breakdown Method

The breakdown method is a comprehensive and detailed way to measure depreciation. The

breakdown method is used to measure all items of depreciation individually (i.e., physical,

functional, and external). In this method, total depreciation is determined by adding together all

the individual estimates of depreciation. Techniques used to calculate the different types of

depreciation in the breakdown method include the cost to cure technique and the capitalization of

rental loss technique, which are discussed below.

Appraisal Institute, The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, s.v. "effective age."

AH 501 January 2002 84

Cost to Cure Technique

This technique may be used to measure physical deterioration and curable functional

obsolescence. It requires the appraiser to estimate the cost to cure items of physical deterioration

and functional obsolescence that are in fact curable. However, the cost to cure technique cannot

measure incurable functional obsolescence or external obsolescence.

Capitalization of Rental Loss Technique

The capitalization of rental loss technique may be used to measure loss of value from any cause.

This technique is based on the premise that any loss in value of the property would also be

reflected by a loss in either the amount or duration of rental income (actual or imputed) to the

property. To use this technique, the appraiser must identify the actual cause of depreciation and

estimate the loss of rental income due to this cause of depreciation.

PERCENT GOOD

The complement of depreciation, when measured as a percentage, is percent good. For example,

if the total depreciation of an improvement is 20 percent, then the percent good is 80 percent. The

percent good concept is used in the appraisal process for two reasons: (1) it focuses the appraisal

on the benefits remaining or the economic life remaining in the property rather than the benefits

used; and (2) it saves one arithmetical operation when estimating depreciation. The percent good

concept is applicable to both real and personal property.

Percent Good Tables

In a mass appraisal program, depreciation estimates may be made using percent good tables.

Percent good tables are used for both real and personal property. These tables are based on data

for properties of different quality levels and use types. They have validity only to the extent that a

subject property has experienced the usual depreciation for its age, quality, and use type.

Any depreciation or percent good table should be used only as a guide in the estimation of value.

A percent good table may reflect more or less depreciation than the market indicates. Therefore,

wherever possible, the appraiser should verify replacement cost new less depreciation by other

approaches to value before accepting the table as the best indicator of value.

LIMITATIONS OF THE COST APPROACH

Like the other approaches to value, the cost approach is not valid unless it is made as of a

specific date. Changes in the purchasing power of money, efficiency of labor, techniques of

production, and other economic factors may cause costs to vary over time. It is essential to

specify that costs are as of a certain date in order for the principle of substitution to be

meaningful. The more current the costs, the more reliable and valid the cost approach is for

current market value appraisals.

Current costs are developed from data relating to the present and the recent past. As such, they

may reflect a temporary situation in which some contractors are not covering all overhead and

earning the required return on investment. This may occur in times of economic recession when

AH 501 January 2002 85

jobs are bid low in order to keep crews together, minimize fixed costs, and utilize on-hand

inventories. The converse may occur during an economic boom because of demand far in excess

of supply. Because these temporary imbalances eventually yield to a more normal long-range

situation, the appraiser should ensure that such short-run costs are used only if they are typical

and if construction activity is actually occurring.

In general, the newer the property, the more reliable the cost approach will be as an indicator of

value. When a property is a new and proper improvement, replacement, historical, and

reproduction costs will usually coincide. Depreciation in most new or almost new properties will

be minimal, and this decreases the significance of the most subjective portion of the cost

estimate. In such cases, the appraiser can attach a greater weight to the cost approach in the value

conclusion. However, the same may not be true for machinery and equipment that is subject to

rapid technological advancement. In this case, even relatively new items may be subject to

functional obsolescence.

COMPARATIVE SALES APPROACH

INTRODUCTION

The comparative sales approach may be defined as an approach that uses direct evidence of the

market's opinion of the value of a property. In this approach, the appraiser estimates the market

value of the subject property by comparing it to similar properties that have recently sold. In

addition to actual sales, the appraiser may consider listings, offers, options, and the opinions of

owners, real estate agents, and other appraisers as to the selling prices that comparable properties

might command. The comparative sales approach is based on the premise that the fair market

value of a property is closely and directly related to the sales prices (under the conditions of fair

market value) of comparable, competitive properties.

The comparative sales approach is not the only approach that utilizes market data. Construction

costs and income information are also market data. However, significant differences exist in the

nature of the market data in the cost and income approaches in contrast to the comparative sales

approach. Neither costs nor incomes are direct evidence of market value. Rational people would

consider cost and future income when buying or selling property in order to form their opinions

of market value. However, in the comparative sales approach, an indicated value is direct

evidence of the market's opinion of value, which gives this approach a certain preeminence.

Rule 4 states, in part:

When reliable market data are available with respect to a given real property, the

preferred method of valuation is by reference to sales prices.

The comparative sales approach is based upon the principle of substitution and presumes that the

market value of a property will approximate the sales prices, listings, offers, and appraisals of

competitive substitutes. With a perfect degree of substitution and purely competitive market

conditions, properties would have exactly the same value. No two real properties are ever

AH 501 January 2002 86

identical; all differ at least in location. However, reasonable substitutes may exist if relevant

economic characteristics are similar. Because bargaining is characteristic of most sales, even

perfect economic substitutes frequently sell for different amounts. This is the nature of the real

estate market.

The market value of real estate is more realistically described as a band or a range rather than as a

point. The appraiser is attempting to make an estimate that lies within that range. It is difficult, if

not impossible, to specify the exact limits of any range of market value, especially since the range

varies with different types of properties, locations, economic and market conditions, and other

factors. The possible range is smaller for a property in a homogeneous residential subdivision

than for a property in a heterogeneous commercial district. For example, a residential property

may have a market value ranging between $125,000 and $130,000; any appraisal that lies within

this range may be considered reasonable.

SALES DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

A sale price represents an agreement between two or more parties at a particular instant of time.

As provided by section 110 and rule 2, a sale price of real property (except a possessory interest),

as measured in cash or its equivalent, is rebuttably presumed to be the fair market value of the

property if the terms were negotiated under conditions reflecting an open market transaction.

(Under section 110(c), this rebuttable presumption does not apply where a taxpayer has failed to

provide certain information about the conditions of the transaction.) Accordingly, the

circumstances of each sale must be investigated before the sale price can be used as a value

indicator for the subject property. This applies to sales of both the subject and comparable

properties. For the sale to be an open market transaction, the following conditions must be

satisfied:

• Exposed for sale in the open market

• Both parties seeking to maximize their gains

• Neither party taking advantage of the exigencies of the other

• Reasonable time allowed to find a buyer

• Reasonable knowledge of the property's uses, present and prospective, by both buyer and

seller

• No collusion or "love and affection" between the parties

• Consideration in cash or its equivalent

Sales prices may not be indicative of market value. Consider the following examples: A seller

may sell hastily in order to raise money; a purchaser may be forced to buy an adjoining lot to

continue present operations; an uninformed buyer may pay a price in excess of the property's

market value; a purchaser may give the seller a second deed of trust as partial consideration, and

the cash equivalent value of such financing may differ substantially from its nominal value; or,

Cash equivalence is discussed in a later section.

AH 501 January 2002 87

finally, a property may transfer between relatives, and, due to "love and affection" or other

factors, the sale price may not represent market value.

If any of the open market conditions identified in the definition of fair market value is absent, the

presumption that the sale price represents fair market value may be rebutted. If it is established

that the property would not have sold for that price in an open market transaction, the property

should be assessed at its fair market value as estimated by using other value indicators.

Such a

sale is also not valid as an indicator of value for other properties, and it should not be used in the

comparative sales approach.

In collecting market data, some information may be incorrect or misleading; it is risky to rely on

only one or two sales in arriving at a value indicator. This risk can be minimized by acquiring

information from more than one principal and asking questions designed to check the consistency

of the data. In the selection of comparable sales data, the appraiser should not give preference to

the type of buyer or seller involved in a transaction. This applies, in particular, to the type of legal

entity involved. Sales involving private individuals, corporations, partnerships, financial

institutions, and governmental entities may all be used when estimating market value, provided

that the conditions of a market value transaction are met and the necessary adjustments (to

reflect comparability to the subject property) are made.

The real estate market functions with more regularity than a casual observation of sales might

indicate. A compilation of the unadjusted sales prices in a neighborhood may indicate a relatively

wide range of values. However, the range narrows considerably after sales are confirmed and

adjustments are made for the primary elements of comparison.

Area of Search

In selecting market data for analysis, an appraiser should focus on transactions pertinent to the

subject property's specific market. In general, comparable properties are those that compete with

the property being appraised or have a demonstrable effect on prices or other relevant

components of the market in question. The subject and comparable properties must have the

same highest and best use. The type of real estate being valued and the nature of its market will

define the geographic boundaries from which to draw comparable sales data. Neighborhood is a

very important factor in the single-family residential market, and the area to search for

comparable sales is generally limited to the subject's neighborhood and other similar

neighborhoods in close proximity. However, certain types of properties have regional, national,

and even international markets. The search for market data should include the same area in which

potential buyers would search for comparable substitutes.

Time Period for Sales

The desired time period for comparable sales depends on the sales activity in the market place. In

a rapidly changing market with frequent sales, the appraiser should look for comparable sales

within a few months of the appraisal date. If there is little sales activity and prices are stable, a

Dennis v. Santa Clara 215 Cal.App.3d 1019.

AH 501 January 200288

longer time span is appropriate. However, appraisers and assessment appeals boards cannot

consider sales of comparable properties more than 90 days after the date for which value is being

estimated. This limitation does not apply to sales of the subject property.

Number of Sales

The number of sales needed depends on the comparability of the sales to the subject property. If

the subject is a house in a subdivision of similar houses, then three or four sales of closely

comparable houses are usually sufficient. If closely comparable sales cannot be found, for

example, as with some industrial properties, then additional comparable sales will be needed. In

some cases, the appraiser may need to investigate a large number of sales just to find three or

four comparables.

Sources of Sales Data

County assessors generally have ample sales data within their offices, including a record of all

real property sales within the county. However, the amount of detail on each sale will vary. Other

sources are available to provide additional detail or information on transactions in other counties;

there are several private companies in California that provide real estate sales data. Multiple-

listing services also have comprehensive lists of sales transactions in their region and listings of

property currently offered for sale. Real estate brokers, other appraisers, and title companies are

other sources of sales data. In the absence of other comparable sales data, the appraiser may

consider multiple listings and other public listings of asking prices for properties in establishing a

range of value. It is important to note that listings should not be considered as direct evidence of

the final value estimate for real property.

Verification of Data

Verification of sales data is an important step in the comparative sales approach. Assessors have

an advantage in this area because the law requires property owners to report certain information

about real estate transactions to the assessor on forms signed under penalty of perjury. An

inspection of the property may be needed to determine physical condition, locational influences,

and visual appeal.

SALES DATA ADJUSTMENTS

The appraiser considers all differences between the subject and comparable properties that could

affect their respective market values, then adjusts the sales prices of comparable properties for

these differences in order to arrive at an indicator of value for the subject. Adjustments are made

to the comparable property, not the subject property. The adjustments reflect aspects of the

transaction or characteristics of the property that have affected sales prices and are referred to as

elements of comparison. Sales data adjustments may be made to either the total sale price or to an

appropriate unit of comparison (discussed below), and adjustments can be made on the basis of

either a percentage or a dollar amount. The common elements of comparison are:

Rule 324(d).

AH 501 January 2002 89

1. An adjustment for rights and interests conveyed

2. An adjustment of all non-cash components of the sale price to cash equivalence

3. An adjustment for the difference in market conditions between the date of the sale and the

valuation date of the subject property

4. Adjustments for differences in location and physical and economic characteristics between

the subject and comparable properties

5. An adjustment for differences in highest and best use

6. An adjustment for non-real property components of the sale, such as tangible personal

property (e.g., equipment and furnishings) and non-taxable intangible assets and rights

The first four of these adjustments are described in rule 4. Although physical comparability is

often a primary concern when choosing comparable sales, adjustments for the other elements of

comparison are also highly important. Adjustments to the sale price of the comparable property

should be made in the same order in which the elements of comparison are listed above.

The degree of comparability between a comparable sale and the subject property determines

which adjustments are necessary and the size of the adjustments. Typically, adjustments for each

characteristic are made as dollar amounts or as percentages. The appraiser adjusts the sales prices

of the comparables upward or downward in order to make them comparable to the subject

property. Adjustments may be measured using a variety of quantitative and qualitative

techniques.

Adjustment for Rights and Interests Conveyed

The property tax appraiser must appraise the rights legally associated with the subject property.

Since, for most properties, the full bundle of rights is normal, appraisers assume that no unusual

rights or restrictions exist. This facilitates the appraisal process and will normally result in a

correct value for the property being appraised. However, where enforceable legal restrictions or

other enhancements or encumbrances apply to the subject or comparable properties, care must be

taken to identify and adjust for these items. For instance, where the subject property has water

rights to an adjacent lake, comparable properties should, where possible, also have similar rights.

In the vast majority of cases, the property tax appraiser must appraise the unencumbered fee

simple interest.

To be used as a comparable property, the sale price must either reflect the full

fee simple interest or be adjusted to reflect the full fee simple interest. This adjustment is

frequently required with income producing properties, which are often sold subject to leases. If a

property is encumbered with a long term lease that is either above or below the current market

rent, an adjustment for property rights conveyed is required. The appraiser must determine

See Assessors' Handbook Section 502, Advanced Appraisal.

Exceptions to this have been previously noted.

AH 501 January 2002 90

whether the contract rent for the property is different from the current market rent and adjust the

selling price if necessary.

Adjustment for Cash Equivalence

Section 110 defines fair market value in terms of "cash or its equivalent." In using sales prices of

the subject or comparable properties for the purpose of valuation, rule 4 provides that the

appraiser shall adjust purchase prices to reflect amounts equivalent to cash. A cash equivalent

adjustment may be required for sales involving: (1) assumed loans or new loans (i.e., promissory

notes) that reflect non-market, or atypical, financing terms; (2) seller-paid loan points paid to a

third party (e.g., an institutional lender) as part of the buyer's financing; and (3) any other

tangible or intangible property other than cash that the seller accepted as full or partial

consideration for the property.

The necessity for a non-market financing adjustment will depend upon the interest rate of the

new or assumed promissory note. If the note's stated interest rate is not equal to the market rate of

interest for similar notes at the time of the sale (i.e., similar in other terms and risk), an

adjustment for financing terms is necessary. If the note's stated interest rate is lower than the

market rate at the time of sale, it is presumed that the seller compensated for the lower rate by

increasing the sale price of the property, in which case the value of the note should be discounted

(i.e., reduced) to its cash equivalent amount in order to estimate the market value of the property.

If the note's stated interest rate is higher than the market rate, it is reasonable to assume that the

seller compensated by reducing the sale price, in which case the note's value exceeds its nominal,

or face, value requiring an upward cash equivalent adjustment in order to estimate the market

value of the property.

The interest rate required to attract a knowledgeable third-party lender for a particular property is

a rate that reflects the current market interest rate. Normally, capital is furnished at competitive

market rates by commercial lending institutions. However, there are situations in which

commercial loans are neither in demand nor available. In these circumstances, alternative third-

party financing terms should be considered. There are two primary means available to measure

the amount of the cash equivalent adjustment: (1) by using direct market evidence, that is, by

comparing sales with non-market financing to sales with market financing; and (2) by using

mathematical procedures to discount the contractual loan payments at the current market interest

rate.

Another required cash equivalent adjustment is the cost a seller may incur to obtain third party

financing for the buyer. This cost, referred to in the real estate industry as "seller's points,"

typically arises because government-supported financing has a limit on the interest rate that may

be charged by the lender. When market interest rates at the time of the sale are above those

allowed, and funds are provided by a private lender, the seller may pay points to compensate for

See rule 4(b)(2) and Chapter 3 under "Importance of the Fee Simple Concept in Property Tax Appraisal."

The techniques for computing cash equivalent adjustments are varied. Further discussion is not presented here

since the subject is covered extensively in Assessors' Handbook Section 503, Cash Equivalent Analysis.

AH 501 January 2002 91

this difference.

Points may also arise when the seller "buys down" a loan in order for the buyer

to qualify for the loan. In such cases, the seller is actually receiving less than the nominal selling

price for the property by the amount of the points, and an adjustment to the sale price in the

amount of points paid by the seller is required.

Other non-cash items accepted by the seller as part or all of the consideration for the property

must also be converted to cash equivalence. For example, a seller may accept $10,000 in cash

and an automobile for a parcel of real estate. If the appraiser intends to use the selling price as

evidence of value, the value of the automobile in terms of money (i.e., its cash equivalence) must

be estimated.

All cash equivalent adjustments require adjusting any non-cash tangible or intangible property

included in the transaction into the equivalent of cash to the seller. The appraiser is not

concerned with the buyer's obligations to outside parties. Thus, if a buyer makes a cash down

payment and borrows the balance of the purchase price from a third party, it is still a cash sale

from the seller's standpoint, because the seller receives the full purchase price in cash.

There are many other expenses that might be incurred by the seller as part of a transaction. In the

case of real property, in addition to the example of seller's points discussed above, these include

real estate commissions, escrow fees, and recording fees. However, in terms of cash equivalence,

these expenses are not valid adjustments from the total amount the seller receives in exchange for

his or her property. They are payments for services rendered, not for the real property transferred.

The fact that the seller pays for these services does not make the payments deductible expenses

from the sale price of the property. Property will sell for the same general price whether or not

these expenses are incurred by the seller.

Selling prices adjusted to cash equivalence are value indicators; they do not necessarily represent

fair market value. The reliability of value indicators must be resolved by the appraiser in the

reconciliation step of the appraisal process when other value indicators are considered and the

final value estimate is made.

Adjustment for Market Conditions

The market conditions adjustment is probably the most complex single sales data adjustment.

Comparable sales occurring under different market conditions may require adjustment so that

they reflect the same market conditions as the property being appraised.

Market conditions may change rapidly or remain static for long periods of time. Market

conditions change due to shifts in demand and supply and/or inflationary or deflationary

economic forces. Demand and supply for a particular property, or for all properties of its type,

may change over time, and as a consequence, the market value of the property may rise or fall.

The purchasing power of the dollar may also fluctuate. During inflationary periods purchasing

power decreases, with the result that, other factors remaining constant, additional dollars are

required to purchase the same property. The reverse occurs during deflationary periods.

A point is one percent of the loan amount.

AH 501 January 2002 92

Although the adjustment for market conditions is also referred to as the "time" adjustment, the

need for the adjustment is not caused by the simple passage of time. Economic variables

affecting demand and supply that have shifted and/or inflationary or deflationary forces in the

economy are the causes for this adjustment.

Market condition adjustments can be estimated and measured on the basis of sales data in two

primary ways: (1) by measuring the difference in sales prices when the same property sells more

than once over a period of time and no significant change in the property has occurred between

sales; and (2) by measuring the difference in sales prices for separate but very similar properties

that sell at different times. The validity of any adjustment is based primarily on the strength of

the supporting data. Because different types of property may be subject to different economic

forces, the market conditions adjustment should be measured using sales of the same

property type as the property being appraised. Because of the complexity of this adjustment, it

should be used with care. As a general rule, it is preferable to use comparable sales occurring

near the valuation date of the subject property, thereby avoiding the need for this adjustment.

Adjustments for Location and Physical and Economic Characteristics

If the locational, physical, and economic characteristics of the subject property and

the comparable properties differ significantly, each of these characteristics requires comparison

and adjustment.

An adjustment for location is required if the locational characteristics of a comparable

property are significantly different from those of the property being appraised.

Although

individuals may have varying preferences regarding locational differences, the market as a

whole often shows consistent patterns. Within a homogeneous neighborhood, locational

differences may only be the difference between a typical lot and a lot near the park or on a

cul-de-sac. However, as the geographic range of comparable sales broadens, the

adjustment usually becomes more significant. Physical characteristics include such

attributes as building size, quality, age, and condition; size of the site; and site amenities

(e.g., view). Economic characteristics are those attributes of a property that affect its

income-producing ability. This element of comparison is usually applied in the appraisal

of income-producing properties. Related to economic characteristics, the appraiser

should also consider differences in zoning and other enforceable restrictions.

The degree of comparability between a sale and the subject property determines which

adjustments are necessary and the size of the adjustments. Typically, adjustments for

each characteristic are made as dollar amounts or as percentages. The appraiser adjusts the sales

prices of the comparables upward or downward in order to make them comparable to the

subject property. Adjustments may be measured using a variety of quantitative and

qualitative techniques.

Locational and physical characteristics of real property were discussed in Chapter 4 under "Nature of Real Estate

Productivity."

See Assessors' Handbook Section 502, Advanced Appraisal.

AH 501 January 2002 93

Adjustment for Non-Real Property Components of Value Included in the Purchase

Non-real property components of value include stocks, bonds, tangible personal property,

copyrights, patents, trade names, etc. With the exception of tangible personal property, the other

items listed are intangible personal property. The sales prices of the subject property and

comparable properties must be adjusted to exclude the value of these items. That is, when the

purchase price in terms of cash or its equivalent includes non-real property items in addition to

the real property purchased, the value of these items (on a cash equivalent basis) must be

removed from the sale price in order to arrive at an indicator of real property value. Furniture,

fixtures, and equipment included in the purchase of a hotel or restaurant are typical examples of

tangible personal property that might be included in a purchase of real property.

UNITS OF COMPARISON

Units of comparison are the components into which a property may be divided in order to make

comparisons. They are used to compare the subject and comparable properties. The appraiser

computes like units for comparison by stating each sale price in terms of appropriate units of

comparison. The appropriate unit depends on the type of property being appraised. For example,

apartments are typically compared based on sale price per apartment unit; commercial properties

based on sale price per square foot; industrial properties based on sale price per square or cubic

foot; hotels and motels based on sale price per guest room; etc. In the case of single-family

residences, the unit of comparison is typically the entire property. Units of comparison should be

selected based on what is typically used by buyers and sellers in the market for the type of

property being appraised. All applicable units of comparison should be considered, and any wide

variations in the results should be analyzed.

Sales data adjustments for elements of comparison can be made to either the total sale price or to

the appropriate unit(s) of comparison. Typically, adjustments for the rights and interests

conveyed, cash equivalence, and market conditions (and perhaps also non-real property items)

are made to the total sale price. Units of comparison are then calculated based on the adjusted

sale price. The unit of comparison is then adjusted for differences in location and physical and

economic characteristics.

CORRELATION WITHIN THE COMPARATIVE SALES APPROACH

Analysis of the comparable sales will result in separate value indicators for the subject property

based on the data from each comparable sale. Typically, the indicators will indicate a range of

value for the subject property. These estimates should not be averaged to reach a single indicator

of value. Rather, the adjustments made to each comparable should be evaluated and the greatest

weight given to the sales that are closest in comparability to the subject.

VALUE ALLOCATION

The comparative sales approach produces a total property appraisal of an improved property; that

is, the appraisal of the land and improvements as a single unit. Since property tax law requires

separate assessments for land and improvements, the appraiser must allocate the total property

value between these components. While this allocation could technically be accomplished by

AH 501 January 2002 94

either making the land value or the improvement value residual to the other component, in

practice the land value is estimated and subtracted from the total value to derive the value

attributable to the improvements. Land is not generally subject to depreciation, and its value may

be estimated by direct comparison with sold properties, a technique seldom applicable to

improvements alone.

LIMITATIONS OF THE COMPARATIVE SALES APPROACH

The comparative sales approach is very reliable in an active market in which there are numerous

recent sales of comparable properties. It is the preferred approach when reliable market data is

available.

However, two primary factors limit the usefulness of this approach. First, certain types of

property are infrequently sold, with the result that there may be insufficient market evidence to

derive a valid indicator by direct comparison. Where few comparable sales exist, or the

comparable properties are not close substitutes for the subject, it is difficult to make

comparisons. An appraiser using the comparative sales approach under these circumstances is

forced to make many subjective adjustments to the market data. Second, the conditions of each

comparable sale must be carefully investigated before it can be used as an indicator of value.

Many sales do not meet the conditions of an open market transaction and are not good indicators

of market value. In spite of these limitations, comparative sales are usually a more accurate index

of market value than any other available evidence.

STOCK AND DEBT APPROACH

The stock and debt approach is a variation on the comparative sales approach. It is included in

rule 3 as an acceptable approach to value. This approach is based on the fundamental accounting

equation stating that the value of a corporation or other business organization's assets equals the

value of its liabilities plus its net worth.

The stock and debt approach relies on values for an organization's liabilities and net worth (i.e.,

the values of its debt and equity interests) as established in the capital markets; it thus relies on

the value of fractional interests in the company. To use the approach, the securities of the

company whose taxable property is being appraised must be publicly traded. The current market

value of the company's stock (equity) is added to the current market value of its liabilities (debt).

Using the fundamental accounting equation, the sum of these amounts equals the total value of

all corporate assets as valued in the capital market. This approach values all of the assets of the

corporation, taxable and nontaxable. Therefore, the appraiser must make adjustments for the

value of any nontaxable assets. These adjustments should be based on the value the capital

market places on the nontaxable assets.

The stock and debt approach has several limitations:

1. It cannot be applied to companies that have little or no public trading of their securities.

2. The adjustments for nontaxable assets may be difficult to make.

AH 501 January 2002 95

3. Typical stock prices do not effectively measure the advantages of ownership and control

that are inseparable in non-corporate or closely-held corporate property. This is often

evidenced by the fact that the purchase of enough stock to gain control of the corporation

is typically made at a price above the stock's market price.

4. Stock and debt securities are generally highly liquid in contrast to the physical assets

against which they represent claims. The aggregate value of the stock and debt securities

may include a liquidity premium above the value of the physical assets.

Despite these limitations, the stock and debt approach has some validity because it is based on

the valuation of a corporation's assets by market participants.

INCOME APPROACH

INTRODUCTION

The income approach to value includes any method of converting an income stream into a

present value estimate (i.e., an indicator of current fair market value). The income approach is

also called the capitalization approach because capitalization is the process of converting an

expected income into an indicator of value. In addition to the following discussion, see Chapter 4

of Assessors' Handbook Section 504, Advanced Appraisal, for information on advanced issues in

the income approach.

The methods or techniques used in the income approach may be relatively simple (e.g., income

or rent multipliers and direct capitalization), or more complex (e.g., various yield capitalization

techniques). All of these methods are referred to as capitalization techniques because they

convert an expected future income stream into a present value estimate.

The income approach requires careful application because small variations in its key variables

(capitalization rate, duration of income stream, estimated income and expenses, etc.) will be

mathematically leveraged into a wide range of estimated value. This is particularly true for the

capitalization rate variable. The accuracy of the income approach is no greater than the validity of

the assumptions used to estimate the key variables. The mathematical techniques used in the

approach, while sometimes complicated, are merely tools for converting these assumptions into

an estimate of current market value.

APPLYING THE INCOME APPROACH FOR PROPERTY TAX PURPOSES

Rule 8 prescribes the conditions under which the income approach may be applied. Subdivision

(a) specifies that:

The income approach to value is used in conjunction with other approaches when

the property under appraisal is typically purchased in anticipation of a money

income and either has an established income stream or can be attributed a real or

hypothetical income stream by comparison with other properties. It is the

preferred approach for the appraisal of land when reliable sales data for

AH 501 January 2002 96

comparable properties are not available. It is the preferred approach for the

appraisal of improved real properties and personal properties when reliable sales

data are not available and the cost approaches are unreliable because the

reproducible property has suffered considerable physical depreciation, functional

obsolescence or economic obsolescence, is a substantial over- or

underimprovement, is misplaced, or is subject to legal restrictions on income that

are unrelated to cost.

Subdivision (b) states that in using the income approach, "an appraiser values an income property

by computing the present worth of a future income stream."

Subdivision (c) establishes that the amount to be capitalized is the net return that a reasonably

well informed owner and reasonably well informed buyers may anticipate that the taxable

property existing on the valuation date will yield, considering prudent management and subject to

such legally enforceable restrictions as such persons may foresee as of that date. It states, in part:

Net return, in this context, is the difference between gross return and gross outgo.

Gross return means any money or money's worth which the property will yield

over and above vacancy and collection losses, including ordinary income, return

of capital, and the total proceeds from sales of all or part of the property. Gross

outgo means any outlay of money or money's worth, including current expenses

and capital expenditures (or annual allowances therefor) required to develop and

maintain the estimated income. Gross outgo does not include amortization,

depreciation, or depletion charges, debt retirement, interest on funds invested in

the property, or rents and royalties payable by the assessee for use of the property.

Property taxes, corporation net income taxes, and corporation franchise taxes

measured by net income are also excluded from gross outgo.

Subdivision (d) states that in "valuing property encumbered by a lease, the net income to be

capitalized is the amount the property would yield were it not so encumbered, whether this

amount exceeds or falls short of the contract rent and whether the lessor or the lessee has agreed

to pay the property tax." Thus, the estimate of economic rent for income-producing property must

be made without regard to actual lease arrangements that may exist, including rent levels and

property tax payment considerations, since the valuation objective is the market value of the

unencumbered and unrestricted fee simple interest.

Subdivision (e) recommends using income from property rental rather than from business

operation, since income derived from business operation is more likely to be influenced by

managerial skills and may arise in part from nontaxable property or other sources. If income from

business operation must be considered, sufficient income must be excluded to provide a return to

working capital, any other nontaxable intangible assets and rights, and unpaid or underpaid

management.

AH 501 January 2002 97

Subdivision (f) requires the inclusion of a property tax component, where applicable, equal to the

estimated future ad valorem portion of the tax rate for the area times the assessment ratio, in the

capitalization rate for all property tax appraisals.

Subdivision (g) provides the following two methods of developing a capitalization rate for

property tax appraisals: (1) by comparing the net incomes that could reasonably have been

anticipated from recently sold comparable properties with their sales prices adjusted, if

necessary, to cash equivalents (the market-derived rate); or (2) by deriving a weighted average of

the capitalization rates for debt and for equity capital appropriate to the California money

markets (the band-of-investment method) and adding increments for expenses that are excluded

from outgo because they are based on the value being sought or the income being capitalized. In

the former, the appraiser determines the ratio of net income to adjusted selling prices of

comparable sales to develop a range of yield or overall rates. Subdivision (g)(1) states that this

method is preferred when the required sales prices and incomes are available. In the latter, the

appraiser derives a weighted average of current rates for debt and equity capital (subject to the

inclusion of a property tax component).

Subdivision (h) provides that income may be capitalized by the use of gross income, gross rent,

or gross production multipliers (derived by comparing sales prices of closely comparable

properties with their gross income, gross rent, or gross production).

Finally, subdivision (i) excludes open space land defined in section 421 from the provisions of

rule 8 and also states that not all provisions of rule 8 apply to taxable possessory interests.

ASSUMPTIONS OF THE INCOME APPROACH

The validity of using the income approach depends upon whether the subject property meets the

following three assumptions: (1) value is a function of income (i.e., the property is purchased for

the income it will produce); (2) value depends upon the quality and quantity of the income stream

(i.e., the investor demands a return of and on his or her investment in the property with

consideration of the property's risk); and (3) future income is less valuable than present income

(i.e., the value of the property is the sum of the present worth of its anticipated future net

benefits). If the circumstances of the subject property do not meet these three assumptions, the

income approach should not be given great weight as an indicator of the property's current market

value.

Value is a Function of Income

A basic assumption of the income approach is that property is purchased for the income that it

will produce. It follows that a property's value depends upon the income that it will produce. This

assumption has general acceptability in the appraisal of most commercial, industrial, and

multiple-residential properties since the owners of these properties frequently are not the users. It

Under a triple net lease, the tenant assumes all expenses of operating the property, including property taxes. If the

income to be capitalized is income estimated under a triple net lease, it is not necessary to add a property tax

component to the capitalization rate.

AH 501 January 2002 98

is plausible, for example, that the owner of a retail property owns it for the rental income

received and that a potential purchaser would buy it for the expected future rental income. This is

an important assumption, and in cases in which it does not correspond with the facts, the income

approach may not apply.

In order to use the income approach, the benefits a property will provide over time must be

expressed in terms of money. Benefits expressed in money are most often found in commercial,

industrial, and multiple-residential properties, since these are typically developed and purchased

for the income they provide and are frequently leased to tenants in competitive markets. Single-

family residential properties may also be leased, but they are often developed and purchased to

provide their owners with amenity benefits rather than monetary benefits. Consequently, it is

often difficult to apply the income approach to single-family residences.

If the income approach is used to value property that provides both monetary and amenity

benefits, care should be exercised in converting amenity benefits into value. If the capitalization

rate reflects the amenity benefit, a question arises whether the amount of the amenity benefit

reflected in the rate equals the amenity benefit in the subject property. For example, a farm may

be both a production unit returning monetary benefits and a living unit returning amenity

benefits. Because the appraiser is often unable to impute an income to the amenities from the

living unit, the capitalization rate is derived from market data that is based only upon the income

derived from the farm as a production unit. The capitalization rate will consequently be lower

than it would have been had it been possible to impute an income to the amenities and sum the

income from both benefits (i.e., monetary and amenity) to obtain a more accurate measure of the

true monetary return. Capitalization rates that include both monetary and amenity elements

should be used for properties that have amenities similar to those of the properties from which

the respective rates were derived.

Rents are, in effect, sales prices for short-term rights to use property. Appraisers apply these

short-term sales prices in the income approach to obtain value indicators, which are estimates of

the present worth of the sum of all these expected future short-term sales prices. The sum may

involve short-term sales prices for a terminating period or in perpetuity.

It is generally preferable that the income to be capitalized be the income from the taxable

property to be appraised. For example, a retail store operated by the property owner involves at

least two activities. One is the ownership of the real and tangible personal property, and the other

is the business of selling merchandise at the property. It is necessary to determine what portion of

the operation's expected future earnings is attributable to the ownership of the taxable property. If

the earnings of the business (after deductions for operating expenses) are capitalized into an

indicator of value, the appraiser should be aware that the indicator may contain the value of

nontaxable intangible assets and rights. The value of such assets and rights must not be reflected

in the value of the taxable property. However, taxable property may be assessed and valued by

AH 501 January 2002 99

assuming the presence of intangible assets or rights necessary to put the taxable property to

beneficial and productive use.

Value is Determined by the Duration of Income and Its Risk

The income approach assumes that the investor in real property will estimate the duration of the

income stream and its risk, or likelihood of receipt, when selecting a capitalization rate to value

the property.

For land, the estimated duration of the income stream is usually in perpetuity, but improvements

have limited lives. The estimate of the remaining economic life of an improvement (that period

of time over which the property will earn a net income above the rent imputable to the land

alone) is an important consideration in the income approach. Average life tables have been

developed as general guides to estimating remaining economic life. However, a careful study of

the structural soundness of the improvements, the degree of functional obsolescence, and the

economic and social trends in the neighborhood and community should serve as the primary

basis for this estimate.

The risk of an income stream refers to its certainty, that is, how likely it is that the investor will

receive it. The greater the uncertainty of the income, the higher the capitalization rate at which

the income should be capitalized. Not all investments are subject to the same level of risk, with

the result that not all income streams should be capitalized at the same rate.

Investors demand both a return of their investment (a recapture of the investment) and a return

on their investment (a yield on the investment). The yield rate contains components for (1) time

preference, (2) liquidity preference, (3) risk, and (4) investment management.

1. Time preference is the return investors demand for forgoing present consumption. Time

preference reflects the pure time value of money. The minimum, or "risk free," rate is the

lowest yield rate that would be acceptable if instant cash liquidity were available, there

were no risk of loss, and no management effort were required. The risk-free rate is

represented by the return on United States government securities, which contain no default

risk and little requirement for investment management. Time preference also includes an

allowance for anticipated inflation.

2. Liquidity preference means that investors would rather have assets that are readily

convertible into cash at face value. To give up this feature may mean waiting a significant

period to sell an asset, or having to sell it at a discount to realize cash quickly.

3. Risk refers to the uncertainty involved with any projection into the future. Investors may

commit their capital to relatively secure investments such as United States Treasury

securities or passbook savings accounts. When they instead invest in speculative ventures,

In using the income approach, the appraiser should use the estimated economic, or market, rent attributable to the

taxable property, if possible, to estimate the value of the taxable property. Using the estimated economic rent for the

taxable property assures that the value, if any, of intangible assets and rights is not reflected in the value of the

taxable property.

AH 501 January 2002 100

they demand to be compensated for the element of uncertainty associated with these

investments.

4. Investment Management is that component of the yield rate that compensates the investor

for personal efforts involved in making decisions between alternative investments. It is not

compensation for the day-to-day management efforts involved in real property.

Future Income is Less Valuable Than Present Income

The third assumption of the income approach is that future income is less valuable than present

income. The concept of present value, essential to an understanding of the income approach,

provides that the sum of the present worth of the future income payments is always less than the

undiscounted sum of these future payments.

This concept is one of the most important in valuation. Because investors prefer immediate

returns over future returns, they "discount" future returns, or reduce their value, when analyzing

investments. Because of the pure time value of money, this is true even if no risk is involved. A

rational investor would not pay $1,000 today for the certain right to receive $1,000 one year

hence, because he or she could earn interest on the $1,000 during the year, with the result that the

total value would accumulate (at the risk-free rate of interest) to an amount greater than $1,000 at

the end of the year. To the rational investor, a certain payment of $1,000 a year from today is

worth something less than $1,000 today, with the amount of the discount determined by the risk-

free rate of interest.

The present value is the amount which, when compounded periodically (usually annually) at a

given rate, will accumulate to the future amount. For example, $1,000 due one year from today

has a present value of $909.09 if the annual interest rate is 10 percent ($909.09 x 1.10 = $1,000).

A series of payments made at equal intervals is known as an annuity. The present value of an

annuity is the sum of the separate periodic incomes, discounted to their respective present

worths. Factors used to convert annuities into value may be obtained from compound interest

tables, personal computers, or financial calculators.

The process of discounting a series of

annuity payments, or any future payment or payments, in order to obtain the present value of this

income, is the basic theoretical underpinning of income capitalization.

CONVERSION OF INCOME INTO VALUE

The key component variables of income capitalization include: (1) the income to be capitalized;

(2) the capitalization rate or factor used to convert the income into a value indicator; and (3) the

time period over which the income is to be realized. The capitalization rate or factor must

provide for both the return of the portion of the investment that declines in value (the investment

amortization or recapture) and for the return on the investment (the yield). The means of

investment recapture selected by the appraiser, as reflected in the capitalization method chosen,

should reflect the expectations of buyers and sellers.

Assessors' Handbook Section 505, Capitalization Formulas and Tables, contains annuity factors.

AH 501 January 2002 101

In its simplest form, the capitalization process may be represented by the equation V = I/R,

where V is the indicated present value of the income stream, I is the income to be capitalized,

and R is the capitalization rate. If the time during which the income is to be realized is less than

perpetuity, a recapture component must be included in R. If any two elements of this equation are

known, the third can be found. For example, I = RV and R = I/V. In other words, if the income

and the value of a property are known, as is the case with a comparable sale, a capitalization rate

can be derived.

When capitalizing equal payment annuities of limited duration or deferred income payments, the

appraiser may use annuity tables to process the future income into its present value. The factors

in these tables account for the terminating nature of the income stream and hence also for

recapture. The factor, F, is a ratio between value and annual net income, F = V/I. Since the

component for recapture is included in the annuity factor, the rate used in conjunction with the

tables need not reflect a recapture component. In this case, the basic capitalization formula

becomes V = IF rather than V = I/R, and capitalization becomes a matter of multiplication

rather than division. The basic formula V = IF also applies when using income multiplier

analysis; all income multipliers are also factors.

The proper capitalization formula or method to use is a function of the shape of the income

stream and should reflect the perceptions and actions of market participants. The appraiser must

know the basic capitalization equations and understand the relationship between the variables in

these equations before proceeding to the mechanics of the process. While specific applications

may differ because of variations in the nature of the income stream or the composition of the

capitalization rate, the basic principles of capitalization remain constant.

Direct capitalization is a method that converts a single year's income estimate into a value

indicator in one step, either by dividing the income estimate by a capitalization rate or

multiplying it by an income factor. In direct capitalization, no allocation is made between the

return on and the return of the investment. This method does not explicitly specify investor

assumptions regarding the return of and the return on the investment, the duration or pattern

income, or changes in the value of the investment. Rather, these assumptions are implicit in the

rates or income factors used, which are derived from sales of properties comparable to the

property being valued. The following sections discuss the derivation of an overall capitalization

rate from comparable sales and valuing a subject property using direct capitalization with an

overall rate.

Income multiplier analysis is closely related to direct capitalization. A single year's gross income

may be converted to an indicator of value by multiplying it by an income multiplier derived from

the sales of comparable properties. This method is mathematically related to direct capitalization

since a capitalization rate is the reciprocal of an income multiplier or factor (although an income

multiplier is generally based on a gross level of income, while an overall capitalization rate is

based on a net level of income). The following sections contain discussions of deriving a gross

AH 501 January 2002 102

income multiplier from comparable sales and valuing a subject property using a gross income

multiplier.

Yield capitalization is a method that converts a series of future benefits into an estimate of

present value by discounting each future benefit at a selected yield rate. In yield capitalization,

the appraiser: (1) estimates a holding period for the investment; (2) forecasts the expected future

income during the holding period; (3) selects a yield, or discount, rate; and (4) converts future

benefits into an estimate of present value by discounting each periodic income over the holding

period.

The periodic income streams may be discounted to present value using annuity tables,

which contain annuity factors. Discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis is a widely used "modern"

form of yield capitalization. Yield capitalization is discussed more thoroughly in Chapter 4 of the

Assessors' Handbook Section 502, Advanced Appraisal.

Again, the method of capitalization utilized must reflect the assumptions and actions of the

investors who make up the market for the property being appraised. The method must fit the size,

shape, and duration of the subject property's income stream. These are matters that must be

determined from an analysis of the market, comparable properties, and the property being

appraised. The crucial difference between the various methods of capitalization is the manner in

which the investment is recaptured.

CAPITALIZATION RATES AND MULTIPLIERS

A capitalization rate is any rate used for conversion of income into value. In the appraisal of

property for assessment purposes, future income is discounted to present value at a rate that

reflects the pure time value of money (including an allowance for anticipated inflation); liquidity

preference; risk; investment management; investment recapture; and, if applicable, a component

for property taxes. The capitalization rate is based on a hoped for or anticipated rate of return on

and of the investment. It is the rate required to attract capital to the investment.

Direct market evidence is the preferred source for obtaining capitalization rates. Actual selling

prices (adjusted to cash equivalence) of comparable properties can be related to their anticipated

incomes. The income used in rate derivation must be the investor's anticipated income, because

the decision to invest in property is directly related to its anticipated return.

As previously stated, one variation of the basic capitalization equation is R = I/V. When V (the

sale price of the property when deriving a rate) and I (the income attributable to the property) are

known, the derivation of R (the capitalization rate) is a simple mathematical computation. The

type of rate derived will vary according to the level of income processed. When valuing property

Some appraisers consider income multiplier analysis to be a part of the comparative sales approach rather than the

income approach. The significant consideration is whether the method provides a good indicator of market value for

the property being appraised, not how the method is categorized.

Yield capitalization can also be performed by developing an overall capitalization rate which reflects the estimated

income pattern, duration, value change in the investment, and yield rate. However, microcomputer applications that

allow a period by period approach to income analysis and discounting (i.e., a discounted cash flow approach) have

made such techniques less popular.

AH 501 January 2002 103

the rate must be applied to the same level of income from which it was derived. (However, this

general principle is complicated somewhat by the treatment of property taxes, which is discussed

below.)

The income multiplier is another useful tool of the income approach and is simpler to apply than

some forms of capitalization. All multipliers are factors and follow the second variation of the

basic capitalization formula, V = IF. Gross income multipliers are derived by dividing the

adjusted sales prices of comparable properties by their anticipated annual gross incomes. The

appraiser then multiplies the estimated income by the indicated multiplier to arrive at a value

indicator for the subject property, applying the multiplier to the same level of income from which

it was derived. The rationale of income multiplier analysis is that both the sale price or value and

the gross income of an income property are subject to the same market influences and

presumably move in the same direction in response to market forces.

Overall capitalization rates and income multipliers must be derived from sales that are

comparable to the subject property. The requirements for comparability include similar types of

property (same use, remaining lives, condition, and land-to-improvement ratios), similar income

streams, availability of similar new financing for the subject, similar market of potential

purchasers, similar terms of sale, and similar market conditions prevailing at time of sale.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE INCOME STREAM

Components of the Income Stream

When investors purchase property for its future income, they anticipate that the future income

from the property will satisfy several different functions. Therefore, the income stream can be

separated into several components: (1) a component to provide for all property related expenses,

including vacancy and collection losses, maintenance and repair, and utilities; (2) a component to

provide for the payment of the property taxes on the property; (3) a component to allow for the

return of the investment (investment recapture); and (4) a component to allow for a return on the

investment (investment yield), even if this return on or yield is not realized until the property is

resold.

Shape of the Income Stream

An income stream is a flow of income over time. The income stream used to derive income

multipliers or capitalization rates, or used to value a property, can be represented by the income

from one year or over several years. An income stream can be of one pattern or shape, or a

combination of several shapes: It can remain constant (level); it can increase or decrease; it can

terminate at a certain point in time; or it can continue into perpetuity. In the derivation of income

multipliers and capitalization rates from comparable sales, and in the use of multipliers and rates

to value properties, the appraiser should be aware of the pattern or shape of the income stream

expected by market participants. There are five primary income patterns to which appraisal

models are applied:

AH 501 January 2002 104

1. Constant Perpetual. A series of equal, annual incomes that flow into perpetuity. In theory,

land is a non-wasting asset and is considered to be capable of producing a constant

perpetual income.

2. Constant Terminal. A series of equal, annual incomes that terminate at some point in the

future. Terminating income streams are normally associated with wasting assets

(improvements).

3. Straight Line Declining Terminal. A series of annual net incomes that decline in equal

amounts over a period of time until the income terminates.

4. Variable Income. A series of annual incomes that fluctuate in various amounts from year

to year. In some cases the income may be a negative amount.

5. Single Income Payment (Reversion). A lump sum payment that will be received at some

point in time in the future.

PROCESSING THE INCOME STREAM

When the income approach is used, the appraiser processes the income to a level from which an

income multiplier or capitalization rate can be derived, or to a level from which the income is

capitalized into an estimate of value. "Processing" the income means subtracting out amounts of

income from the total, or gross income, that a property is expected to produce. The amount of

income subtracted depends on whether the appraiser is: (1) deriving a capitalization rate; or (2)

capitalizing an income stream into an estimate of value using a capitalization rate. In addition,

the type of income for extracting multipliers or rates from a property sale is different from the

type of income used to value a property. These differences are addressed in the following

sections.

DERIVING INCOME MULTIPLIERS AND OVERALL CAPITALIZATION RATES FROM

COMPARABLE SALES

When deriving income multipliers or capitalization rates, the appraiser must use anticipated

income, that is, income anticipated by the buyer in a particular transaction.

When deriving a

gross income multiplier, the income is processed only to the level of anticipated potential gross

income. When deriving an overall capitalization rate, the income is processed to the level of net

income before recapture. These levels of income are summarized below:

The approaches to value described in this manual are generally appropriate for properties that are operating at

stabilized occupancy and operation. Stabilized occupancy occurs when there are no transitory abnormalities of

supply and demand and existing market conditions are expected to continue over the economic life of the property

(Appraisal Institute, The Appraisal of Real Estate, 342). If the property being appraised is not operating at such a

level, further refinements may be required. See Assessors' Handbook Section 502, Advanced Appraisal.

AH 501 January 2002 105

Anticipated Potential Gross Income (APGI)

(minus)

Anticipated Vacancy and Collection Losses

equals

Anticipated Effective Gross Income (AEGI)

(minus)

Anticipated Operating Expenses

equals

Anticipated Net Income Before Recapture and Property Taxes (ANIBR&T)

(minus)

Anticipated Property Taxes

equals

Anticipated Net Income Before Recapture (ANIBR)

Deriving a Gross Income Multiplier

The investor's anticipated potential gross income (APGI) can be used to derive a gross income

multiplier (GIM) by dividing the sale price, adjusted for cash equivalency, by the anticipated

potential gross income. The basic formula for a gross income multiplier (GIM) is:

GIM

APGI

where

GIM = the gross income multiplier, market-derived;

SP = the cash equivalent selling price of a comparable property; and

APGI = the anticipated potential gross income of comparable sale property (note:

this may differ from its actual current income).

When appraising smaller residential properties, appraisers commonly speak of gross rent

multipliers. A gross income multiplier is more useful for larger apartment projects and some

commercial properties, since these types of properties frequently return income from sources

other than basic building rent (e.g., income from parking, laundry facilities, or storage areas).

Deriving Overall Capitalization Rates from Comparable Sales

Subtracting the anticipated expenses, including the anticipated property taxes, from the

anticipated effective gross income produces the anticipated net income before recapture

(ANIBR). The anticipated net income before recapture divided by the sale price, adjusted for

cash equivalency, produces a market-derived overall rate (OAR). The basic formula for deriving

an OAR is:

OAR

ANIBR

AH 501 January 2002 106

where

OAR = the overall capitalization rate, market-derived;

ANIBR = the anticipated net income before recapture of comparable sale property

(note: this may differ from its actual current income); and

SP = the cash equivalent selling price of a comparable property.

ALUING PROPERTY USING INCOME MULTIPLIERS AND OVERALL CAPITALIZATION

RATES

After the required sales and income data have been collected, analyzed, and processed to derive

income multipliers and capitalization rates from comparable properties, the derived multipliers

and rates are used with the correct level of income to find an indicator of value of the subject

property.

When valuing property, the appraiser does not apply the individual buyer's anticipated income

and expenses as were used in deriving rates. Instead, economic, or "market," estimates of

projected income and expenses are used, that is, a level of income and expenses that would be

projected by a typical purchaser of the subject property. The appraiser estimates the economic

rent for the subject property using economic rents from comparable properties. Allowable

expenses that a typical buyer would project are estimated based on the operating characteristics

of the subject property. The reasonableness of the appraiser's projections can be checked using

prevailing market rents and expenses for comparable properties under standard terms or

conditions.

Ad valorem property taxes (property taxes based on property value) are not deducted as an

expense when valuing property since this would presume that the value of property being

appraised is already known. Instead, a property tax component is added to the overall

capitalization rate. Because of the level of income involved, no adjustment for property taxes is

required to the gross income multiplier.

When valuing property using a gross income multiplier, the income stream is processed to the

level of economic potential gross income. When valuing property using an overall capitalization

rate, the income stream is processed to the level of economic net income before recapture and

property taxes. The steps in processing the income stream in order to estimate the value of the

property being appraised are as follows:

AH 501 January 2002 107

Economic Potential Gross Income (EPGI)

(minus)

Economic Vacancy and Collection Losses

equals

Economic Effective Gross Income (EEGI)

(minus)

Economic Operating Expenses

equals

Economic Net Income Before Recapture and Property Taxes (ENIBR&T)

Valuing Property Using a Gross Income Multiplier

The general formula for valuing property using a gross income multiplier is to multiply the

estimated economic potential gross income (EPGI) by a gross income multiplier derived from the

sales of comparable properties. Thus:

V = GIM × EPGI

where

V = indicated market value of the subject property;

GIM = gross income multiplier selected from multipliers derived from

comparable properties; and

EPGI = economic potential gross income of the subject property.

Example: Valuing Property Using A Gross Income Multiplier

Assume the following data:

GIM The gross income multiplier derived from comparable properties is 6.25;

EPGI The estimated economic level of potential gross income for the subject

property is $80,000.

The indicated market value is:

V = GIM × EPGI = 6.25× $80,000 = $500,000.

Valuing Property Using an Overall Capitalization Rate

The general formula for valuing property using an overall capitalization rate is to divide the

estimated economic, or market, net income before recapture (ENIBR) by an overall rate obtained

from the sales of comparable properties. However, since property taxes cannot be deducted as an

expense in arriving at the income to be capitalized, the property tax appraiser capitalizes the

economic net income before recapture and property taxes (ENIBR&T), using a capitalization rate

that is the sum of the overall rate derived from comparable sales and the estimated ad valorem

property tax rate. Thus:

AH 501 January 2002 108

ENIBR& T

OAR ETR

where

V = indicated market value of the subject property;

ENIBR&T = the economic net income before recapture and property taxes of the

subject property;

OAR = the overall capitalization rate; and

ETR = the estimated ad valorem property tax rate.

Example: Direct Capitalization Using an Overall Rate

Assume the following:

ENIBR&T the economic net income before recapture and property taxes of the

subject property is $25,000

OAR the overall capitalization rate selected from OARs derived from

comparable sales is 0.095 (or 9.5%)

ETR the estimated ad valorem property tax rate is 0.011 (or 1.1%)

The indicated market value using direct capitalization by an overall rate is:

NIBR&T

OAR ETR

$25,000

0.095 0.011

$25,000

0.106

$235,849 round to $235,500=

= = .

RESIDUAL TECHNIQUES: OVERVIEW

Residual techniques of income capitalization allow an appraiser to capitalize the income

allocated to an investment component of unknown value once all investment components of

known value have been satisfied. Residual techniques can be applied to the physical components

of a property (land and improvements) or to the financial components (debt and equity).

When using residual techniques, the appraiser: (1) applies an appropriate capitalization rate

("appropriate" in terms of the risk and return expectations of market participants) to the value of

the known property component to determine the amount of income needed to support the

investment in that component; (2) deducts this amount from the total economic, or market, net

income before recapture and property taxes (ENIBR&T) of the subject property to derive the

residual income available to the unknown component; (3) capitalizes the residual income into an

estimate of value of the unknown component using an appropriate capitalization rate for that

component; and (4) obtains a value indicator for the total property by summing the value of the

known component with the estimated value of the unknown component.

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Familiarization with the building and land residual techniques discussed briefly below is

recommended. These techniques may be used when the required data are available.

Building Residual Technique

The building residual technique is used when the value of the land is known but the value of the

improvements is unknown. After processing the estimated economic income of the subject

property to the level of ENIBR&T, the income imputable to the land (the land value multiplied

by the land capitalization rate) is deducted. The residual income is attributable to the building (or

improvements) and may be converted to an estimate of improvement value by capitalizing it

using a building capitalization rate.

The capitalization rate for the land, which assumes a constant perpetual income stream, is a

combination of a yield rate and an effective tax rate. The capitalization rate for the building

(improvement) is a combination of a yield rate, a recapture rate for the return of the investment in

the wasting improvement, and the effective property tax rate.

Land Residual Technique

The land residual technique is used when the value of the building (improvements) is known but

the value of the land is unknown. The income attributable to the building (the building value

multiplied by the building capitalization rate) is deducted from the estimated ENIBR&T of the

subject property. The residual income is attributable to the land and may be converted into an

estimate of land value using a land capitalization rate.

The land residual technique allows the appraiser to estimate land values when comparable land

sales data are not available. The technique can also be used to estimate the highest and best use

of both vacant and improved sites by hypothecating potential highest and best uses and

comparing the resulting indicators of land values.

LIMITATIONS OF THE INCOME APPROACH

As discussed at the outset, the income approach to value is based on the three premises that: (1)

investors purchase property for its anticipated income; (2) investors estimate the duration and

quality (i.e., risk) of this income; and (3) future income is less valuable than present income. If

the facts regarding the property being appraised do not correspond to these premises, the income

approach should not be used. If the property meets the premises of the income approach, and if

income and expense forecasts, remaining economic life estimates, and capitalization rates are

accurate and supported by market data, the approach produces a supportable indicator of market

value.

RECONCILIATION OF VALUE INDICATORS AND THE FINAL VALUE ESTIMATE

In the appraisal process, typically more than one approach to value is applied, leading to separate

indicators of value. In addition, several value indicators may also be derived from within a single

approach. In the comparative sales approach, for example, each sale produces a separate indicator

AH 501 January 2002 110

of value. Multiple value indicators within a single approach, however, are generally resolved

within that approach.

The final analytical step in the appraisal process is to reconcile value indicators from the separate

approaches utilized into a final estimate of value. Resolving the differences among the value

indicators is called reconciliation. The result of reconciliation is the final value estimate.

In the reconciliation process, consideration should be given to factors influencing value that are

either not reflected or only partially reflected in the indicators. One should not make a simple

arithmetic average of the several indicators. The greatest weight should be given to that approach

or combination of approaches that best measures the type of benefits the subject property yields.

The reconciliation step should involve an analysis of: (1) the relative appropriateness of the

approaches applied; (2) the accuracy of the data collected and calculations made in each

approach; (3) the quantity of data available for each approach; and (4) the consistency in the

manner in which the approaches to value were applied.

The cost estimate should be reviewed for the reliability of the depreciation estimate and whether

it is supported by market data. If the sales comparison approach was used, a check should be

made to determine whether the indicator relies heavily upon only one sale (a situation that is

extremely undesirable). In reviewing the income approach, the appraiser should reexamine the

estimates of economic rent, economic life, expenses, and capitalization rate, and alternative

estimates should be considered. The appraiser should consider whether estimates are consistently

optimistic or pessimistic.

Although containing an element of judgment, the analysis of value indicators should be based

upon indicators derived from objective data, plus general overall value influences (economic,

physical, political, and social factors). If a value indicator were perfect, it would already reflect

these value influences. However, in actual practice, a value indicator is usually far from perfect.

As indicated above, if the appraiser has adequate and reliable data, the greatest reliance should be

placed on that indicator which best measures the type of benefits the subject property is expected

to yield. These benefits may be in the form of amenities or money.

Some appraisers hold that the amount produced by the cost approach prior to the consideration of

depreciation (i.e. replacement cost new of improvements plus land value) reflects the upper limit

of value. Alternatively, other appraisers hold that the income approach consistently yields the

lowest indicator. Both of these conclusions are generally the result of conservatism, error, or

misapplication of the approaches. There is nothing inherent in any of the three primary

approaches that should result in a value consistently lower or higher than those derived by the

other approaches.

In the case of a change in ownership of real property other than a possessory interest, the purchase price of the

property is rebuttably presumed to be the fair market value of the property at the time of the change in ownership.

This presumption does not apply if the purchase price was not negotiated under the specified open-market

conditions. Furthermore, the presumption may be rebutted if a preponderance of evidence, as shown by other

indicators of value, demonstrates that the fair market value is significantly more or less than the purchase price.

AH 501 January 2002 111

CHAPTER 7: PERSONAL PROPERTY APPRAISAL PROGRAM

As discussed in Chapter 3, the California Constitution, article XIII, section 2 provides that the

taxation of tangible personal property is discretionary with the Legislature.

In the Revenue and

Taxation Code, the Legislature has broadly defined personal property in section 106 as follows:

"Personal property" includes all property except real estate.

In many respects, the same basic appraisal principles that apply to real property also apply to

personal property. The same definition of market value from section 110 applies to personal

property as well as real property. However, unlike real property, personal property is assessed at

market value every year; it is not governed by the value limitations under article XIII A of the

California Constitution (Proposition 13). Except for manufactured homes and floating homes,

there is no base year value for personal property and the appraisal date is always the lien date,

January 1.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PERSONAL PROPERTY AND REAL PROPERTY

Although taxed at the same maximum percentage of market value as real property, personal

property is treated differently in many other respects.

• Special assessments are levied on real property only.

• The Legislature has wide authority pursuant to article XIII, section 2, of the Constitution

concerning the taxation and/or exemption of personal property.

• Tangible personal property cannot be assessed to insurance companies, banks, and

financial corporations.

• Locally assessed real property is governed by article XIII A, while personal property is

appraised at market value annually.

• Unless otherwise provided by the Legislature, the tax on State and national banks shall be

according to or measured by the net income and shall be in lieu of all other taxes and

license fees upon banks or their shares, except taxes upon real property and vehicle

registration and license fees.

• There is no taxable possessory interest in personal property, except as provided for in

section 201.5.

• The tax rate on the unsecured roll is the rate of the prior year's secured roll.

The information covered in this chapter is only a brief summary of the appraisal issues regarding personal

property; for a thorough analysis, see Assessors' Handbook Section 504, Assessment of Personal Property and

Fixtures.

Section 27 of article XIII of the California Constitution.

California State Constitution, article XIII, section 12.

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SITUS

The determination of the tax situs of property is an essential factor of a valid assessment,

especially for personal property. Section 14, article XIII of the California Constitution clearly

states:

All property taxed by local government shall be assessed in the county, city, and

district in which it is situated.

Normally, the tax situs of personal property is considered to be the location of the property. Situs

is not a problem with property that remains in one location, but problems are encountered when

determining the situs of transitory or migratory property. Rules 203, 204, and 205 provide

direction on the situs of property in transit, movable property (e.g., contractor's equipment, boats,

general aircraft, and racehorses), and leased property. Under section 623, if a taxpayer owns

leased personal property situated at multiple locations in a county, the assessor may assess the

property at either each location or may place a single assessment of all the leased personal

property in the county at a single location.

A common situs question concerns leased property. According to rule 204, property leased on a

short term basis has situs where the lessor normally keeps the property. If property is leased for a

term of more than six months, the situs is determined on the basis of the lessee's use. There are

numerous special situations regarding situs that are beyond the scope of this manual. Chapter 3

of the Assessors' Handbook Section 504, Assessment of Personal Property and Fixtures contains

a comprehensive discussion of situs.

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Because historical cost information is a very important tool for mass appraisal, the law requires

most owners of business personal property to annually report the historical cost of equipment to

the assessor. The property statement is the declaration of assessable property, signed under

penalty of perjury, on which business personal property is reported (See Chapter 7, Assessors'

Handbook Section 504, Assessment of Personal Property and Fixtures.). Historical cost is used

as a starting point because it normally represents the value of the property when purchased new.

Additionally, it is a verifiable figure and lends itself to the mass appraisal process.

In addition to asking for costs of taxable personal property, the property statement requests a

variety of other information that is needed by the assessor for making annual reviews of property.

For example, although fixtures are classified as real property, they are treated as a separate

appraisal unit (i.e., separate from the land and improvements) for the purpose of comparing

adjusted base year value to fair market value. Since fixtures usually decline in value at

approximately the same rate as personal property, the property statement requests the same

information regarding fixtures as for personal property so the assessor can make the appropriate

calculations.

The requirements for filing a property statement are set forth in section 441, which states, in part:

AH 501 January 2002 113

Each person owning taxable personal property, other than a mobilehome subject

to Part 13 (commencing with section 5800), having an aggregate cost of one

hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) or more for any subsequent assessment year

shall file a signed property statement with the assessor. Every person owning

personal property that does not require the filing of a property statement or real

property shall, upon the request of the assessor, file a signed property statement.

Based on this statute, a person who has taxable personal property (other than a manufactured

home) in the county that cost $100,000 or more is required to file a property statement with the

assessor regardless of whether the assessor requests such a filing. Filing is also required if the

assessor requests the person to file a property statement. If a person is required to file a property

statement (because of either the $100,000 threshold or the assessor's request) and fails to do so,

under section 463 a penalty is applied to all the taxable personal property and fixtures that were

subject to the reporting requirement.

The term "property statement" has a special meaning for California property tax assessment. The

contents of all property statements are prescribed by the State Board of Equalization. Assessors

may make limited rearrangements of the property statement for purposes of their processing

needs, but the questions and instructions are uniform statewide. If an assessor needs different

kinds of information or additional information than is contained in the property statement, he or

she may request the taxpayer to provide such information but generally may not apply a penalty

for failure to do so.

Thus, in cases in which a person has less than $100,000 (at cost) of personal property, the

assessor may elect to request the person to file a property statement or may elect to obtain the

necessary information by some other means, such as a questionnaire or a physical inspection of

the property.

Escapes and double assessments ("errors") commonly occur due to misunderstandings regarding

situs, classification of property, reporting categories, etc. Such errors are especially likely to

occur when there are substantial changes to a commercial or industrial property such as new

construction, new tenants, or a change in ownership. For complex properties, standard property

statements (and change in ownership statements) rarely contain sufficient detail to ensure that all

taxable property is assessed and that no assets or portions of the property escape assessment.

When a change of ownership or other major change to a property occurs, the assessor needs to

take extra steps to ensure that the property is assessed correctly. In addition to field inspections,

discussions with the taxpayer, and internal coordination between real property appraisers and

auditor-appraisers, the assessor may ask the taxpayer to supply additional information to clarify

the necessary details. Most taxpayers are likely to cooperate since they want to avoid double

assessments and future escape assessments.

There is one notable exception: Assessors may request an aircraft owner to file a non-prescribed statement giving

the make, model, and year of manufacture of the aircraft and will apply a 10 percent penalty for failure to do so.

(Sections 5365 and 5367.)

AH 501 January 2002 114

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURES

To ensure correct reporting of information on the property statement, rule 172 provides complete

details of who is an authorized signatory for property statements. These include the assessee, a

partner, a duly appointed fiduciary, or an agent. If the assessee is a corporation, the property

statement must be signed by an officer, an employee, or an agent who has been designated in

writing by the board of directors to sign such statements on behalf of the corporation. If the

statement is signed by an agent or employee who is a member of the bar, a certified public

accountant, a public accountant, an enrolled agent, or duly appointed fiduciary, a written

authorization is not necessary.

TRADE LEVEL

As stated earlier, historical costs are normally used as a starting point for the appraisal of

personal property and fixtures. However, there are many situations where the owner's book costs

do not provide adequate information for making a fair market value appraisal, and, therefore, the

trade level principle must be applied.

Consistent with the definition of full cash value, property must be assessed at the proper level of

trade based on its location and use on the lien date. An appraiser must recognize that property

normally increases in value as it progresses through production and distribution channels, and to

the consumer, whether or not the cost or value added is booked.

The trade level concept is applicable when book cost does not provide adequate information for

making a fair market value appraisal. It is a cost component, which is most frequently applicable

to leased equipment and self-constructed equipment. Rule 10(a), Trade Level for Tangible

Personal Property, explains the concept of trade level and reads in part:

In appraising tangible personal property, the assessor shall give recognition to the

trade level at which the property is situated and to the principle that property

normally increases in value as it progresses through production and distribution

channels. Such property normally attains its maximum value as it reaches the

consumer level. Accordingly, tangible personal property shall be valued by

procedures that are consistent with the general policies set forth herein.

Under the provisions of the rule, personal property is assessed on the basis of how it is situated or

used on the lien date rather than at the book cost of the owner. In effect, the rule provides for

equal value for properties equally situated.

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This concept is more easily understood using the following example.

EXAMPLE X

FACTS:

• ABC Grading Company purchases a bulldozer for $250,000 and uses it to prepare land for

subdivision development.

• At the same time, Dozer Sales, a bulldozer dealer, purchases an identical bulldozer for $200,000

(dealer's cost) and rents it on a one-year lease to JKL Grading Company. JKL uses the

bulldozer to prepare land for subdivision development, in competition with ABC.

• Concurrently, the bulldozer manufacturer (GHI) provides an identical bulldozer to its

subsidiary, RST Grading Company (a competitor of ABC and JKL). The manufacturer's cost is

$150,000. RST uses the bulldozer to prepare land for subdivision development, in competition

with ABC and JKL.

Logically, the full economic cost for each piece of equipment should be the same. In each situation,

the bulldozer is used for the same purpose or at the same trade level. If no trade level adjustments

were made and the book costs were used as the sole basis for appraising, the assessments would not

be the same; they would be substantially different. The trade level principle, per Rule 10, requires the

assessor to estimate fair market value for the three machines and provide uniformity of assessment.

Based on the information above, Dozer and GHI's costs would require two different trade level

adjustments to arrive at the $250,000 (consumer level) value. Dozer's cost ($200,000) is a dealer cost

that would not include retail items such as sales tax and the dealer's profit margin. GHI's cost

($150,000) is the manufacturer's cost which does not yet include retail items missing from the dealer

cost, plus items such as profit margin normally added in when the manufacturer sells the product to

either the dealer or a retailer. In this case, the dealer cost is adjusted 125% ($250,000 / $200,000) and

the manufacturer's cost is adjusted 167% ($250,000 / $150,000) to arrive at the proper trade level.

As illustrated in Example X, the trade level concept requires adjustments based on what a

consumer at that level of consumption would pay. If another consumer of like property at that

level of trade would be subject to a cost (i.e., sales tax), the full economic cost should include

that cost component whether or not the cost was actually incurred. In Xerox Corporation v.

County of Orange, (1977) 66 Cal.App.3d 746,

the Court indicated that under the market value

concept, where price is the basis of value, the sales tax and freight charges are elements of value.

Consumer trade level includes sales tax, freight and installation charges and the property is

valued in accordance with the comparative sales, cost or income method. The courts have also

supported the trade level concept by allowing inclusion of a markup in value for interdivisional

transfers of manufactured goods for purposes of delivery or to facilitate marketing.

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Decision supported in appeal, County of San Diego v. Assessment Appeals BD. No. 2 (1983) 140 Cal.App.3d 52.

100

Beckman Instruments, Inc. v. County of Orange (1975) 53 Cal.App.3d 767.

TRADE LEVEL

AH 501 January 2002 116

Although rule 10 addresses the trade level principle for personal property specifically, the

principle of trade level also applies to fixtures such as machinery and equipment fixtures that are

normally assessed as a separate appraisal unit from the structure property. For this reason, the

business property statement contains directions on trade level and directs the taxpayer to make

trade level adjustments to book costs, when appropriate, for reporting any kind of property.

It is important to note that there are many circumstances where a property's historical cost is not

necessarily the proper starting point for a fair market value appraisal. While the trade level issue

most commonly arises in the case of personal property and fixtures, the appraiser should be alert

for other situations in which valid book costs do not reflect the appropriate level of trade for

property tax purposes.

TAXABILITY

Since the Legislature has the authority over the taxation of all tangible personal property,

including providing for its special treatment or exemption, this, combined with the exemptions

already in the Constitution, has led to special treatment or exemptions for a number of categories

of personal property. A few of the major exemptions are discussed below.

HOUSEHOLD FURNISHINGS

Section 224 provides for the exemption of personal effects, household furnishings, and pets

owned by any person. Rule 134 provides additional detail on this exemption.

BUSINESS INVENTORIES

Business inventories are exempt pursuant to section 219. Under rule 133(a)(1),

Business inventories… include all tangible personal property, whether raw

materials, work in process or finished goods, which will become a part of or are

themselves items of personalty held for sale or lease in the ordinary course of

business.

PERSONAL PROPERTY OWNED BY BANKS, INSURANCE COMPANIES, AND FINANCIAL

CORPORATIONS

The personal property of insurance companies is exempt from property taxation under the

California Constitution, article XIII, section 28. Instead, they pay an in lieu "income" tax based

on gross premiums. The exemption applies to all personal property owned by an insurance

company regardless of how the property is being used.

Banks and financial corporations are also exempt from personal property taxation pursuant to

section 23182.

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That tax, at a rate of 2% higher than the ordinary franchise tax applicable to

101

Pursuant to amendments made under Stats. 1999, Ch. 675 (SB 934) beginning in 2000 state-chartered credit

unions are exempt from paying the bank and corporate in-lieu franchise tax (section 23701y). State-chartered entities

AH 501 January 2002 117

corporations generally, is "in lieu of all other taxes and licenses, state, county and municipal,

upon the said banks and financial corporations except taxes upon their property,…" As such,

assessors should independently evaluate and determine, on a case by case basis, whether these

entities are shown on the "Confidential List of Banks and Financial Corporations" (in a CAO)

and are qualified by the Franchise Tax Board (Corporate Audit Section) as a bank or financial

corporation for assessment purposes. The personal property of those qualifying as financial

corporations are exempt from property tax. However, when a bank or financial corporation leases

property to another party, section 235 provides that, for property tax purposes, the lessee is

conclusively presumed to be the owner of the property. Accordingly, such property is taxable to

the lessee.

APPRAISAL METHODS FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY

AUDIT-APPRAISAL METHOD

The audit-appraisal method is based largely on data obtained from existing business records. On

a yearly basis the assessor obtains, through the property statement, historical cost information (or

costs adjusted for trade level, as discussed above) and other relevant data from the property

owner. The acquisition (or trade-leveled) costs are used as a starting point for the estimation of

market value. All costs necessary to place the equipment into service are to be included. These

include the purchase price of the equipment, sales or use tax, freight charges, installation and set-

up costs, machinery foundation costs, and trade level adjustments where applicable.

102

The historical (or trade-leveled) cost is adjusted to an estimate of current reproduction cost new

through the use of a price index or to replacement cost new through the use of current prices for

comparable equipment. Assessors' Handbook Section 581, Equipment Index and Percent Good

Factors (AH 581), is published annually and provides a number of equipment index tables for

commercial and industrial equipment. Current prices for replacement equipment are sometimes

available from commercial publications or from the property owner.

The cost new (reproduction or replacement) is then adjusted for depreciation (depreciation is the

loss of value from all causes). This is typically done through the use of percent good tables,

which are also contained in the AH 581. The use of tables is intended to estimate the value of

property under typical conditions.

It is possible for individual items or groups of items to suffer abnormal depreciation due to

excessive wear and tear, extraordinary functional obsolescence, and/or any form of external

obsolescence. On the other hand, sometimes equipment suffers less-than-typical depreciation due

to better-than-normal maintenance and other factors. Adjustments should be made whenever the

are 1) not subject to the bank and corporations in-lieu tax, 2) subject to real property tax, and 3) not subject to

personal property tax. Federally-chartered entities are 1) not subject to the bank and corporation in-lieu tax, 2)

subject to real property tax, and 3) subject to personal property tax.

102

Except personal property leased for a period of six months or less (rule 10(c)) and for certain liquefied petroleum

gas tanks as provided by rule 153.

AH 501 January 2002 118

standard depreciation tables do not accurately measure the actual loss of value of the equipment.

Using recent sales of comparable equipment, the appraiser may be able to make a direct estimate

of total depreciation from all causes.

PHYSICAL APPRAISAL METHOD

The physical appraisal method is used when accounting records are nonexistent or are inadequate

for appraisal purposes, or when there are other reasons to believe that an accurate appraisal

cannot be made by using the property statement or other available documents. Physical appraisal

may be necessary, for example, when a business has changed owners. Since the recorded costs

are just an arbitrary allocation of the total purchase price among such classifications as real

property, inventory, personal property, and goodwill, the allocated value may have only a

minimal relationship to market value.

The physical appraisal method requires viewing, listing, classifying, and describing property. The

auditor-appraiser evaluates the condition and quality of the equipment and then estimates the

replacement cost new and the depreciation to determine market value. This can be done with the

help of cost and value guides for equipment that is frequently bought and sold.

AUDIT PROGRAM

AUDIT OBJECTIVES

The appraisal of most personal property is based on information submitted by the taxpayer on the

property statement, as previously noted. In order for these appraisals to be reliable estimates of

value, it is vital that the reported information be accurate and complete.

Assessors are required by section 469 to regularly audit the books and records of certain

taxpayers. Pertaining to mandatory audits, this section states, in part:

In any case in which locally assessable trade fixtures and business tangible

personal property owned, claimed, possessed, or controlled by a taxpayer engaged

in a profession, trade, or business has a full value of four hundred thousand dollars

($400,000) or more, the assessor shall audit the books and records of that

profession, trade, or business at least once each four years.

Additionally, the assessor may audit the books and records of businesses below the mandatory

audit level.

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The purpose of an audit is to determine whether existing assessments (including previous years'

assessments within the statute of limitations) are correct or should be changed. A property tax

audit (per rule 191) is a means of collecting data relevant to the determination of taxability, situs,

and value of property. In order to make this determination, the auditor-appraiser collects data

relevant to the determination of taxability, situs, classification, and value of property. Generally,

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Revenue and Taxation Code sections 441(d) and 470; rule 192(e).

AH 501 January 2002 119

this involves determining the original acquisition date, historical cost, and location of the

property on the lien date. The audit is also an opportunity for the auditor to clarify correct

reporting procedures with the taxpayer.

104

STATUTORY PROVISIONS

The Legislature has provided the assessor with the statutory authority to review a taxpayer's

records for information required on the property statement in the event a taxpayer is not willing

to completely and/or accurately report the required information, or for any related purpose. This

authority to allow the assessor to review books and records is stated in section 441(d), as follows:

At any time as required by the assessor for assessment purposes, every person

shall make available for examination information or records regarding his or her

property or any other personal property located on premises he or she owns or

controls.

In regard to business records, section 470(a) similarly provides:

Upon request of an assessor, a person owning, claiming, possessing or controlling

property subject to local assessment shall make available at his or her principal

place of business, principal location or principal address in California or at a place

mutually agreeable to the assessor and the person, a true copy of business records

relevant to the amount, cost and value of all property that he or she owns, claims,

possesses, or controls within the county.

STATUTORY REQUIREMENT FOR REQUESTING INFORMATION ON UNREPORTED

PROPERTY

Under section 501, if the appraiser becomes aware of any unreported personal property, a written

notice requesting the information required on the property statement should be sent to the

owner/assessee. If no statement is filed by the owner/assessee within a reasonable time, the

appraiser shall estimate the value of the property, and on the basis of the estimate, shall promptly

assess the property and add a 25 percent penalty to any assessment made under section 502.

STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS FOR NOTIFYING TAXPAYER OF RESULTS

Upon completion of the audit, the assessor has the following obligation under section 469:

Upon completion of an audit of the taxpayer's books and records, the taxpayer

shall be given the assessor's findings in writing with respect to data that would

alter any previously enrolled assessment.

Rule 191 requires that the taxpayer be given an opportunity to respond orally or in writing to the

audit results, and any written comments become part of the audit report. If an audit reveals an

overassessment, section 469 provides:

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See Chapter 8, Assessors' Handbook Section 504, Assessment of Personal Property and Fixtures.

AH 501 January 2002 120

[T]he assessor shall notify the taxpayer of the amount of the excess valuation or

misclassification, and the fact that a claim for cancellation or refund may be filed

with the county as provided by sections 4986 and 5096.

In all cases, it is the auditor-appraiser's goal to determine the current market value of the taxable

property. The use of tables and value guides to estimate fair market value of equipment is

designed to expedite the mass appraisal process. However, these tools do not remove the need for

appraisal judgment or the requirement that the ultimate assessment reflect the fair market value

of the property on the appraisal date.

AH 501 January 2002 121

CHAPTER 8: SPECIAL TOPICS

APPRAISAL OF MANUFACTURED HOMES (MOBILEHOMES)

The taxation of manufactured homes, or mobilehomes, is addressed by Revenue and Taxation

Code section 5800 and following. Although manufactured homes are not subject to the

provisions of article XIII A of the California Constitution (Proposition 13), these statutes provide

for essentially similar treatment for these properties.

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The Health and Safety Code generally defines a manufactured home as a structure that is

transportable, is 8 or more feet in width, 40 or more feet in length, or—if erected on a site—320

or more square feet in area. Additionally, the structure must be built on a permanent chassis and

designed to be used as a dwelling unit.

CLASSIFICATION

Since the amendment made to section 5801(b)(2) by Chapter 796, Statutes of 1991, effective

January 1, 1992, the classification of manufactured homes is no longer an issue. The statute

simply provides that manufactured homes are classified as personal property, stating, in part:

Except as provided in paragraph (1), a manufactured home, otherwise subject to

taxation pursuant to this part, shall not be classified as real property for property

tax purposes that would be excluded from taxation pursuant to this part.

Only manufactured homes on permanent foundations pursuant to Health and Safety Code section

18551 are considered real property. Such homes are taxed as all other real property is taxed, are

not subject to section 5800, and are not classified as manufactured homes. Although classified as

personal property, most of the provisions relating to the taxation of personal property are not

applicable to the taxation of manufactured homes. The primary differences in the taxation of

manufactured homes from other personal property are:

1. Secured Roll. The assessment of a manufactured home is entered on the secured roll.

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2. Payment of Taxes. The taxes on manufactured homes may be paid in two installments.

107

3. Base Year Value. A base year value is determined for a manufactured home on the date it

changes ownership.

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4. Declines In Value. The taxable value of a manufactured home is the lesser of its factored

base year value on the lien date, taking into account reductions in value due to any factor

causing a decline in value (e.g., depreciation, damage, destruction, obsolescence, etc.).

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105

See Assessors' Handbook Section 511, Assessment of Manufactured Homes and Parks, for a detailed discussion.

106

Section 5830.

107

Section 5830(c).

108

Section 5802.

109

Section 5813.

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5. Supplemental Assessments. Manufactured homes that undergo a change in ownership or

new construction are subject to supplemental assessment.

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PERSONAL PROPERTY CHARACTERISTICS

The classification of a manufactured home as personal property rather than real property has

several consequences, as outlined below.

• Personal property held for sale or lease in the ordinary course of business is exempt from

taxation under the business inventory exemption (sections 129 and 219, and rule 133).

Thus, if on the lien date a manufactured home is held for sale or lease (i.e., is vacant and

not actually in use) by a person engaged in the business of selling or leasing such

properties, the property is exempt until it is sold, at which time a supplemental assessment

will be made to the new owner.

• Under the Soldiers and Sailors Civil Relief Act of 1940, military personnel on active duty

in California may declare their personal property's legal situs to be outside the state and,

therefore, the property is deemed to be tax exempt. The exemption does not apply to

military personnel who are legal residents of California.

• The Legislature has not provided for the creation of possessory interests in personal

property. Private uses of personal property owned by a governmental agency are not

taxable possessory interests except for pollution control equipment financed pursuant to

section 201.5.

• Personal property owned by banks, financial corporations, and insurance companies is

exempt from the property tax (article XIII, sections 27 and 28 of the California

Constitution). However, if a person leases or rents personal property from a bank or

financial corporation, for property tax purposes the lessee is "conclusively presumed" to be

the owner of that property (section 235).

Classification may also affect the amount of property tax levied since special assessments are not

levied on personal property.

TAXABILITY

Section 5801 provides that a manufactured home is taxable on the local property tax roll if:

1. Sold new on or after July 1, 1980; or

2. So requested by the owner.

Owners of other manufactured homes pay license fees to the Department of Housing and

Community Development.

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Section 75.5.

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SITE VALUE

It is important to recognize that the full cash value of a manufactured home does not include any

value attributable to a particular site. Section 5803 provides, in part:

"[F]ull cash value" [of a manufactured home] … does not include any value

attributable to the particular site where the manufactured home is located on

rented or leased land which would make the sale price of the manufactured home

at that location different from its price at some other location on rented or leased

land. In determining the "full cash value" of such a manufactured home on rented

or leased land, the assessor shall take into consideration, among other relevant

factors, sales prices listed in recognized value guides for manufactured homes,

including, but not limited to, the Kelly Blue Book Manufactured Housing and

Mobilehome Guide and the National Automobile Dealer Association's

Mobilehome Manufactured Housing Appraisal Guide.

The effect of site value on the purchase price of a manufactured home can be either positive or

negative. In situations where negative site values exist, it is the land, not the manufactured home,

that is entitled to a reduction in value. Such negatively impacted parks may not command the

same rent level as comparable parks not facing similar adverse conditions. As a result, the

manufactured home owners may pay reduced rents, but the market values of the manufactured

homes are not affected since the homes perform as constructed without any decrease in value.

ACCESSORIES

The statutory definition of manufactured home accessory includes both portable and permanently

installed items. Manufactured home accessories are defined in Health and Safety Code section

18008.5, which provides that accessories include, but are not limited to, awnings, storage

cabinets, carports, skirting, heaters, coolers, fences, windbreaks, and porches. Accessories may

be real or personal property but, unless they qualify as household furnishings within the context

of the law, they are generally subject to local property taxation, whether or not the manufactured

home to which they belong is subject to local property taxation. However, pursuant to section

5805, accessories installed on a rented or leased lot with a manufactured home first sold prior to

January 1, 1977, are presumed to be subject to the state vehicle license fee. This presumption

may be rebutted by evidence that the accessory was not included in the vehicle license fee base

for the manufactured home, or was not otherwise subject to the vehicle license fee.

Accessories on licensed manufactured homes sold after January 1, 1977, may be exempted by the

county board of supervisors, up to a maximum of $5,000, pursuant to the provisions of section

155.20.

APPRAISAL OF FLOATING HOMES

While vessels are generally regarded as personal property, "floating homes" have been accorded

special treatment by the Legislature and are treated as real property. Section 229 provides that

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floating homes shall be assessed and valued in the same manner as real property. A floating

home, under section 229(c), is defined as a structure that has all of the following characteristics:

1. It is designed and built to be used, or is modified to be used, as a stationary waterborne

residential dwelling.

2. It has no mode of power of its own.

3. It is dependent for utilities upon a continuous utility linkage to a power source originating

onshore.

4. It has a permanent continuous hookup to a shoreside sewage system.

The statute prescribes that a floating home is not to be assessed as a vessel, but is valued like

other real property under the provisions of article XIII A of the California Constitution

(Proposition 13).

APPRAISAL OF CONSTRUCTION IN PROGRESS

When real property, or a portion thereof, is being constructed, the assessor must determine the

fair market value of the portion of the property that is under construction at each lien date. When

the construction is complete, the assessor determines the fair market value of the newly

constructed property. The following is a brief discussion of this complex issue. For an expanded

discussion, see Chapter 6 of AH 502, Advanced Appraisal.

Construction in progress on the lien date is also subject to assessment and must be appraised.

Section 71 states, in part:

New construction in progress on the lien date shall be appraised at its full value on

such date and each lien date thereafter until the date of completion, at which time

the entire portion of property which is newly constructed shall be reappraised at

its full value.

This language is repeated in Property Tax Rule 463(d).

Determining the value of construction in progress sometimes presents a difficult appraisal

problem. The same methods and principles that apply when valuing completed improvements are

applicable to construction in progress. However, the procedure is usually more difficult due to a

lack of market data. The income and sales comparison approaches are of limited use because

property under construction is typically not producing any income, and it is difficult to find

comparable sales of partially completed projects. For this reason, the cost approach is nearly

always used. The cost approach is used to determine the amount of costs in place relative to the

partially completed project on the lien date. The total of costs in place on the lien date may be

higher or lower than the market value of the new construction in progress on the lien date.

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START DATE

The commencement of construction is the date when actual physical activity first occurs on the

site. For example, layout of foundations, erection of fencing, site grading, or other physical

activity at the site indicate the beginning of construction.

COMPLETION DATE

Since new construction in progress is appraised on each lien date until completed, identifying the

date of completion is important. Rule 463.5 defines the date of completion of new construction.

In general, the date of completion is the earliest of either the date that an improvement is

available for use, the date a certificate of occupancy is issued, or the date that it is occupied.

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Further aspects of the appraisal of construction in progress are addressed in Assessors' Handbook Section 502,

Advanced Appraisal.

AH 501 January 2002 126

APPENDIX A: ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGAL ASPECTS OF

PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT

OVERVIEW

PROPERTY TAX BASE

The property tax is a significant general revenue source for local agencies (i.e., counties, cities,

and special districts) and school districts. The tax is imposed on the owners of property and is

based on property value.

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Property tax liability is for a fiscal year, or a portion thereof, and

property taxes are collected by the county and distributed to local governmental jurisdictions

based on a statutory formula.

The property tax is imposed on two major categories of property: real property and tangible

personal property. Some of the major types of property that are not part of the property tax base

are most property owned by government; most private property used for religious, charitable, or

educational purposes; household personal property; automobiles and trucks; business inventories;

and intangible personal property.

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ASSESSMENT ROLL

"Assessment" means placing a value on property for the purpose of property taxation. An

assessment roll, as defined in section 109, is the entire listing of all taxable property within the

county, including that which is state assessed. Among other things it identifies the property, the

owner (if known), and the assessed value of the property. Each year the county assessor prepares

two separate rolls: the "regular assessment roll" (sometimes referred to as the "601 roll" because

it is discussed in section 601)

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and the "supplemental assessment roll."

Under section 109, the "secured roll" is that part of the roll containing state assessed property and

property on which the taxes are a lien. The remainder of the roll is the "unsecured roll." The

"local roll" lists those parts of the secured and unsecured roll containing all property that it is the

assessor's duty to assess. The "board roll" is that part of the secured roll containing state assessed

property.

Generally, all real property for which title is held by the owner or possessor is on the secured roll.

Personal property may also be on the secured roll if its owner also owns real property in the

county that can be used to secure the personal property tax liability. The unsecured roll consists

of taxable property owned by taxpayers who do not own real property in the county that can be

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However, since the 1978 passage of Proposition 13, discussed later, real property has generally been taxed based

on its market value at the time of acquisition or completed new construction, with annual increases for inflation

limited to a maximum of 2 percent per year, and not based on its current market value as of each tax year.

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The question of what property is taxable is addressed in Chapter 3.

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Unless otherwise indicated, all references to "code" in this appendix refer to the Revenue and Taxation Code; all

references to "section" or "sections" refer to sections of the Revenue and Taxation Code; and all references to "rule"

or "rules" refer to the Property Tax Rules found in Title 18 of the California Code of Regulations.

AH 501 January 2002 127

used to secure payment of the property tax. Most property on the unsecured roll is tangible

personal property used by businesses that lease, rather than own, the real property at which they

conduct business. In most cases, possessory interests in real property are placed on the unsecured

roll if the holder of the possessory interest does not also own other real property in the county.

Taxable airplanes and boats are also on the unsecured roll.

The board roll lists all property assessed by the State Board of Equalization (SBE or Board). This

roll is prepared by the Board and delivered to the county auditor, who allocates board

assessments within the county according to statute. As mentioned above, the board roll is

considered part of the secured roll.

Secured property taxes are payable in two installments, the first no later than December 10 and

the second no later than April 10. Unsecured property taxes are payable in one installment due no

later than August 31. The county tax collector is responsible for the preparation of tax bills and

the collection of taxes due.

The supplemental assessment roll lists all property that has undergone a change in ownership or

new construction. It is discussed later in this appendix.

ASSESSMENT ROLL REVISIONS AND ESCAPE ASSESSMENTS

For a wide variety of reasons, the initial assessment roll inevitably contains errors. Common

errors include errors in value judgment, "clerical" (calculation) errors, errors caused by the failure

of property owners to report correctly (or to report at all), and various misunderstandings. Such

errors result in overassessments, underassessments, misclassifications, assessments to the wrong

assessees, assessments assigned to the wrong tax-rate jurisdictions, and numerous other problems

that result in incorrect assessments.

In general, California law provides, within specified time limitations, that an erroneous

assessment is to be corrected, regardless of the cause of the error and regardless of whether the

error resulted in an overassessment or an underassessment. Both the limitation on time (statute of

limitations) and the procedure for making a correction vary greatly according to the nature and

cause of the error.

Any error that results in an underassessment (or no assessment where there should have been

one), regardless of the reason, is an "escape." The first sentence of section 531 makes it clear

what is required when an escape has occurred: "If any property belonging on the local roll has

escaped assessment, the assessor shall assess the property on discovery at its value on the lien

date for the year for which it escaped assessment." Section 861 establishes the same requirement

for escaped property subject to assessment by the Board. As stated previously, there are time

limitations and procedural differences for various types of escapes, but sections 531 and 861

make it clear that any escape is to be enrolled unless the applicable statute of limitations or other

specific provision of law prohibits or modifies the assessor's ability to do so.

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Errors that result in overassessments must also be corrected. Some of the statutes governing

corrections use the word "may" rather than "shall" (e.g., see sections 4831(a) and 4831.5), but

others provide that errors resulting in lower values or taxes "shall" be corrected (e.g., sections

51.5, 4831(b), 4985, and 5096). Although legally "shall" is mandatory and "may" is permissive

(see section 16), certainly the assessor's obligation to make corrections that result in lower

assessments or taxes is equal to the obligation to enroll escapes.

One important difference between escape assessments and corrections that reduce the assessment

or tax is that the assessor enrolls escape assessments unilaterally. In most cases, a correction that

reduces the assessed value or tax bill requires the concurrence of one or more other county

officers, because the taxpayer may be entitled to claim a refund. In the case of a refund of taxes

paid, the taxpayer must file a claim for the refund within four years after making the payment or

within one year after the mailing of a tax collector's notice of overpayment, whichever is later.

As stated above, the process of correcting an erroneous assessment, whether an escape, a lower

assessment, or some other correction, varies greatly according to the circumstances of the

change. Assessors' Handbook Section 201, Assessment Roll Procedures, contains helpful

discussions regarding several types of escape and correction actions. Also see "Taxpayer

Reporting of Information" later in this appendix.

PROPERTY TAX RATE

The property tax rate is composed of two parts: (1) the basic, or general, rate; and (2) additional

rate(s) levied to retire voter-approved debt.

The basic rate is limited to a maximum of 1 percent. The tax proceeds resulting from the basic

rate are general revenues that are apportioned among local jurisdictions (e.g., counties, cities,

special districts, and school districts) according to a statutory formula. Local governmental

agencies within the counties are permitted to levy additional rates to retire voter-approved debt.

The tax proceeds from each additional debt rate are allocated to the local agency that incurred the

debt and are earmarked for the payment of principal and interest to retire the debt.

Depending on the number and size of approved debt issues, tax rates may vary from area to area

within a county. The SBE maintains a tax-rate area mapping program that assigns a unique tax-

rate area number (TRA) to each geographical area in the state with a different distribution of

revenues among local taxing jurisdictions. County auditors use TRAs to allocate property tax

revenues to the appropriate taxing jurisdictions, and the SBE also uses TRAs to allocate state

assessments among the counties.

The tax rate, as described above, applies to locally assessed real property and state assessed

property. The California Constitution, article XIII, section 12, provides that the tax rate

applicable to the unsecured roll is the prior year's secured roll tax rate.

To determine the amount of tax due, the tax rate is applied to the taxable value of the property

(defined as the "assessed value" or "full cash value" per section 51). For example, property with a

AH 501 January 2002 129

taxable value of $200,000 in an area where the total tax rate is 1.1 percent would have a property

tax liability of $2,200, computed as follows:

$200,000 assessed value x 0.011 tax rate (1.1%) = $2,200 property tax due

In most cases, the owner of the property is assessed for the property tax. As provided in section

405, the county assessor may assess the owner or the lessee, or may make a joint assessment to

both the owner and lessee.

STATE VERSUS LOCAL ASSESSMENT

The assessment function is the joint responsibility of the state's 58 county assessors and the SBE.

All taxable property is either locally assessed by county assessors or state assessed by the SBE.

County assessors are locally elected officials. Assessors' duties and practices are prescribed by

the State Constitution, statutes passed by the Legislature (primarily in the Revenue and Taxation

Code or the Government Code), and property tax rules adopted by the State Board of

Equalization.

The SBE was established in 1879 by constitutional amendment. Its original purpose was to

regulate county assessment practices in order to insure uniform and equitable assessments and to

assess the property of railroads. Currently, in addition to its property tax responsibilities, the

Board administers a variety of state and local business tax programs. The Board consists of five

elected members, four of whom are elected from legislatively defined districts. The fifth member,

the State Controller, is elected at large and serves in an ex officio capacity.

Role of County Assessors

County assessors are responsible for the assessment of all taxable property within their local

jurisdictions, except state assessed property. The assessor's responsibility involves three main

objectives: (1) discovering and taking inventory of all taxable property within the county; (2)

determining the taxability of each item of property; and (3) valuing and assessing each item of

taxable property in accordance with property tax law. Discovering and taking inventory of

property and determining its taxability, although difficult processes, are reasonably precise and

objective. The third objective, property valuation and assessment, involves detailed analyses and

requires the application of considerable knowledge and skill.

Role of the State Board of Equalization

State Assessments and Appeals

Under article XIII, section 19 of the California Constitution, the SBE is responsible for the

assessment of property owned or used by specified public utilities (generally regulated telephone,

telegraph, electric, and gas companies), the property of railroads, and all intercounty pipelines,

canals, flumes, ditches, and aqueducts.

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The procedures governing such valuation and

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See the State Assessment Manual for a detailed discussion on state assessment.

AH 501 January 2002 130

assessments are set forth in sections 721 through 868. The values for these state-assessed

properties are entered on the Board roll and allocated to the counties on a proportional basis.

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The Board also hears appeals of certain property tax matters, including petitions for reassessment

of public utilities and railroads (state assessees), appeals on assessments of taxable property

owned by local governments outside their boundaries,

117

and appeals by claimants whose

property has been denied the welfare exemption by the Board's staff.

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Oversight of Local Assessment Practices

In addition to the assessment of state-assessed property, the Board has several duties relating to

the local assessment function. As provided in Government Code section 15606, the Board

prescribes rules governing all local boards of equalization and assessment appeals, provides

training in assessment practices for assessors and their staff, prescribes and enforces the use of

assessment forms, and initiates an action in court, if necessary, to compel an assessor to comply

with any rule adopted by the Board. These duties, which are aimed at promoting equitable and

uniform assessment throughout the state, are carried out through a variety of activities, including

the following:

• Property Tax Rules

• Letters To Assessors

• Assessment Practices Surveys

• Assessors' Handbook

• Program Assistance

• Appraiser Training and Certification

Property Tax Rules. The Board prescribes rules and regulations to govern assessors and local

boards of equalization (appeals boards). These rules are adopted to interpret and clarify statutes

relating to assessment principles and procedures and have the force and effect of law.

Letters To Assessors. The Board issues advisory Letters To Assessors. These letters, which are

distributed to all county assessors and to interested parties by subscription, provide uniform

information and instruction about particular applications of property tax law and assessment

matters.

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The Board performs the entire assessment function—appraisal, assessment, and tax collection—for privately

owned railroad cars and harvested timber. The taxes collected from timber owners are redistributed to the counties

on a proportional basis; the tax on private railroad cars is the only property tax that is retained by the state.

117

While the California Constitution provides generally that property owned by government entities is exempt from

property taxation, real property owned by local governments outside their boundaries is locally assessable if the

property was taxable at the time of acquisition. (Article XIII, section 11.)

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In order to qualify for the welfare exemption, the claim must be approved by both the Board and the county

assessor.

AH 501 January 2002 131

Assessment Practices Surveys. Under state law, the Board is required to periodically "survey"

the assessment practices of each county assessor's office. The purpose of the survey is to (1)

determine the adequacy of the procedures and practices the county assessor uses in valuing

property, and (2) evaluate the assessor's performance of mandated duties. The Board also

conducts "special topic surveys" on assessment practices statewide. These surveys focus on

specific subject areas (e.g., "change in ownership" or "assessment appeal procedures") that have a

significant impact on local property taxation. They are conducted on an as needed basis.

Assessors' Handbook. The Board publishes the Assessors' Handbook, a collection of separately

bound manuals on various appraisal and assessment topics for the guidance of assessors and their

staffs. The manuals—formally individual "sections" of the Handbook—are periodically updated

to reflect legislative changes and revisions in recommended appraisal and assessment procedures.

This manual, for example, is a particular section of the Assessors' Handbook.

Program Assistance. The Board conducts several programs that assist county assessors in the

local assessment function. The Board reviews property tax exemptions granted at the county

level, and it has a direct role in administering the welfare exemption, which cannot be granted

without Board approval. The Board prevents multiple claims for the homeowners' exemption by

acting as a statewide clearinghouse for claims, and it performs a similar function for other

property tax relief programs. The Legal Entity Ownership Program discovers changes in control

or changes in ownership of legal entities, which may require reassessment of property owned by

the entities. This information is difficult to acquire at the local level. Finally, the Board

prescribes many types of forms used by assessors, including business property statements,

exemption claim forms, and change in ownership forms.

Appraiser Training and Certification. Appraisers working for county assessors' offices or the

Property Taxes Department of the State Board of Equalization must hold a valid appraiser's

certificate issued by the Board. In order to obtain and retain the certificate, appraisers must meet

minimum qualifications, pass an examination, and complete a specified number of hours of

training per year. The Board conducts training classes and workshops at various sites statewide

and monitors appraisers' progress toward fulfilling annual training requirements.

Property tax appraisers meeting the minimum qualifications are issued a temporary certificate,

which is valid for no more than one year. Within that time, the appraiser must pass the

certification exam given by the Board. Certified property tax appraisers must annually complete

24 hours of training conducted or approved by the Board. After holding a valid appraiser's

certificate for at least three years, an appraiser may obtain an advanced appraiser's certificate by

meeting specified educational requirements or passing an advanced certification examination. A

holder of this certificate is required to complete at least 12 hours of training each year.

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Refer to sections 671 through 673 and rules 281 through 283 for certification and training requirements.

AH 501 January 2002 132

LIEN DATE

All taxable property (both state and locally assessed) is assessed annually for property tax

purposes as of 12:01 a.m. on January 1, which is called the lien date.

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It is referred to as the

lien date because on this date the taxes become a lien against all real property assessed on the

secured roll.

TAXPAYER REPORTING OF INFORMATION

The statutes require that any person who acquires real property, a manufactured home, or a

controlling interest (more than 50 percent) in a legal entity, or any "original co-owner" who

cumulatively transfers more than 50 percent of the legal entity interests, must file a change in

ownership statement within 45 days of the date of the transfer. (Sections 480 through 480.4.) In

most cases, this requirement is satisfied by filing a preliminary change in ownership report

(PCOR) concurrently with the recordation of the deed. Both the change in ownership statement

and the PCOR inform the assessor of the property, date, and persons involved in a change in

ownership and whether or not the property is subject to reappraisal. Similar provisions in

sections 480.7 and 487 require that a life insurance company that has established a separate

account in connection with a pension plans must file a change in ownership statement showing

transfers of real property to or from that account. Penalties are applicable for failure to report any

transfers resulting in a change in ownership. (Sections 480.7 and 482.)

With respect to reporting personal property, section 441 requires that each person/legal entity

owning taxable personal property costing $100,000 or more shall file with the assessor a signed

property statement between the lien date and 5 p.m. on April 1. Persons or entities that do not

meet the $100,000 threshold are nevertheless required to file upon request of the assessor. A

penalty of 10 percent of the assessed value of the unreported property may be imposed for failure

to file timely. If, after written request any person fails to provide the information required, the

assessor shall estimate the value of the property and "promptly" assess the property.

TAXPAYER APPEALS OF PROPERTY VALUATION

Property owners may appeal assessments

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appearing on the regular assessment roll by filing an

application for change in assessment with the county appeals board (either the board of

supervisors sitting as a county board of equalization or an assessment appeals board appointed by

the board of supervisors to replace the county board of equalization) between July 2 and

September 15.

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Assessments made outside the regular assessment period (e.g., supplemental

assessments and escape assessments) may also be appealed according to statutory provisions

found in section 1603 and following. (For appeals of base year values, also see section 80.)

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Section 2192 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

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See the Assessment Appeals Manual for detailed discussion of assessment appeals.

122

If September 15 falls on Saturday, Sunday, or a legal holiday, an application that is mailed and postmarked on the

next business day shall be deemed to have been filed within "the time period between July 2 and September 15."

Additionally, effective January 1, 2002, the deadline is extended from September 15 to November 30 for property on

the secured roll if the assessee did not receive notice prior to August 1 of the same year.

AH 501 January 2002 133

When the taxpayer challenges an assessment, there is frequently some discussion informally with

the assessor's office as to how the assessment was determined. The assessor and the taxpayer may

exchange information about the value or characteristics of the property. Occasionally, in

becoming aware of new facts affecting the value of the property, the assessor and the taxpayer

may agree to the same amount and file a written stipulation with the board. (Section 1603(c).)

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The first formal level of appeal is to the board of supervisors sitting as a county board of

equalization or to an assessment appeals board if the county has created one or more of these

boards. Counties may also use hearing officers for some types of appeals. The hearing is

administrative in nature, so the taxpayer's use of legal counsel is optional.

Generally, the property owner has the burden of proving that the assessor has improperly valued

the property. However, the burden of proof falls on the assessor in the case of an appeal

concerning an owner-occupied single-family dwelling or any appeal of an escape assessment. In

a case where real property transferred ownership, section 110 and rule 2 provide that the

purchase price is rebuttably presumed to be the correct value as of the date of the transfer. The

burden of proof falls on the party seeking to overcome that presumption.

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If the appeal is denied, the taxpayer has recourse to the courts, but only under certain

circumstances. These include arbitrariness, lack of due process, abuse of discretion, failure to

follow standards prescribed by law (e.g., using an erroneous method of valuation), or other

questions of law. The assessor may appeal to court for the same reasons as the taxpayer. In either

case, the court will not receive new evidence of value and will only review the record of the

hearing before the county board.

In the case of state-assessed properties, assessees appeal to the State Board of Equalization. If the

appeal is denied, the assessee is entitled to trial de novo in the superior court. (In a trial de novo,

new evidence may be heard, and the court hears the case based on all available information, not

just that contained in the prior administrative record.)

PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS

The State Constitution provides for a variety of exemptions from the property tax. Some of the

exemptions are required by the Constitution. Others are not specifically required but the

Constitution provides that the Legislature may, by statute, provide for the exemption. Some

exemptions include the entire property; others provide for partial relief. In total, there are over

100 exemptions from property tax. About 30 of them require claims to be filed or the exemption

is waived.

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Appeals boards are not required to accept stipulations, so a stipulation must contain adequate reasons for an

agreed-upon value.

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This presumption does not apply to a sale of a possessory interest. In the case of an appeal of a cable television

possessory interest where the assessor values the possessory interest based on something other than a portion of the

franchise fee, neither side has a presumption of correctness.

AH 501 January 2002 134

The Legislature has authority to exempt any kind of personal property as prescribed by statute,

but it cannot exempt real property without specific Constitutional authority. Exemptions are not a

creation of article XIII A (Proposition 13) but are provided under article XIII of the Constitution.

In regard to real property, article XIII, section 3 lists the various types of exempt property.

Section 4 describes the type of property that the Legislature may exempt from property taxation

in whole or in part and includes the welfare exemption, and section 6 provides that the failure to

claim an exemption in the manner prescribed by law is deemed a waiver of the exemption.

Article XIII, section 7, allows the Legislature, with a two-thirds vote, to authorize county boards

of supervisors to exempt real property having a full value so low that, if not exempt, the total

taxes and applicable subventions on the property would amount to less than the cost of assessing

and collecting them.

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The "assessment process" describes the functions required in property assessment. Although the

following is primarily directed at local assessment, much of it applies to state assessment as well.

A review of the assessment process presents a good overview of the assessment activities within

an assessor's office. The assessment process comprises the following functions:

• Property Discovery

• Property Identification and Situs

• Property Classification

• Data Collection and Analysis

• Property Valuation

• Preparation and Certification of the Assessment Roll

• Notification of Assessment

• Appeals Management

Property Discovery. This function involves finding all taxable property in the jurisdiction. For

land, buildings, and other things attached to land (real property), this requires a mapping system

and, generally, on-site verification of location. The discovery of movable items (personal

property) is accomplished by a system of taxpayer self-reporting as described above and is

supported by an audit program. The discovery phase also includes obtaining an accurate

description of the taxable property.

Property Identification and Situs. Real property items are identified by a parcel identification

system keyed to assessor's maps. Personal property is identified by some type of account

identification system. Situs refers to physical location in the case of real property and taxable

location in the case of personal property.

125

The subject of exemptions is briefly discussed in Chapter 3.

AH 501 January 2002 135

Property Classification. The assessed property must be classified according to type. Common

categories include land, improvements, fixtures, personal property, and exempt property. This list

is not all-inclusive. The property classification may have a bearing on the manner in which

property is assessed or taxed.

Data Collection and Analysis. This phase involves the collection and analysis of the economic

data required to value the property. General, comparative, and specific data are collected.

Property Valuation. In this phase, generally accepted methods of valuation are used in

conjunction with the data obtained to estimate the taxable value of the property. The valuation

becomes the basis for the assessment.

Preparation and Certification of the Assessment Roll. As previously discussed, the

assessment roll lists the taxable value of all taxable property in a county. The specific content of

the roll is prescribed by statute and Board regulation. The assessor is required to complete and

deliver the local roll to the county auditor on or before July 1 of each year.

Notification. On or prior to the completion of the assessment roll, the assessor must provide

notification to property owners of their assessments in a manner prescribed by law. The assessor

is always required to notify owners whose real property value has increased for reasons other

than an increase caused by the annual inflation factor. Generally, the law permits but does not

require assessors to notify owners if there has been a decrease in the assessment or no change to

the assessment.

Appeals Management. As previously discussed, property owners have the right to appeal their

assessments before a local appeals or equalization board. An important part of the assessor's

office workload following enrollment of the assessment is the management of the appeals

function.

FOUNDATION OF PROPERTY TAX LAW

The foundation of property tax law is found in the California Constitution, state statutes, property

tax rules, judicial decisions, and other sources. These are discussed below.

CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION

The basis for assessment of all real and personal property in California is the California

Constitution. Specifically, all property tax assessments are established by the provisions of either

article XIII or article XIII A (the constitutional article adopted following the passage of

Proposition 13). In one form or another, article XIII, section 1, authorizing the assessment of

property "in proportion to its full value unless otherwise provided by this constitution or the laws

of the United States," has been in existence for more than 100 years. Article XIII A (Proposition

13), adopted in 1978, overlays an additional system of assessment, and to that extent, it has

overridden article XIII, section 1. However, personal property continues to be governed by article

XIII, section 1. Not subject to the California Constitution are federal lands and all property

AH 501 January 2002 136

owned by the United States, including certain Indian lands and personal property, which are

immune from taxation by states and counties unless authorized by Congress.

STATUTES

The vast majority of the Legislature's enactments with respect to ad valorem assessment are

found in the Revenue and Taxation Code. Where there is an apparent inconsistency or

contradiction between a statute enacted by the Legislature and a provision of the Constitution, the

SBE and the county assessor have no authority to refuse to apply or enforce the statute. Under

article III, section 3.5 of the Constitution, an administrative agency created by the California

Constitution or by an initiative has no power to declare a statute unconstitutional or refuse to

enforce it unless an appellate court has made a determination that such statute is unconstitutional.

Although a county assessor is also considered an "administrative agency," section 538 grants

special authority to assessors to bring suit if the assessor believes a statute or a rule to be

unconstitutional or invalid.

PROPERTY TAX RULES

Title 18 of the California Code of Regulations embodies the Property Tax Rules, which are

formally promulgated by the SBE for the purpose of interpreting and implementing the statutes.

Numerous appellate courts have held that these rules are more than mere "guidelines" and have

the force of law on all parties, both taxpayers and assessors.

JUDICIAL DECISIONS

Judicial precedents under both article XIII and article XIII A have shaped the course of

California's property tax system. For example, in DeLuz Homes, Inc. v. County of San Diego

(1955) 45 Cal.2d 546, the court upheld both the concept and the valuation of possessory interests,

stating that possessory interests in tax exempt land or improvements are taxable real property and

must be assessed at full cash value. In the case of Amador Valley Joint Union High School Dist.

v. State Board of Equalization (1978) 22 Cal.3d 208, the court determined that Proposition 13

was constitutional and not a violation of equal protection. As another example, in Title Insurance

& Trust Co. v. County of Riverside (1989) 48 Cal.3d 84, the court held that if in a corporate

merger or reorganization one entity indirectly obtains control over another (through the purchase

or transfer of stock), there is a change in ownership as to the real property owned by the

corporation which obtained indirect control.

In some instances, the Legislature has responded to appellate or Supreme Court decisions by

amending property tax statutes in major respects, such as excluding from change in ownership

the dissolution of a partnership by means of a buy-out by the majority partner under section

64(a), reversing the consequences of Zapara v. County of Orange (1994) 26 Cal.App.4th 464.

OTHER

While several Board-generated documents and publications provide advice regarding the

application of property tax law and assessment (the Assessors' Handbook, Letters To Assessors,

and Assessment Practices Surveys described previously), none actually have the authority of law.

AH 501 January 2002 137

They are distributed to all county assessors and other interested parties in order to provide

guidance about particular aspects of property tax assessment and to promote uniform assessment

practices consistent with property tax law. While courts have assigned varying degrees of

importance to such documents ("entitled to great weight" as opposed to "not persuasive"), they

are strictly advisory and are not binding on taxpayers or assessors.

ASSESSMENT PRE- AND POST-PROPOSITION 13

In June 1978, when California voters approved Proposition 13 (placed into law by article XIII A

amending the California Constitution and subsequent implementing statutes and rules),

California property taxation was revolutionized by: (1) limiting the property tax rate to 1 percent

plus additional rates necessary to retire voter-approved bonded indebtedness; (2) placing explicit

limitations on the power of government to impose additional property taxes; and (3) significantly

changing the method of property assessment.

Prior to Proposition 13, annual assessments for both real property and personal property were

based on current market value. As a practical matter, fiscal and staffing constraints prevented

assessors from physically revaluing each item of property in their respective counties every single

year, with the result that reappraisals were usually conducted on a cyclical basis. Typically, these

cycles ranged in duration from three to seven years. Between physical reappraisals, assessors

would often apply interim value increases based on trending factors. This system of assessment

ensured that all property—subject to the limitations of cyclical appraisal programs—was

assessed based on its current market value.

Under the law implementing Proposition 13, most locally-assessed real property is now subject

to a set of assessment rules based on its market value at the date of acquisition. Several

important components of this system are described below:

• Proposition 13 first required property assessments to be "rolled back" to the 1975-76 level

for the 1978-79 fiscal year. Properties that have not sold or undergone new construction

since February 1975 are said to have a 1975 base year value. The base year value is the

current market value (or "full cash value") of real property in 1975-76, or in any

subsequent year based upon a change in ownership or new construction. (Sections 50

through 51.5, and 110.1.)

• Each property's base year value must be adjusted each year to reflect inflation as measured

by the California Consumer Price Index, but an upward adjustment cannot exceed 2

percent. This process continues until the property changes ownership or undergoes new

construction. The value that reflects the annual inflation indexing is known as the adjusted,

or factored, base year value. (Section 51.) Each year, the adjusted base year value is the

maximum assessable amount for the property for that year.

• When a change in ownership occurs, real property is assessed to its current market value as

of the date of the change in ownership. (Sections 60-61.) Newly constructed property is

also assessed at its current market value as of its date of completion. (Unfinished new

AH 501 January 2002 138

construction is assessed based on its market value on the January 1st date.) (Sections 70-

71.) Acquisition value assessment refers to the process of basing the assessment on the

value of the property at change in ownership or completed new construction. The

assessment at the time of change in ownership or new construction becomes the property's

new base year value, which is subject to the annual inflation adjustment described above.

• If a fractional change in ownership occurs, the portion that changes ownership is given a

new base year value based upon its current market value as of the date of the change in

ownership and the portion that did not change ownership retains its existing adjusted base

year value. Analogously, if new construction occurs on only a portion of a property (e.g.,

the addition of a bedroom), the newly constructed portion is given its own base year value

based upon its current market value, and the pre-existing portion retains the old adjusted

base year value. Thus, a property assessment can contain multiple base year values, based

upon prior fractional ownership changes or partial new construction, until such time as the

entire property interest changes ownership.

• Property assessments are reviewed each year for a decline in value. If the current market

value of a property is below its adjusted base year value, the property is temporarily

reassessed to reflect the lower value, that is, current market value. (Section 51(a).) This

type of reduction is frequently referred to by the original proposition number approved by

the voters, or a "Proposition 8" (or Prop 8) adjustment. At some future year, when the

property's current market value exceeds its adjusted base year value, the adjusted base year

value is restored to the assessment roll.

Not all property is subject to article XIII A (Proposition 13). Locally assessed personal property

and state assessed property are not subject to Proposition 13 (article XIII A).

126

These two

categories of property are assessed at current market value each year, as of the lien date, by

county assessors and the SBE, respectively.

Thus, the only category of property generally subject to the provisions of article XIII A, although

it includes the major portion of the total assessed value in the state, is locally assessed real

property (including fixtures). Within this category there are several classes of property not

subject to article XIII A provisions. These include "restricted value" properties and taxable

government lands.

127

SOME IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT PROVISIONS

The following sections, building on the framework outlined above, discuss several significant

assessment provisions under article XIII A.

126

The appraisal and assessment of personal property is addressed in Chapter 7.

127

Restricted value properties and taxable government owned lands are discussed in Chapter 3.

AH 501 January 2002 139

EXCLUSIONS FROM REASSESSMENT UPON CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP OR NEW

CONSTRUCTION

Constitutional amendments to Proposition 13 and various statutory interpretations have permitted

several exclusions from the provisions requiring the reassessment of locally assessed real

property to current market value upon a change in ownership or new construction. Some

significant exclusions are:

Interspousal Exclusion. According to section 63, any transfer between spouses during marriage

or transfers between former spouses after marriage in connection with a property settlement

agreement or dissolution are excluded from change in ownership provisions. No claim form is

required.

Parent/Child and Grandparent/Grandchild Exclusion. Under section 63.1, transfers from parents

of their principle residence and up to $1 million (taxable value) of other property to their children

(and vice versa) may be excluded from change in ownership reassessment, providing a claim is

filed and certain requirements are met. In 1996, a similar exclusion was enacted for transfers of

property occurring on or after March 27, 1996, from a grandparent to a grandchild under certain

limiting conditions. If a claim is not timely filed, the exclusion is available prospectively only

when the claim is filed.

Trust Exclusion. Under section 62 (d), transfers of real property or interests in legal entities into

a revocable trust or into an irrevocable trust in which the grantor/transferor is the present

beneficiary are excluded from change in ownership. It is necessary to look through the trust to

determine the beneficial owners of the property or legal entity transferred.

Replacement Property for That Taken by Eminent Domain. Excluded from change in ownership

and reappraisal is the acquisition of comparable replacement property made necessary due to a

taking by eminent domain, public entity acquisition, or judgment of inverse condemnation. A

claim must be timely filed. (Section 68.)

Replacement Residences for Senior Citizens or Disabled Persons. Under section 69.5, senior

citizens may transfer the adjusted base year value of an original principal residence to a

replacement principal residence if the replacement is of equal or lesser current market value and

is located in the same county, or between counties if the county where the replacement home is

located has adopted an ordinance permitting the transfer. Severely and permanently disabled

persons meeting specified requirements may also transfer the base year value of an original

principal residence to a replacement dwelling of equal or lesser current market value under the

same provisions. A claim form is required and the claim must be timely filed.

Property Acquired or Constructed to Replace Property Destroyed in a Disaster. Owners of

property that is substantially damaged or destroyed by a disaster, as declared by the Governor,

may transfer the base year value of such property to comparable property within the same county

under conditions specified in section 69. Alternatively, under the conditions prescribed in section

69.3, an intercounty transfer of the base year value is allowed if the county where the

AH 501 January 2002 140

replacement home is located has adopted an ordinance permitting the transfer. A claim form must

be timely filed.

Proportional Interest Transfers. Under section 62(a)(2), any transfer between an individual and a

legal entity or between legal entities that results solely in a change in the method of holding title

to the real property, and in which the proportional ownership interests of the transferors and

transferees remain exactly the same, is excluded from change in ownership and reappraisal. It is

necessary to look through the legal entity to determine the proportionality of ownership interests

and whether the exclusion applies; a change in ownership statement is required.

Legal Entity Interest Transfers. Under section 64(a), the purchase or transfer of ownership

interests in legal entities, such as corporate stock, partnership or LLC interests, does not

constitute a transfer of the real property owned by the legal entity, unless there is a change in

control under section 64(c) or a change in ownership under section 64(d).

Other. Exclusions from market value assessment as a result of new construction include the

following: (1) additions of fire sprinkler systems (section 74); (2) modifications to make an

existing residence or structure more accessible to a severely and permanently disabled person

(sections 74.3 and 74.6); and (3) specified seismic retrofitting and earthquake hazard mitigation

features applied to existing buildings (section 74).

DECLINE IN VALUE APPRAISALS

Proposition 8, passed in November 1978, amended article XIII A to provide for declines in value.

As a result, section 51 requires the assessor to annually enroll either: (1) a property's base year

value factored for inflation; or (2) its market value as of the lien date (taking into account any

factors causing a decline in value), whichever is lower.

When a property is assessed at its current market value due to a decline in value, the resulting

assessment is commonly referred to as a "Prop 8" value or assessment. Prop 8 reductions in value

are temporary reductions recognizing that the current market value of a property has fallen below

its factored base year value. Once a Prop 8 value has been enrolled, a property's value must be

reviewed each following lien date to determine whether its then current market value is less than

its factored base year value. When and if the market value of the Prop 8 property increases above

its factored base year value on a subsequent lien date, the assessor must again enroll its factored

base year value.

Unlike adjusted base year values, which may increase no more than 2 percent in any year, Prop 8

values can vary widely from year to year as the market fluctuates. However, in no case may a

Prop 8 value higher than a property's factored base year value be enrolled.

Some declines in value are treated differently than under Prop 8. If a property is damaged or

destroyed by a misfortune or calamity and the county in which it is located has adopted a disaster

ordinance pursuant to section 170, the owner may qualify for a reduction in the assessment that

differs significantly from a Prop 8 reduction. First, such a reduction is effective immediately as of

the date a calamity occurs, instead of on the following lien date as in a Prop 8 reduction. Second,

AH 501 January 2002141

calamity reductions result in a lower assessment only during the time period between the date of

damage and completion of repair. When the repair is complete, the property's factored base year

value is restored to the assessment roll (however, items added during repair and not a part of the

original property may qualify as new construction and result in additional assessments).

If a property was being assessed under Prop 8 when it suffered damage and was then granted

additional calamity relief under section 170, the assessor must carefully review the value of the

property at the completion of repair to determine whether its factored base year value or Prop 8

market value should be enrolled.

SUPPLEMENTAL ASSESSMENT ROLL

During the first five years after the implementation of Proposition 13, some property owners

were able to delay the added property tax liability arising from a change in ownership or new

construction. This occurred because of the continuation of pre-Proposition 13 rules establishing

tax liability for the fiscal year (July 1 to June 30) based on the taxable value of the property as of

the preceding March 1 lien date. (Effective for the 1997 assessment year, the lien date was

changed from March 1 to January 1.)

Prior to July 1, 1983, the law provided that when property was assessed due to change in

ownership or new construction, the additional value was not subject to tax until the next fiscal

year beginning after the next March 1. Under this system, new value could escape taxation for a

period of from 4 to 15 months. For example:

• An ownership change in February 1980 was not reflected in higher taxes until the 1980-81

fiscal year, beginning July 1, 1980, 4 months later.

• An ownership change on March 2, 1980, was not reflected in higher taxes until the

1981-82 fiscal year, beginning July 1, 1981, 15 months later.

• An ownership change in October 1980 was not reflected in higher taxes until the 1981-82

fiscal year, beginning July 1, 1981, 8 months later.

With the Legislature's enactment, effective July 1, 1983, of supplemental assessment provisions,

property reassessed due to a change in ownership or new construction is now subject to tax

immediately (as of the date of change in ownership or completion of new construction) by

placing the new taxable value on the supplemental assessment roll. (Sections 75 and others.) The

supplemental roll applies only to locally assessed real property and manufactured homes.

Under the supplemental roll system, the increase or the decrease in assessed value resulting from

a change in ownership or new construction is reflected in a prorated assessment (the

supplemental assessment) that covers the portion of the fiscal year remaining after the date of the

change in ownership or completed new construction. The supplemental assessment statutes apply

to any property subject to article XIII A that has undergone a change in ownership or completed

new construction since July 1, 1983.

AH 501 January 2002 142

For changes in ownership or completed new construction occurring between January 1 and

May 31, two supplemental assessments are issued. The first covers the portion of the current

fiscal year remaining after the assessable event; the second covers the ensuing fiscal year in its

entirety.

Supplemental assessments do not affect exemptions for which the assessee is otherwise eligible.

If granted, the exemption is applied to the amount of the supplemental assessment.

• Effective January 1, 2001, section 75.11(d) requires assessors to enroll all supplemental

assessments: 1) on or before the fourth July 1 following the July 1 of the assessment year in

which either a change in ownership statement under sections 480 - 480.2 was filed or

preliminary change in ownership report under section 480.3 was filed or new construction

was completed, 2) on or before the sixth July 1 following the July 1 of the assessment year in

which either a change in ownership statement under sections 480 - 480.2 was filed or a

preliminary change in ownership report was filed, or new construction was completed if the

section 504 penalty was added, or 3) on or before the eighth July 1 following the July 1 of the

assessment year in which the event occurred if the change in ownership or change in control

was unrecorded and a change in ownership statement required by section 480 or preliminary

change in ownership report, as required by section 480.3, was not timely filed. Effective

January 1, 2002, the time limit for change in ownership statement or completion of new

construction to which the penalty in section 504 was added is changed from six years to eight

years. However, there is no limitations period on enrolling supplemental assessments if the

penalty under section 503 is added.

AH 501 January 2002 143

APPENDIX B: COMMON MEASUREMENTS USED IN APPRAISAL

Land Measurements-Linear

1 vara = 2.75 feet

1 vara = 33 inches

1 league (Spanish) = 2.6 miles

1 league = 3 miles

1 mile = 320 rods

1 mile = 80 chains

1 furlong = 1/8 mile

1 furlong = 660 feet

1 furlong = 10 chains

1 chain = 66 feet

1 chain = 100 links

1 chain = 4 rods

1 rod = 16.5 feet

1 rod = 25 links

1 link = 7.92 inches

1 mile = 5,280 feet

1 mile = 1,760 yards

1 yard = 3 feet

1 foot = 12 inches

Land Measurements-Area

36 sections = 1 township

1 square mile = 1 section

1 square mile = 640 acres

1 acre = 10 square chains

1 acre = 160 square rods

1 acre = 4,840 square yards

1 acre = 43,560 square feet

1 square yard = 9 square feet

1 square foot = 144 square inches

AH 501 January 2002 144

Depiction of a Section

1 section = 1 square mile

5,280 Feet

5 CH

5 Ac

N ½ of NW ¼

20 Acres

W ½ of 10 Ac.

NE ¼

80 Acres

SW ¼ of SE ¼ of

NW ¼ NE ¼

S ½ of SE ¼

of NW ¼ 1320 Feet 40 Acres

160 Rods

SW ¼ 160 Acres

2640 Feet

5,280 Feet

AH 501 January 2002 145

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Term Definition

Annuity

A periodic series of obligatory payments; an annuity can be level,

increasing, decreasing, or a combination thereof.

Annuity Factor

In yield capitalization, the number, usually obtained from financial tables,

that is multiplied by an income amount to produce an estimate of present

value.

Appraisal Unit

The unit that people in the market typically buy and sell.

Appreciation

The increase in property value resulting from an excess of demand for a

property relative to its supply.

Assemblage

The combining of two or more parcels, usually but not necessarily

contiguous, into one ownership or use.

Assessed Value

The taxable value of a property against which the tax rate is applied.

Assessment Roll

A listin

g of all taxable property within a county. It identifies, at a

minimum: (1) the property (usually by assessor's parcel number); (2) the

tax-rate area where the property is located; (3) the name (if known) and

mailing address of the assessee; (4) the assess

ed value of the property,

including separate assessed values for land, improvements, and personal

property; (5) penalties (if any); and (6) the amount (if any) of specified

exemptions (e.g., Homeowners', Church, Welfare, etc.). Distinct

assessment rolls include the locally-assessed secured and unsecured regular

assessment rolls, the locally-assessed supplemental assessment roll, and the

state-assessed roll (which is added to the locally-assessed secured roll).

Band of Investment

A technique in which the ca

pitalization rates attributable to the

components of a capital investment are weighted and combined to derive a

weighted-average rate attributable to the total investment.

Base Year Value

In accordance with section 110.1, a property's base year value is its fair

market value as of either the 1975 lien date or the date the property was

last purchased, newly constructed, or underwent a change in ownership

after the 1975 lien date.

Capitalization

Any method of converting expected future benefits into an indicator of

present value; the discounting of projected income to a present value.

Capitalization Rate

Any rate used to convert income into an indicator of value; a ratio that

expresses a relationship between income and value.

Change in

Ownership

A transfer of a present interest in real property, including the beneficial use

thereof, the value of which is substantially equal to the value of the fee

interest.

AH 501 January 2002 146

Term Definition

Comparative Sales

Approach

An approach to value by reference to sale prices of the subject property or

comparable properties; under rule 4, the preferred approach when reliable

market data are available.

Compound Interest

Interest on the sum of principal and the accrued interest, combined at

regular intervals; interest on interest.

Contract Rent

The actual amount of rent a property is earning as specified in a lease; the

existing rent on property as distinguished from rent that could be expected

if the property were available for rent on the open market.

Cost

The expenditure required to develop and construct an improvement or

acquire personal property.

Cost Approach

A value approach using the following procedures to derive a value

indicator: (1) estimate the current cost to reproduce or replace an existing

structure without untimely delays; (2) deduct for all accrued depreciation;

and (3) add the estimated land value and an amount to compensate for

entrepreneurial profit (if present).

Cost-Estimating

Methods

The estimation of replacement or reproduction cost. Four methods are

described below:

(1) Quantity Survey Method. Under this method, all costs of each piece of

material and all labor are estimated and summed; this method accounts for

the quantity and quality of all the agents of production necessary to

develop and construct an improvement.

(2) Square Foot Method. This method uses the known costs of similar

buildings, adjusted for physical differences and market conditions. The

costs are estimated in terms of dollars per unit, such as $100 per square

foot; costs per unit for properties of equal utility are often obtained from

data compiled and published by cost-estimating firms. Also known as the

Comparative Unit method. The Assessors' Standard Classification System

is used in conjunction with square foot cost tables to produce a cost

estimate using the square foot method.

(3) Unit-In-Place Method. This method adds together the unit cost of each

component of an improvement, such as the cost of a foundation, a wall, or

a roof; costs for walls and foundations are usually estimated per linear foot

and are often obtained from data compiled and published by cost-

estimating firms.

(4) Trended Historical Cost. Under this method, an improvement's

historical cost is adjusted (factored forward) to the current price level using

trending tables.

AH 501 January 2002 147

Term Definition

Depreciation

A decrease in utility resulting in a loss in property value; the difference

between estimated replacement or reproduction cost new as of a given date

and market value as of the same date. There are three principal categories

of depreciation, described below:

(1) Physical Deterioration. The loss in utility and value due to some

physical deterioration in the property; considered curable if the cost to cure

it is equal to or less than the value added by curing it.

(2) Functional Obsolescence. The loss in utility and value due to changes

in the desirability of the property; attributable to changes in tastes and style

or the result of a poor original design. Functional obsolescence is curable if

the cost to cure it is equal to or less than the value added by curing it.

(3) External (or Economic) Obsolescence. The loss in utility and value due

to an incurable defect caused by external negative influences outside the

property itself; results from the immobility of real property.

Direct

Capitalization

A capitalization method used to convert a single year's income expectancy

into an indicator of value, either by dividing the income estimate by an

appropriate rate or by multiplying the income estimate by an appropriate

factor.

Direct Costs

Expenditures required for the labor and materials necessary to develop and

construct an improvement; sometimes referred to as "hard costs."

Discounted Cash

Flow (DCF) Method

A capitalization method in which a discount rate is applied to a series of

projected income payments, including the reversion, in order to arrive at an

estimate of present value (i.e., current market value). The DCF method can

be applied with any yield capitalization technique.

Discount Rate

A selected yield rate used to convert expected future paym

ents into an

estimate of present value.

Economic Life

The period of time over which improvements to real property contribute to

property value.

Economic Rent

The amount of rental income that could be expected from a property if

available for rent on the open market, as indicated by the prevailing rental

rates for comparable properties under similar terms and conditions;

economic rent is distinguished from contract rent, which is the actual rental

income for the subject property as specified in a lease; economic rent is

also referred to as market rent.

Effective Age

The age indicated by the condition and utility of the property.

Effective Gross

Income

The estimated potential gross income less allowances for vacancy and

collection losses.

AH 501 January 2002 148

Term Definition

Equity Dividend

A single year's cash flow after debt service but before income taxes (i.e., a

single year's net income before recapture (NIBR) less debt service).

Equity

Capitalization Rate

A rate that reflects the relationship between the equity dividend and the

equity investment (i.e., a single year's net income before recapture less debt

service divided by the equity investment); a rate used to convert the equity

dividend into an indicator of equity value; also known as the equity

dividend rate, the cash on cash rate or the cash flow rate.

Expense Ratio

The ratio of total expenses, excluding debt service, to either potential or

effective gross income

Factor

One of two or more numbers that when multiplied together produce a third

number; a multiplier. A capitalization factor is the reciprocal of a

capitalization rate.

Fee Simple Estate

Absolute ownership unencumbered by any other interest or estate, subject

only to the limitations of eminent domain, escheat, police power, and

taxation.

Fixture

An item of tangible property, the nature of which was originally personal

property, but which is classified as real property for property tax purposes

because it is physically or constructively annexed to real property with the

intent that it remain annexed indefinitely.

Going Concern

Value

Generally, the total value of an operating business enterprise. It includes

the value of the real property, tangible personal property (e.g., machinery

and equipment), labor, the marketing operation, and intangible assets and

rights. It includes the incremental value of the business concern, which is

distinct from the value of the real property (See also footnote in Chapter 1,

"Other Types of Value," under the definition there.) This subject is

addressed in depth in Assessors' Handbook Section 502, Advanced

Appraisal.

Gross Income

Multiplier

The relationship between sale price (or value) and gross income, expressed

as a factor; used to estimate value as a multiple of income. Gross income is

usually (though not always) expressed in annual terms, and includes

income to the property from all sources; in an apartment property, for

example, the gross income could be the sum of living unit rent, parking

space rent, vending machine income, and laundry facility income.

AH 501 January 2002 149

Term Definition

Gross Rent

Multiplier

The relationship between sale price (or value) and gross rent, expressed as

a factor; used to estimate value as a multiple of income. Gross rent is

usually (though not always) expressed in annual terms, and includes the

income to the property derived from the principal improvements only. The

gross rent for an apartment property, for example, is from living units only

and excludes income from parking space rent, vending machine income

and laundry facility income.

Highest and Best

Use

The most profitable use of a property at the time of the appraisal; that

available use and program of future utilization that produces the highest

present land value; must be legal, physically possible, financially feasible,

and maximally profitable; see text for the distinction between highest and

best use as though vacant and highest and best use as improved.

Historical Cost

The total cost of a property when it was originally constructed.

Improvements

All buildings, structures, fixtures, and fences erected on or affixed to the

land; all fruit, nut bearing, ornamental trees and vines, not of natural

growth, and not exempt form taxation, except date palms under eight years

of age; see text for statutory definition.

Income Approach

Any method of converting an income stream or a series of future income

payments into an indicator of present value.

Income Rate (R

)

A rate that expresses the relationship between one year's income and the

corresponding total value of a property; or, in the case of R

, with the value

of only the equity interest.

Indirect Costs

The outlay for items, other than labor and materials, required to develop

and construct an improvement; includes such costs as legal fees, property

taxes, construction financing, administrative expenses, appraisal fees, and

lease-up expenses; sometimes referred to as "soft costs."

Interest Rate

The rate of return on debt capital; the price paid for borrowing money.

Investment Value

The specific value of property to a particular investor, based upon

individual investment requirements, as distinguished from the concept of

market value.

Leaseback

A transaction in which an investor purchases property and leases it back to

the seller, generally under lease terms and conditions that were negotiated

at the time of the sale.

Leased Fee Interest

or Estate

The lessor's interest in property; an ownership interest held by a landlord

with the right of use and occupancy conveyed by lease to others; the right

to receive rent stipulated in the lease and to receive the property (the

reversionary right) at the end of the lease term.

AH 501 January 2002150

Term Definition

Leasehold

The lessee's interest in property; the right to use and occupy real property

during the term of a lease, subject to any contractual restrictions.

Lessee

One who has the right to use or occupy property under a lease agreement; a

tenant.

Lessor

One who conveys the right to use and occupy property under a lease

agreement; a landlord.

Lien date

All taxable property (both state and locally assessed) is assessed annually

for property tax purposes as of 12:01 a.m. on January 1, which is called the

lien date. It is referred to as the lien date because on this date the taxes

become a lien against all real property assessed on the secured roll.

Loan-to-Value Ratio

The ratio between the mortgage amount and the valu

e of the property

pledged as security for the debt; usually expressed as a percentage.

Market Rent

The amount of rental income that could be expected from a property if

available for rent on the open market, indicated by the prevailing rental

rates for co

mparable properties under similar terms and conditions;

distinguished from contract rent, which is the actual rental for the subject

property as specified in a lease; also referred to as economic rent.

Mortgage Constant

The capitalization rate for debt; the ratio of the annual debt service to the

principal amount of the mortgage loan; the total annual amount required to

pay off an amortizing loan with level monthly payments, expressed as a

percentage of the original loan amount.

Net Income Before

Recapture and

Taxes (NIBR&T)

The annual net income remaining after deducting all operating expenses

but before deducting other charges such as recapture, debt service, and

property taxes. For property tax appraisal purposes, NIBR&T is capitalized

into an indicator of value using various income capitalization techniques.

Net Lease

A lease where the lessee pays not only for the use of the property, but also

for stipulated additional charges such as property taxes, insurance, and

maintenance.

New Construction

Any a

ddition to real property, whether land or improvements (including

fixtures) since the last lien date; any alteration of land or improvements

(including fixtures) since the last lien date that constitutes a major

rehabilitation thereof or which converts the property to a different use.

Operating Expenses

The periodic expenditures necessary to maintain the real property and

continue production of the effective gross income, assuming prudent and

competent management; sometimes referred to as "allowable expenses."

AH 501 January 2002151

Term Definition

Overall Rate (R

)

The relationship between the anticipated net income before deducting for

recapture (NIBR) and the sale price; the rate implies the investor's

perception of both return on and recapture of the investment.

Percent Good

The complement of depreciation; if a property is 20 percent depreciated, its

percent good is 80 percent; percent good refers to the portion of benefits

remaining in an asset compared to the total benefits when new.

Personal Property

Personal property includes all property except real property.

Plottage

An increment of value that results when two or more sites are assembled

under single ownership, producing greater utility.

Potential Gross

Income

The total income of a property before deducting vacancy and collection

losses or operating expenses.

Principal

A capital sum; a payment for reduction of the capital borrowed as

distinguished from the payment of interest.

Projection Period

The holding period; a period of time over which net income is projected

for valuation purposes; a presumed period of investment in property.

Property

Property includes all matters and things—real, personal, and mixed—that

are capable of private ownership.

Real Property

The possession of, claim to, ownership of, or right to the possession of

land; all mines, minerals, and quarries in the land; all standing timber

whether or not belonging to the owner of the land, and all rights and

privileges appertaining thereto; and improvements; in California property

tax law, the term is synonymous with "real estate."

Recapture

The return of invested capital; in real estate investments, capital may be

returned gradually as part of the annual income; it may be recaptured all or

in part through resale of the property, or through a combination of both.

The variety of the methods of recapture require the various capitalization

techniques.

Remaining

Economic Life

The estimated period during which the improvements will continue to

contribute to a property's value.

Replacement Cost

The cost required to replac

e an existing property with a property that has

equivalent utility.

Reproduction Cost

The cost required to reproduce an exact replica of an existing property.

Residual Techniques

Capitalization techniques (within the income approach) in which an

income a

mount is allocated to a property component of unknown value

after subtracting the income return required by the property component of

known value. This income amount is then capitalized into an estimate of

AH 501 January 2002 152

Term Definition

value of the unknown component.

Reversion

A lump-sum benefit in property that an investor receives or expects to

receive at the termination of an investment.

Reversionary Rights

The rights of the lessor at the expiration of a lease; the estate returned or

due to be returned.

Risk

Uncertainty about the outcome of future events; uncertainty about the

future profitability of investments or projects; the possibility of not

receiving the projected income.

Risk Rate

The annual rate of return on capital that is commensurate with the risk or

uncertainty assumed by the investor; the rate of return or yield required to

attract capital to the level of risk or uncertainty of that investment.

Safe Rate

The minimum rate of return on invested capital. Theoretically, the difference

between the total rate of return and the safe rate is considered a premium to

compensate the investor for risk, the burden of management, and the

illiquidity of the capital invested; also known as the risk-free rate.

Sale Price

The amount of money a buyer agrees to pay and a seller agrees to accept in

an exchange of property rights; sale price is based on a particular

transaction, not necessarily on what the typical buyer would pay or the

typical seller would accept.

Sale Price

Adjustments

A procedure for deriving a value indicator by comparing the property being

appraised to similar properties recently sold, by adjusting the sale prices of

the comparables using elements of comparison.

Salvage Value

The value of property at the end of its economic life in its present use; the

estimated market value for an entire property (e.g., a house) or for a part (or

parts) of a property (e.g., the plumbing fixtures or doors of a house) that is

removed from the premises for use elsewhere.

Scarcity

The present or anticipated under-supply of an item relative to the demand

for it.

Taxable Value

For real property subject to article XIII A of the California Constitution,

the base year full value adjusted for any given lien date as required by law

or the full cash value for the same date, whichever is less, as set forth in

section 51(a). For personal property, the full cash value (market value) on

the lien date each year.

Unit of Comparison

The components into which a property may be divided in order to make

comparisons, e.g., an apartment might be compared by price per apartment

unit, price per room, price per gross square footage, or price per leasable

square footage.

AH 501 January 2002 153

Term Definition

Utility

The capacity of goods to evoke a desire for possession; wantedness; want-

satisfying power.

Value

The power of one commodity to command other commodities in exchange;

a ratio of exchange; present worth of future net benefits.

Weighted Average

An average that is calculated by weighting each component by a factor that

represents its relative importance to the whole, multiplying each component

by its assigned weight, and adding the products; used in the band of

investment method.

Yield

The return on investment.

Yield Capitalization

A capitalization method used to convert future benefits to present value by

discounting each future ben

efit at an appropriate yield rate or by

developing an overall rate that reflects the investment's income pattern,

value change, and yield rate.

Yield Rate

A measure of investment return (usually annualized) that is applied to a

series of incomes to obtain the present value of each; examples are the

interest rate, the discount rate, the internal rate of return, and the equity

yield rate.

AH 501 January 2002 154

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Appraisal Institute. The Appraisal of Real Estate. 11th ed. Chicago: Appraisal Institute, 1996.

Appraisal Institute. The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal. 3rd ed. Chicago: Appraisal

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Betts, Richard M. and Ely, Silas J. Basic Real Estate Appraisal. 2nd ed. Englewood Cliffs, New

Jersey: Regents/Prentice Hall, 1990.

Bonbright, James C. The Valuation of Property, A Treatise on the Appraisal of Property for

Different Legal Purposes. 2 vols. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc., 1937.

Bronfenbrenner, Martin, Sichel, Werner, and Gardner, Wayland. Economics. 3rd ed. Boston:

Houghton Mifflin Company, 1990.

Ehrman, Kenneth A., Esq. and Flavin, Sean, Esq. Taxing California Property. 3rd ed. 3 vols.

New York: Clark Boardman Callaghan, 1989.

Floyd, Charles F. and Allen, Marcus T. Real Estate Principles. 5th ed. Chicago: Dearborn

Financial Publishing, Inc., 1997.

International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO). Property Assessment Valuation.

Chicago: IAAO, 1977.

Kan, James B. and Sirmans, C. F. Real Estate. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company, 1985.

Ratcliff, Richard U. Real Estate Analysis. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc., 1961.

Ring, Alfred A. and Boykin, James H. The Valuation of Real Estate. 3rd ed. Englewood Cliffs,

New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 1986.

Smith, Hulbert C., Tschappat, Carl J., and Racster, Ronald L. Real Estate and Urban

Development. Homewood, Illinois: Richard D. Irwin, Inc., 1973.

Wurtzbach, Charles H. and Miles, Mike E. Modern Real Estate. 4th ed. New York: John Wiley

& Sons, Inc., 1991.