Definition
Existing Use Value (EUV) is a concept in property and asset valuation that represents the price at which a property can be sold on the open market, assuming only its current use and vacant possession. This term is commonly used in real estate and financial reporting to ascertain the value of properties under specific, ongoing usage conditions without considering alternative uses that could potentially alter its valuation.
Examples
-
Commercial Office Building:
- Scenario: A commercial office building in a city center is currently leased as office space.
- EUV: The EUV will consider the building as continued office space and estimate its open market value based on similar properties currently used as offices in the vicinity.
-
Agricultural Land:
- Scenario: A piece of land is currently being used for farming.
- EUV: The EUV will reflect the value of the land based on its existing use as farmland, excluding potential uses like commercial development or residential housing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How is Existing Use Value different from Market Value?
- A1: The Market Value of a property considers the highest and best use of the property, which can include potential alternative uses. In contrast, the Existing Use Value strictly evaluates the property based on its current use.
Q2: Is EUV applicable in all property valuations?
- A2: EUV is specifically useful for properties in contexts where existing use is relevant, such as in regulatory and financial reporting requirements. However, for development properties, the Market Value might be more pertinent.
Q3: Can EUV be higher than Market Value?
- A3: Typically, EUV is lower or equal to Market Value because it does not account for various potential uses that may increase a property’s value.
Q4: Does EUV consider rental income?
- A4: Yes, EUV considers rental income generated from existing usage, assuming the property remains in its current state and usage.
- Market Value: The estimated amount for which an asset or liability should exchange on the valuation date between a willing buyer and willing seller in an arm’s length transaction.
- Highest and Best Use (HBU): The reasonably likely and legal use of a property that is physically possible, appropriately supported, financially feasible, and results in the highest value.
- Vacant Possession: A property condition where the property is empty, unoccupied, and available to be sold or leased without any tenants or personal belongings.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Real Estate Valuation Theory” by Ko Wang and Marvin L. Wolverton
- “Property Valuation Techniques” by David Isaac and John O’Leary
- “International Valuation Standards: A Guide to the Valuation of Real Property Assets” by David Parker
Accounting Basics: “Existing Use Value (EUV)” Fundamentals Quiz
### What does Existing Use Value (EUV) primarily assess?
- [ ] The potential market value of the property after development.
- [ ] The value depending on the property's location.
- [x] The value based on the property's current use and vacant possession.
- [ ] The highest price a property can reach.
> **Explanation:** Existing Use Value (EUV) assesses the value of a property based exclusively on its current use and the assumption that it is vacant, without considering alternative uses.
### Under EUV, what assumption is made about the property?
- [ ] That it is occupied by long-term tenants.
- [ ] That it is subject to commercial redevelopment.
- [ ] That it is in excellent physical condition.
- [x] That there is vacant possession.
> **Explanation:** The EUV assumes that the property has vacant possession, meaning it is unoccupied and available for sale or use as per its existing status.
### How is EUV different from Market Value?
- [x] EUV is based on current use only, while Market Value considers the highest and best use.
- [ ] EUV always generates a higher value than Market Value.
- [ ] EUV is applicable only to residential properties.
- [ ] Market Value is only for leased properties.
> **Explanation:** EUV considers the value based strictly on current usage, whereas Market Value evaluates the property based on its highest and best possible use.
### For what type of property valuation is EUV particularly relevant?
- [ ] Development land.
- [x] Properties needed for financial reporting.
- [ ] Derelict land.
- [ ] Converted industrial buildings.
> **Explanation:** EUV is particularly relevant in financial reporting and regulatory contexts where properties are assessed based on ongoing usage conditions.
### Does EUV take into account potential future uses of a property?
- [x] No, it only considers the current use.
- [ ] Yes, it includes all potential future uses.
- [ ] Only if it pertains to a commercial property.
- [ ] Only if it pertains to mineral extraction.
> **Explanation:** EUV strictly evaluates the property based on its current use and does not consider alternative or future uses that could impact its value.
### Why is vacant possession an important assumption in EUV?
- [ ] It means the property is ready for immediate redevelopment.
- [x] It ensures the property is valued in its current empty state.
- [ ] It affects the local infrastructure development.
- [ ] It increases the property's future industrial use potential.
> **Explanation:** Vacant possession ensures that the property is valued based on its current, unoccupied state, eliminating the influence of current tenants or users.
### Which factor predominantly defines the Existing Use Value of agricultural land?
- [ ] Variety of crops grown.
- [ ] Proximity to urban centers.
- [ ] The size of the land.
- [x] Its current use as farmland.
> **Explanation:** The Existing Use Value of agricultural land is defined by its current use as farmland, reflecting its value within this existing context.
### What does EUV exclude when appraising a property?
- [ ] Maintenance costs.
- [ ] Market trends.
- [x] Alternative potential uses.
- [ ] Current rental income.
> **Explanation:** EUV excludes alternative potential uses and focuses solely on the property's value considering its current and continued use.
### Can EUV be used for properties intended for future residential conversion?
- [x] No, EUV is not intended for properties assessed for future conversions.
- [ ] Yes, always.
- [ ] Only if certain regulatory conditions are met.
- [ ] Only in urban areas.
> **Explanation:** EUV is intended for properties evaluated based on their current use, not for those considered for future conversions or alternative uses.
### Which of the following real estate valuation categories usually applies EUV?
- [ ] Residential sales.
- [ ] Industrial land purchases.
- [ ] Property development projects.
- [x] Financial reporting for current assets.
> **Explanation:** EUV is often employed in financial reporting to assess the value of current assets based on their ongoing use, maintaining consistency with the property's existing function.
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