What Does a Real Estate Appraiser Do?

Real estate appraiser is one of SkillPointe's top jobs that don't require a bachelor's degree. Still, any job worth doing is going to take some effort! Requirements to become an appraiser vary by state and even by city. First, investigate the requirements where you want to work, but keep these general steps in mind.

In some cities and states, only a high school diploma or equivalent is required. In other states, an associate or bachelor’s degree may be required.

In general, most prospective appraisers take a 12-month training course that includes instruction and on-the-job training. In some states, this may include becoming an appraiser trainee. 

The Appraisal Qualifications Board (AQB) sets national course criteria. Even in a state that has different rules, the courses must meet or exceed the AQB's minimum standards.

After completing the course, assessors must pass an exam and work a set number of hours to earn a state license. In some states, the trainee must work with a supervisor or mentor before taking this step.

In most states, appraisers are certified and licensed. The Appraisal Foundation is a helpful resource for understanding the laws where you want to appraise property. The site maintains a list of state appraiser regulatory agencies. Check your state's licensing board for specific certification requirements. Above all, remember even where licensing and/or certification is not required, earning these credentials will likely increase your salary and will certainly increase your client's confidence in your abilities.

There are four federal appraiser classifications that require specific training and education and determine what type of property an appraiser can assess:

• Licensed Trainee Appraiser
• Licensed Residential Appraiser
• Certified Residential Appraiser
• Certified General Appraiser

The last three also require that candidates receive instruction on the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and pass an exam. USPAP sets performance and ethical standards for the appraisal profession, which includes both real estate and personal property appraisal.

Continuing education is required to maintain licenses and/or certification, but as with everything else in this realm, the rules vary. For example, in Georgia, appraisers are required to complete 14 hours of approved continuing education courses during each one-year renewal period. More hours are needed for a two-year renewal.

A valid driver’s license is necessary so an appraiser can easily visit various properties. Many appraisers own their own businesses and set their own hours. 

For an inside view of what it’s like to do this job, check out this video of a real estate appraiser describing why and how he got into this line of work. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 4% growth in demand for this role from 2020 to 2030. 

Most successful real estate appraisers share these traits: 

• Great listening skills
• Strong ability to analyze data and compare options
• Good problem-solving skills
• Excellent writing skills
• Good interpersonal skills and enjoy interacting with clients