Editor’s Note: In this story, appraiser John Lifflander explains the roles played by the Feds, brokers/lenders and yes, appraisers, in getting us into the lending “meltdown.” The story is reprinted with permission from Fair and Equitable magazine, published by IAAO (International Association of Assessing Officers). Rise and Fall of Real Estate Values by John Lifflander,…
Read More
Editor’s Note: This story, one of several recent instances of lone appraisers fighting back in court, is further proof that the tide is turning for appraisers: consider the spate of legislative reform now under consideration to support appraiser independence- as reported in the current WRE, and the stunning Fannie/Cuomo agreement, which while flawed, is a...…
Read More
Editor’s Note: You’ll find Part Two of this story at WorkingRE.com (Premium Content). From Appraising to Consulting By Robert K. Bell, Jr., MAI (retired) Many appraisers can convert residential form reporting assignments to consulting assignments with some know how. Many of our appraisals should be labeled appraisal consulting reports, since they give a market value...…
Read More
Editor’s Note: In Part One, Bob Bell, MAI (retired) explains how appraisers can convert residential form reporting assignments to higher-paying consulting assignments with just a little know how. “Many of our appraisals should be labeled appraisal consulting reports, since they give a market value and solve problem questions in the Highest and Best Use section...…
Read More
Editor’s Note: While coping with too much business is not a problem for many appraisers at this point in the business cycle, these valuable tips will help you work harder and smarter. $300,000 a Year Appraising Revisited (again) Joe Paris, IFA, GRI I read the Readers Response to the $300,000 a year appraiser in the…
Read More
Editor’s Note: Who would have guessed that the Cost Approach would stir such emotions among appraisers nationwide? WRE received a sizable and emotional response to Cost Approach: Why Sidestepping it Can be Costly (WRE Online, Vol. 9). Significant Change to Cost Handbook by Marcos Campos, MAI, SRA A small change was made on page two...…
Read More
Making AMCs Work for You by David Brauner, Editor Here’s a story about one appraiser who makes working for AMCs work for him. Many appraisers choose not to work for Appraiser Management Companies (AMCs) because, they complain, the top priority of AMCs is getting appraisals fast and cheap– with quality a distant second. This story...…
Read More
Defensive Appraising in a Declining Market By John Lifflander, ASA As market conditions continue to decline, appraising has become more difficult and potentially perilous. Consequently, it has never been more imperative for appraisers to prepare reports in a way that will hold up to meticulous scrutiny. Properties that are selling or being refinanced now may...…
Read More
New Qualifications/USPAP Explained by David Brauner, Editor If you’ve been busy making a living, perhaps you missed or forgot that important changes to appraiser qualifications and to the Uniform Standards of Professional Practice (USPAP) took effect January 1, 2008. Here is a brief overview of the changes with rational provided by John S. Brenan, Director…
Read More
Editor’s Note: Coast to coast appraisers are thinking: “I told you so.” Many predicted that unchecked lender pressure and other shenanigans during the refi-boom, sooner or later, would have its consequences. Some said it would be another Savings and Loan-type crisis, with taxpayers footing the bill- again. What we are in the midst of may…
Read More