4.4.2.1. Comparability.A sale’s comparability “is largely a function of three variables: characteristics of the properties, their geographic proximity to one another, and the time differential.”445 The significance of different elements of comparison will vary with the type of property being appraised and the relevant market. For example, as the Sixth Circuit explained:

On the point of similarity in character and locality, obviously if part of an allotment is condemned, sales, in order to be evidence of market value, should be of lots either within the immediate vicinity or very close. But when large areas of open country are involved, similarity of character and locality depends not upon mere propinquity. The character of such land situated several miles from land condemned may well be more comparable than that within a few hundred feet.446