How does effective age differ from chronological age in appraisal?

Effective age is a concept used in property appraisal to provide a more accurate assessment of a property's value by considering its condition and utility rather than just its actual time since construction. While chronological age simply refers to the number of years since a property was built, effective age takes into account factors that can influence how the property functions and how desirable it is in the market.

For example, a property that has been well-maintained or renovated may be evaluated as having a shorter effective age, despite being older chronologically. This is important for appraisers as it directly influences the property’s value—properties that are perceived as newer or in better condition often command higher prices.

In summary, effective age considers the property’s current state, including maintenance level, renovations, and functional utility, which can lead to a different value perception compared to simply relying on chronological age.