Which method is most commonly used for estimating costs in mass appraisal?

The comparative unit method is the most commonly used technique for estimating costs in mass appraisal. This approach involves determining the average cost per unit of construction or square footage for properties in a given area, allowing assessors to apply this cost to similar properties. It simplifies the appraisal process by utilizing broad data samples to derive cost estimates based on typical costs of construction or renovation.

This method is particularly effective in mass appraisal, where the goal is to evaluate a large number of properties efficiently. By relying on empirical data from comparable properties, assessors can quickly establish a value that reflects current market conditions without needing to conduct a detailed analysis for each individual property. This efficiency is crucial for tax assessment purposes, where large inventories of properties need to be appraised regularly.

When considering the other methods, while the factor method and income method also provide valuable insights in specific situations, they are less frequently applied in mass appraisal compared to the comparative unit method. The sales comparison approach focuses on the sale prices of similar properties to estimate value, which is more subjective and may not provide the uniformity needed for mass appraisal, where uniformity and broad applicability are key requirements.