Real Estate Appraiser Training – Education

Why Value is Not an Exact Number

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Editor’s Note: Here is some food for thought from regular contributor and Mobile Appraising Training Package author, Dustin Harris. His suggestion makes sense from a valuation perspective and also might release some of the pressure on appraisers to “hit the number.” The OREP/WRE Appraiser Independence Survey has over 1,000 respondents and hundreds of comments. We… Read More

Will Appraiser Bond Requirement Put You Out of Business?

S.2452 is a bill intended to “amend the Truth in Lending Act to provide protection to consumers with respect to certain high-cost loans, and for other purposes.” Among other things, it’s intended to establish a duty for mortgage brokers and lenders to consider the best interests of their clients first. Lenders will be required to… Read More

Trainee Trouble: Who’s Training Who?

While the villain in last issue’s story “Identity Theft-Appraiser Style” happens to be a trainee, employee dishonesty is not the only reason appraisers refuse to take on trainees. Veteran appraisers wanting to give back to the profession by mentoring also report that the system is getting in their way. By now, issues that discourage mentors are… Read More

Understanding Your Market

Editor’s note: Expert knowledge of your local market is key to expanding your practice into consulting and review assignments. Many banks and national appraisal firms employ “sub-contracted” independent appraisers for administrative reviews. According to the author, knowing your local market will helps you understand potential factors affecting future sales prices, instead of relying entirely on historic sales. Understanding...… Read More

Cost Approach: Why Sidestepping it Can be Costly

Cost Approach Why Sidestepping it Can be Costly By Gretchen Gary and Richard Vishanoff “I don’t like using the cost approach. It’s too time consuming. Market-based appraisals are always more reliable. Besides, I’m not required to include the cost approach in my appraisals. It’s not relevant anymore.” Sound familiar? If you’re skipping the cost approach,...… Read More

Appraising Disaster: When the Levee Breaks Part II

Appraising Disasters: When the Levee Breaks Part II: Real Work Begins By David Phillips, SRA As the date for the inspections drew closer, we enlisted the help of the Village Clerk.  She was an invaluable partner in the process because she had addresses and phone numbers for most residents.  After the flood, many residents went...… Read More