What does the term "zoning" refer to in real estate?

The term "zoning" in real estate primarily refers to the regulation of land use established by local government authorities. This process involves dividing a municipality into different areas or zones, each designated for specific uses, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. The purpose of zoning is to organize urban growth, enhance public safety, and ensure that land development aligns with the community's goals and needs.

Zoning regulations can dictate a variety of factors, including the types of buildings permitted, their height, density, and the acceptable uses of the land. It serves to manage how land is utilized in a way that is harmonious with the surrounding environment, ultimately affecting property values and community planning.

The other options do not accurately describe zoning. For instance, calculating property taxes relates to the fiscal responsibilities associated with property ownership but does not dictate land use. Assessing market trends pertains to analyzing real estate prices and demand, while negotiation tactics are strategies employed during real estate transactions but do not involve regulatory frameworks of land use like zoning does.