An appraiser is a professional who evaluates the value of properties, assets, or goods. Appraisers are commonly needed in real estate, antiques, art, and business valuation.  Becoming a real estate appraiser is a rewarding career with good income and flexible work options.

Appraisers estimate the value of properties for buying, selling, loans, and taxes. To do this job, you need proper training, a license, and hands-on experience. The process may take time, but it ensures you have the skills to provide accurate property valuations.

There are five main steps to becoming an appraiser: completing required coursework, getting a trainee license, gaining supervised experience, passing the licensing exam, and meeting state requirements.

To become an appraiser, follow these five steps to start your career.

Step 1: Understand the Role of an Appraiser

It is important to understand what appraisers do before becoming one. Appraisers examine properties or items and determine their market value based on location, condition, and market trends. They work with banks, insurance companies, government agencies, and private clients.

There are different types of appraisers, including:

  • Real Estate Appraisers: Evaluate homes, commercial buildings, and land.
  • Personal Property Appraisers: Assess the value of jewelry, art, and antiques.
  • Business Valuation Appraisers: Determine the value of businesses and financial assets.
  • Machinery and Equipment Appraisers: Appraise the value of industrial equipment and machinery.

Step 2: Meet the Education and Training Requirements

Most appraisers need a high school diploma or equivalent, but advanced education can help you succeed. To become a licensed appraiser, you must complete an approved education program. Here are the general requirements:

  • Real Estate Appraisers: Must take courses approved by the Appraisal Qualifications Board (AQB) in the United States.
  • Personal Property and Other Appraisers: May require training in their specific field, such as art history for art appraisers.

Typically, you need to complete 75 to 150 hours of coursework, depending on the type of appraising you want to do. Topics include property valuation, appraisal techniques, and market analysis.

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience

After completing your education, you must work as an appraiser trainee under a licensed appraiser. This hands-on experience helps you learn how to inspect properties, research data, and write reports.

The amount of required experience varies:

  • Trainee Appraisers: Must complete 1,000 to 3,000 hours of supervised experience.
  • Higher-Level Appraisers: You may need more hours to qualify for advanced certifications.

During this phase, you will learn key skills, such as:

  • How to use appraisal software.
  • Understanding legal and ethical guidelines.
  • Communicating valuation findings to clients.

Step 4: Get Licensed or Certified

You must obtain a license once you have completed your education and experience. Licensing requirements vary by state or country, but common steps include:

  • Passing an Exam: Most states require you to pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Examination.
  • Applying for a License: Submit your application to the state appraisal board.
  • Continuing Education: Many states require ongoing education to maintain your license.

There are different levels of certification:

  • Licensed Residential Appraiser – Can appraise non-complex residential properties.
  • Certified Residential Appraiser – Can appraise complex residential properties and higher-value homes.
  • Certified General Appraiser – Can appraise all properties, including commercial buildings.

Step 5: Start Your Career and Grow

After obtaining your license, you can start working as an appraiser. There are several career options available:

  • Work for an Appraisal Firm: Many new appraisers start by working for an established company.
  • Join a Government Agency: Some appraisers work for tax agencies, banks, or insurance companies.
  • Become a Self-Employed Appraiser: Start your own appraisal business and work with private clients.

To grow in your career, consider:

  • Groups like the Appraisal Institute or the American Society of Appraisers offer networking and learning opportunities.
  • Earning advanced certifications and specializing in a niche area can increase your income and job opportunities.
  • Understanding market changes can help you provide accurate valuations.

Conclusion

Becoming an appraiser requires education, training, and licensing, but it can be rewarding. By following these five steps, understanding the role, meeting education requirements, gaining experience, obtaining a license, and growing your career, you can successfully enter the field of appraising. You can build a successful and fulfilling career as an appraiser with dedication and continuous learning.

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