Certified Residential Appraiser Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a Special Use Property?

1. Shopping mall

2. Residential home

3. School

4. Office building

The correct answer is: School

A Special Use Property refers to a type of real estate that is designed and designated for a specific purpose that may not fit within the standard classifications of commercial or residential properties. Schools exemplify this concept as they serve a unique function within the community, providing educational services that are essential for public welfare. Unlike typical residential homes or general commercial properties, schools often have specific zoning requirements due to their large gatherings of people and their public service nature. This makes them distinct from shopping malls, which primarily serve retail purposes, office buildings that are used for business operations, and residential homes that cater to private living spaces. The categorization of schools as Special Use Properties underscores their role and importance in the community, as they need to be accessible and are often subject to different regulations regarding their use and location.