In appraisal assignments, can an appraiser make judgments based solely on the property type?

An appraiser's judgments in appraisal assignments must adhere to standards that promote fair and equitable practices. The principle that makes the answer valid is rooted in the ethos of non-discrimination and the requirement to base judgments on objective, relevant property data rather than characteristics that could lead to bias, such as race or demographics.

The appraiser should rely on facts related to the physical attributes of the property, market conditions, and comparable sales. This approach ensures that the appraisal process is impartial and legally compliant with regulations such as the Fair Housing Act. By emphasizing a race-neutral criterion in their judgments, appraisers help foster an environment of fairness in real estate that is essential for ethical practice and compliance with appraiser standards.

While the other options hint at various considerations, they fail to maintain that essential commitment to neutrality. Proper appraisal practice requires a clear focus on data and property characteristics without allowing personal or societal biases to affect professional judgment.