Which statement correctly distinguishes general data from specific data?

• A. General data includes data on economic, political, social and physical forces affecting the real estate values in the region
• B. General data includes data that relates to the subject property and the comparable used in the appraisal
• C. General data is more detailed than specific data
• D. Specific data affects only local zoning

Answer: (A)

In appraisal practice, general data describes broad market conditions that influence values across a region, while specific data focuses on the subject property and its particular comps. The statement that general data includes economic, political, social and physical forces affecting real estate values in the region is correct because these factors operate at a market level and shape trends and price levels for many properties, not just one.

The other ideas mix up scope: data related to the subject property and the comparables is specific data, not general. General data isn’t more detailed; it’s broader and less granular, whereas specific data goes into the details of a property. And specific data isn’t limited to local zoning; it also covers many property-specific attributes like size, condition, age, sales history, and how the subject compares to other properties.