What approach to appraisal is recommended for a manufactured home that hasn't been placed on a foundation?

The cost approach is particularly recommended for appraising a manufactured home that hasn't been placed on a foundation due to several key factors. This method estimates the value based on the cost to replace or reproduce the home, minus any depreciation. Since the home is not yet affixed to a permanent foundation, its valuation is more accurately represented by its physical attributes and the costs associated with its installation rather than by market activity or rental income potential.

In the case of manufactured homes, the cost approach can provide a clearer picture of worth by considering the price of the materials, labor, and installation costs necessary to prepare the home for use. This is crucial when the home is not yet fully integrated into the real estate market, which often happens before it is set on a foundation. Moreover, appraisers often consider the depreciation of the unit, factoring in age and condition, to derive an appropriate value based on costs.

Other methods like the income or sales comparison approaches might not provide a clear indication of value for a manufactured home in this particular situation. The income approach is typically used for properties that generate rental income, which is not applicable here. Similarly, the sales comparison approach relies on comparables in the market, which could be less relevant for a manufactured home yet to be set