Which of the following is NOT classified as a method of financing?

The correct answer is "D. Property value assessment" because it refers to the process of determining the market value of a property rather than a method of financing. A property value assessment is typically conducted by appraisers to estimate the worth of a property based on various factors such as location, condition, amenities, and comparable sales in the area.

In contrast, cash, hard money, and private money are all recognized methods of financing real estate transactions. Cash represents the simplest form of funding where the buyer pays the full purchase price upfront without needing a loan. Hard money loans are short-term loans secured by real estate, typically offered by private investors or companies, often at higher interest rates. Private money refers to loans made by individuals or groups that are not traditional lenders, allowing more flexibility in terms and conditions. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in real estate transactions, as they directly affect how a property can be financed.