What should appraisers provide to substantiate the use of certain subjective terms?

The use of subjective terms in an appraisal necessitates a solid foundation to ensure credibility and accuracy. Appraisers are expected to provide statistical data and factual context to substantiate their assessments. This data might include market trends, comparable sales data, and other objective metrics that can help back up claims made about property values or characteristics.

By using statistical data, appraisers can offer a tangible basis for their conclusions, enabling stakeholders to understand the reasoning behind subjective assessments. This approach promotes transparency and aligns with the ethical standards and practices outlined in the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), which require appraisers to support their opinions with reliable evidence.

In contrast, anecdotal evidence, personal opinions, and emotional testimonials lack the objectivity necessary for professional appraisal work. Such sources do not provide the reliable backing that is crucial for establishing credibility in the appraisal process. Therefore, the focus on statistical data and factual context is essential for demonstrating the validity of subjective terms used in appraisals.