Quality grade (also called construction quality, class, or grade) rates the quality of materials and workmanship in your home's construction. A custom home with premium finishes receives a higher quality grade than a basic builder-grade home, even if they're the same size.
Quality grades typically range from economy/low to luxury/excellent, with most homes falling in average or above-average categories. This rating affects your improvement value in the cost approach—higher quality means higher replacement cost and higher assessed value.
Unlike condition (which changes over time), quality grade reflects how the home was built. However, districts sometimes overstate quality, treating standard finishes as premium or assuming upgrades that don't exist.
Quality grade errors happen when the district assumes your home is nicer than it actually is—often based on neighborhood or age rather than actual inspection.
Signs quality grade may be overstated:
• Builder-grade finishes rated as "good" or "excellent"
• Standard construction treated as custom
• Grade matches neighborhood but not your specific home
• No upgrades but rated as upgraded
Evidence for lower quality grade:
• Photos of standard finishes (laminate vs. hardwood)
• Builder specifications if available
• Comparison to homes that justify higher grades
• Original features, no premium upgrades
Don't let your modest home be taxed like a luxury one.
Quality grade classifications:
Typical grades (vary by district):
• Economy/Low: Basic materials, minimal features
• Fair: Below-average construction, simple finishes
• Average: Standard builder-grade, typical for area
• Good: Above-average materials, some upgrades
• Excellent: Premium finishes, custom features
• Luxury: Highest quality, custom construction
What quality grade considers:
• Construction materials (framing, foundation)
• Exterior finishes (siding, roofing, windows)
• Interior finishes (flooring, cabinets, fixtures)
• Architectural complexity
• Special features (built-ins, millwork)
Value impact:
Moving from "average" to "good" might add 15-25% to improvement value.
Quality grade reflects how the home was built—materials and construction quality. Condition reflects current state—wear, tear, maintenance. A high-quality home can be in poor condition (luxury home needing repairs), and an average-quality home can be in excellent condition (well-maintained basic home).
Check your property record card from the appraisal district. Quality or grade is typically listed with construction details. It may use letter codes (A, B, C), descriptions (Excellent, Good, Average), or numerical ratings. Ask the district to explain their coding system.
Potentially. Major upgrades (kitchen with premium finishes, high-end additions) might justify a quality grade increase. However, cosmetic updates typically don't change the underlying construction quality. The district may or may not adjust grade based on permits or inspections.