If an appraiser spends less time inspecting a tract home compared to a custom-built home, does this indicate impermissible disparate treatment?

The rationale for saying that differences in properties justify the approach is grounded in the principles of sound appraisal practice. Each property is unique, with varying features and complexities, which naturally influences the amount of time and effort required during an inspection.

Tract homes typically have standardized designs and layouts, which can make them less complex and more straightforward to assess than custom-built homes, which often have unique characteristics, premium materials, and various individual features that require a more thorough evaluation. Therefore, spending less time on a tract home compared to a custom-built home does not suggest impermissible disparate treatment; rather, it reflects the differences in the properties that warrant differing amounts of inspection time. This approach aligns with the appraisal standards, which emphasize the importance of tailoring the appraisal process to the specific characteristics of each property rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method.

This distinction underscores the importance of being responsive to the particulars of each type of property in the appraisal process, emphasizing that appraisers can and should use their professional judgment to allocate their time based on the complexities involved in each appraisal assignment.