Module 3 — Property Evaluation Form Instruction Booklet
This booklet explains how to use the Property Evaluation Tool — a quantitative, chart-based rating system that helps a purchaser evaluate property against a range of land-use and building preferences, producing a numerical Acceptability Quotient (A/Q) for objective comparison.
How the Tool - Works
Organized as a chart, the Tool grades vacant land and acreage and scores each characteristic as a numerical Acceptability Quotient. It rates both your personal aesthetic preferences — proximity to shopping, schools, work, views, or privacy — and the home- and site-development factors that influence the cost of completing your project.
Powering the Tool
Every tool needs a power source; this one draws its power from the Property Location and Purchase Price entered at the top of the chart. Once both are entered and judged acceptable, select “Yes to Consider” and the evaluation begins. If you already own the property, the Tool can still be used to evaluate home placement and construction-cost impacts.
Scoring the Chart
Once activated, the Tool highlights the categories that contribute to a lot’s Acceptability Quotient. Score each characteristic on a 1-to-8 scale — 1 being least acceptable, 8 being most — based on how well it reflects your preferences and concerns. The Tool then produces a composite value showing how favorable the property’s researched characteristics are for purchase or development.
Recalibrating for Your Priorities
The Tool can be recalibrated to reflect what matters most to you. For example, if you value location — a private setting, great views, close to shopping, value-priced — over the development costs that raise building expense (long driveways, added utility installations, marginal soil), you can adjust the value settings accordingly. Recalibration typically lowers the overall A/Q when higher site-development costs are given greater weight. Use it with care, and only if you have the resources to absorb the extra costs involved.