Which of the following factors does NOT determine whether property is considered real or personal?

The factor that does not determine whether property is considered real or personal is the original cost. In real estate, the classification of property as real or personal hinges on characteristics such as adaptability, method of attachment, and the intent of the owner.

Adaptability refers to how well a property can be used for various purposes, indicating if an item is a fixture (real property). The method of attachment involves whether an item is permanently attached to the property, which is a key factor in identifying it as real estate; for example, built-in appliances are generally considered part of the real property. The intent of the owner is critical, as it reflects what the owner intends when installing or using an item; if it is meant to be a permanent part of the property, it is likely deemed real property.

In contrast, the original cost of an item has no bearing on whether it is classified as real or personal property. Cost may affect valuation but does not influence the legal classification of property in terms of being real or personal. Thus, it stands apart from the other determining factors.