In developing a sales comparison approach under USPAP, what must the appraiser do with data available to indicate a value conclusion?

• A. Analyze such data as are available to indicate a value conclusion
• B. Ignore data outside the subject property market
• C. Use only the data that support the appraiser's preferred value
• D. Create new data when existing data are insufficient

Answer: (A)

When developing a sales comparison approach, you must evaluate all data that could influence value and use it to form a credible conclusion. This means gathering relevant market information—comparable sales, current listings, price trends, and any external factors affecting value—and analyzing it to understand how differences between the subject and comparables should be adjusted. The goal is to synthesize the data available to indicate a value conclusion that reflects the market reality, not to ignore data or tailor the result to a preconceived outcome. If data are insufficient, disclose limitations and consider alternative approaches rather than creating or fabricating data.