The Real Estate Encyclopedia & Blog

Utility

by | Feb 15, 2026

In real estate appraisal, utility refers to the ability of a property to provide satisfaction or to meet the needs and desires of potential users. It reflects the usefulness and functionality of the property for its intended purpose.

Utility is a fundamental element of value, as a property must be useful in order to have market demand. Factors such as location, design, layout, and permitted uses all influence a property’s utility and, consequently, its market value.