Which of the following is a primary focus of the income approach to appraisal?

The primary focus of the income approach to appraisal is the potential income a property can generate. This approach is based on the premise that the value of a property is largely determined by its ability to produce income for the owner. Appraisers use this approach mainly for income-producing properties such as rental apartments, office buildings, and shopping centers.

In this method, appraisers typically analyze the expected income the property can earn, often factoring in vacancy rates, operating expenses, and the capitalization rate to estimate the property's value. This income projection reflects the financial returns that an investor can expect, making it a crucial aspect of the appraisal process for investment properties.

The other options, while related to the overall appraisal process, do not align with the specific focus of the income approach. Replacement cost estimation pertains to determining the cost to replace the structure itself, which is central to the cost approach. Recent sales comparisons are integral to the sales comparison approach, emphasizing how similar properties have sold in the market. Construction costs involve estimating the expenses related to building a property, a consideration that is relevant for new constructions but not directly tied to the income-generating potential of an existing property.