What is the unit of comparison when appraising a single-family residence?

The unit of comparison when appraising a single-family residence is the entire property. In the appraisal process, the aim is to assess the value of the single-family home as a complete unit rather than dissecting it into parts such as individual rooms or features.

Appraisers consider various attributes of the entire property, including its overall size, condition, location, and amenities, as they relate to similar properties in the market. This holistic approach allows professionals to derive a fair market value based on comprehensive comparisons with other single-family homes, hence why the entire property serves as the fundamental unit of comparison in this scenario.

By focusing on the entire property, appraisers can accurately account for how all features contribute to the overall value, rather than isolating and evaluating individual components, which may not represent the property's worth or market perception effectively. Therefore, recognizing that the entire property is the unit of comparison is crucial in establishing a well-rounded appraisal for a single-family residence.