What premise must an appraiser avoid when forming an opinion of value?

The premise that an appraiser must avoid when forming an opinion of value is the racial homogeneity of occupants. This principle aligns with the guidelines set forth by the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. When appraising a property, it is crucial that the appraiser maintains an objective viewpoint that is free from bias related to the demographics of the area. Integrating the racial composition of a neighborhood into an appraisal can lead to discriminatory practices and devaluing properties based on demographics rather than actual market factors such as supply and demand, property condition, or comparable sales.

In contrast, factors such as the economic status of the neighborhood, the architectural style of the property, and the age of the inhabitants can legitimately influence property value and appraisal decisions, as they relate to market trends, demand for certain types of homes, and overall market condition analysis.