is the single date (point in time) for which the value estimate is effective and it is valid for that one day (point in time) only. Real estate markets are constantly changing and factors affecting value are dynamic. The effective date establishes the economic framework in place on the valuation date and is necessary to make the value estimate valid. The effective date of an appraisal can be for sometime in the past (retrospective), a current date, or some date in the future (prospective) – relative to the date of the report. The effective date is determined by the client. A common retrospective appraisal would be for an estate appraisal and the effective date is usually the date of death. If the property was repaired after the death or the area went through some changes the appraiser must factor in those elements to determine the accurate value on the effective date.