assumes conditions that are contrary to what is known to exist, but is assumed for the purposes of appraisal analysis. The use of hypothetical conditions is covered in USPAP Standards Rule 1-2(g).

An appraiser may need to determine the commercial value of a property that is currently zoned residential. The appraiser knows it is not zoned commercial but proceeds assuming the zoning can change, the assumption is contrary to what exists and is a hypothetical condition.