How can I become a real estate appraiser?

How to become a real estate appraiser?

• Answer:

  It has now become extremely difficult to become an appraiser and if your state requires the optional license of "Trainee Appraiser", then it will be almost impossible to enter the profession unless you are closely related to someone. There is typically 4 license levels which are the following: Trainee Appraiser (state optional), State Licensed, Certified Residential and Certified General. The states have the option to set up their own educational and experience requirements for Trainee Appraisers and State Licensed Appraisers. States are not required to have Trainee Appraisers and can start new people out as a State Licensed Appraiser. The states do not have a choice on the minimum experience and education required for Certified Residential and Certified General appraisers. The minimum requirements for Certified Residential and Certified General Appraisers are set by a quasi private organization "The Appraisal Foundation" which the "Appraisal Subcommittee" in a way created. Trainee Appraiser (State Optional)- States are not required to start licenses out as a trainee appraiser or even have this as a license, however some have made this a requirement. The states that have made this a requirement, have virtually made it impossible for new people to enter the profession due to the fact it is extremely difficult for new people to find a supervisor appraiser to take them on, so they can get experience. Some appraisers who are qualified to take on trainee's won't because the state licensing board may punish them for mistakes the trainee may make. In addition the system can be viewed by appraisers as “training their competition.” State Licensed - States can set the minimum guidelines and the requirements may vary drastically from state to state. States that allow those just entering the appraisal field that have the appropriate education and pass the state exam is optimal. However some states require new state licensed appraisers to have experience, if your state requires experience then you will most likely need to start out by getting your Appraiser Trainee license and take on the grueling task of trying to find someone to supervise you. If your state requires experience, call your state legislator and voice your concern of the potential monopoly that has been created in your state by making it nearly impossible for new people to get into the business. Certified Residential - You need at a minimum 200 educational hours and some college level classes to become a "Certified Residential" appraiser. In addition you need at least 2,500 hours of experience. Your state may have tougher guidelines. Certified General - You need at a minimum 300 educational hours and some college level classes to become a "Certified General" appraiser. In addition you need at least 3,000 hours of experience. Your state may have tougher guidelines.