What is the term for an increase in property value over time?

The term for an increase in property value over time is appreciation. Appreciation refers to the growth in the value of an asset, such as real estate, often due to various factors including improvements in the property, overall economic conditions, demand in the housing market, and location desirability. Understanding appreciation is crucial for both buyers and investors, as it directly affects potential profit and investment returns.

Depreciation, in contrast, refers to a decrease in property value, which can occur due to factors like physical wear and tear or changes in the market. Amortization relates to the gradual repayment of debt over time, typically in reference to loans and financing rather than value appreciation. Valuation is a broader term that encompasses the process of determining a property's worth at a specific point in time, which may account for both appreciation and depreciation. In the context of this question, appreciation is clearly the most accurate description of an increase in property value over time.