What is meant by "market value"?

Market value refers to the most probable price a property would sell for in a competitive and open market, assuming that both the buyer and seller are acting in their own best interests, are well-informed, and have reasonable time to negotiate. This concept is grounded in the principles of supply and demand, where the market value reflects the price that an average buyer is willing to pay and an average seller is willing to accept under normal circumstances.

This definition encapsulates the essence of real estate transactions, as it is the price that transactions are typically based on, rather than artificial figures influenced by individual desires or specific tax assessments. Market value is a critical concept for real estate professionals, as it helps tools such as appraisals and comparative market analyses derive estimates that accurately reflect current market conditions.

In contrast, the other options either present subjective views (like a seller's desired price) or criterion values for different purposes (such as the assessed value for taxes), which do not necessarily align with what the property would fetch in an actual sale scenario. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective real estate practice and navigating the market successfully.