Which method of determining adjustments in the sales comparison approach cannot be used to assess market conditions over time?

The method that cannot be used to assess market conditions over time is depreciated cost. This approach focuses on determining the value of a property based on the cost of replacing it with a new one, minus any depreciation. It is primarily used to estimate the current value of a property based on its physical and functional obsolescence rather than observing market trends over time.

On the other hand, the sales comparison approach directly analyzes comparable sales transactions to derive adjustments. Using methods like replacement cost and the market extraction method, appraisers can evaluate how market conditions fluctuate over different periods, including appreciation or depreciation trends. The income approach also factors in how market conditions impact income generation, which indirectly reflects over time.

Understanding that depreciated cost is more static and based on the intrinsic value of a property, rather than external market trends, clarifies why it is not suitable for assessing changes in market conditions over time.