National Real Estate Practice Exam

What does market value primarily represent?

1. The price set by the seller

2. An estimate of potential future price

3. An estimate of probably price on appraisal date

4. The minimum price accepted by the buyer

The correct answer is: An estimate of probably price on appraisal date

Market value primarily represents an estimate of the likely price that a property would sell for on a specific date, given current market conditions, comparable sales, and other relevant factors. This estimation is crucial for both buyers and sellers as it considers what a willing buyer would pay and a willing seller would accept in an open and competitive market. Real estate appraisers use various methods to arrive at an opinion of market value, including the sales comparison approach, the cost approach, and the income approach. These methods rely on the analysis of comparable properties and market trends to assess what the property is worth at that particular point in time. The key aspect here is that market value provides a realistic snapshot based on current data rather than an anticipated future scenario or historical pricing. Other options reflect differing perspectives: the price set by the seller or the minimum price accepted by the buyer do not necessarily align with prevailing market trends and can be subjective based on individual circumstances. An estimate of potential future price hints at speculative value rather than the concrete assessment of value at the present time. Hence, the estimate of probable price on the appraisal date is the most accurate representation of market value.