Development appraisals: worked examples

There is no prescriptive way to value a property: the approach is down to the valuer.  

But part of a valuer's skill is to stand back and look at the overall answer, rather than rely on a computer programme to tell them what the answer must be.

The worked examples in this section illustrate different scenarios that a valuer may encounter. They are relatively simple, so that the principles and approaches can be easily understood. 

This section is written for those with an understanding of the theory and basic concepts of valuation. It assumes a working knowledge of:

  • discounting
  • compounding and 
  • years purchase (YP).

The examples illustrate different scenarios a valuer may encounter, such as:

Each calculation is clearly set out. The jargon-free commentary highlights points of interest and danger areas.

  • Each example includes a description of the property, along with key facts relevant to the valuation. The approach to the valuation is set out, giving the valuer’s decision and the reasons behind it.
  • The workings can be followed with a simple financial calculator or by using a spreadsheet.
  • Where YP is used, it is worked to three significant figures.
  • Each valuation is rounded to the nearest sensible number – usually to the nearest £10,000 for valuations under £1m.
  • Figures in cashflows are rounded to the nearest £1 for presentation purposes. However, when totalled, the spreadsheet uses the complete number to the nearest 1p. The result is rounded to the nearest £1 again. This may result in small variations but does not affect the overall answer.
  • Purchaser’s costs have been taken to be 1.8% above the relevant rate of Stamp Duty. The rates in effect used are set out in Resources for valuation calculations.

This section is maintained by Ollie Saunders of JLL.