Which property valuation method considers the income generated by the property?

The income approach is a property valuation method that specifically focuses on the income that a property can generate, making it particularly relevant for investment properties. This method estimates the value of a property based on the income it produces, typically through rental income. By analyzing the expected net operating income (NOI) and applying a capitalization rate, appraisers can derive a value that reflects the property's income potential.

This approach is especially useful for commercial real estate or any property intended to generate revenue, as it provides a direct correlation between the property's cash flow and its market value. In contrast, other valuation methods like the cost approach focus on the cost to replace the property, and the sales comparison approach relies on recent sales of similar properties, neither of which directly considers the income aspect. The market value approach is a broader term that generally incorporates various methods to estimate property value but does not specifically emphasize income generation. Thus, the income approach stands out as the only method intended to evaluate the worth of a property based on its ability to generate income.