Making adjustments

Adjustments account for the real differences between a comparable and the subject. Done well they are easy to follow; done loosely they are one of the most common reasons a report draws questions.

Apply adjustments for the things that actually move value between a comp and the subject — living area, condition, location, and the like — rather than to force a number toward a target.

Every adjustment should rest on reasoning another professional could follow. Reviewers watch the size of total adjustments closely, both gross and net, so unsupported or oversized adjustments are a frequent flag. A brief, sound basis for each one is the best defense.