appraisals

Clarifying Copyright

Clarifying Copyright (by Someone Who Knows) by Tim Vining, MAI As the appraiser who brought suit in federal court for copyright, I wish to address and clarify some comments made in writing in other appraisal industry publications. Whether you realize it or not, once pen is put to paper the author has copyright protection. In...… Read More

Copyright Controversy Flares Up (Again)

Editor’s Note: As the copyright controversy simmers, WRE takes another look- making source documents available and reporting that appraisers are not alone in grappling with this issue: agents, inspectors and surveyors also have an interest in copyright protection and controlling work product. And there is the issue of AVMs and the prospect of a landscape… Read More

Fighting Fraud: Digital Security on Appraisals

Editor’s Note: WRE reported last issue that according to the FBI, state regulators and appraisers themselves, fraud and identity theft are rampant throughout the industry (Best of Show, Feb. 2006). One fraud prevention expert told us that thieves don’t even need your digital signature to fabricate an appraisal in your name; all they need is...… Read More

Fannie Offers Cert #23 “Fix”

Fannie offers Cert #23 “Fix” By David Brauner, Editor WRE Just days after the new forms took effect and in the midst of widespread confusion and fear among appraisers nationwide regarding their increasing liability and responsibility under the new forms, and especially Cert. #23 (Intended User), Fannie Mae’s Mark Simpson, speaking to appraisers at Valuation...… Read More

Survey Results: Relocation Appraisals Trending Up

Survey Results: Relocation Appraisals Trending Up by Tina Lung, Vice President of Operations and Technology Worldwide ERC® According to a recent study and market trends reported by appraisers nationwide, now is a good time to move into relocation appraising. Appraisers coast to coast are reporting increased demand for relocation appraisals, which they attribute to higher...… Read More

Live and Learn: Complaints, Errors, Actions

Live and Learn Complaints, Errors, Actions Blue Grass Missteps Larry Disney, Executive Director, Kentucky Real Estate Appraisers Board says that approximately 95 percent of all Kentucky complaints are real property appraisal assignments of one-four unit properties. He says the reasons for complaints vary but the most frequent violations are one of the following. * Not...… Read More