What is a major disadvantage of the allocation method?

The allocation method is primarily used in real estate to determine the value contribution of various components of a property, such as land and improvements, by analyzing their proportions within a larger market context. A significant disadvantage of this method is that it often results in the generation of averages. These averages can oversimplify the complexities of real estate value, especially when unique or highly varied properties are being evaluated. Because averages may not accurately reflect the true value of individual properties or specific features, relying solely on this method could lead to misestimations and a lack of precision in appraisals.

For instance, if a property has unusual features or is located in a rapidly changing market, average figures derived from the allocation method may not capture unique qualities or market conditions that significantly affect value. Thus, while averages can provide a broad overview, they can also mask the specific characteristics that might drive value higher or lower for a particular property.