What is takes to be a Real Estate Appraiser

So how do you become an appraiser?

There are four different categories of appraisers. The first category is a trainee appraiser. Under this category, you must work under the supervision of a licensed/certified appraiser who is ultimately responsible for the work you perform. To be a trainee appraiser you must complete at least 75 hours or classroom training in appraisal topics. There is no experience required and no exam to be passed. As you gain experience you can move on the the next category, a licensed real property appraiser. Licensed appraiser can perform appraisals involving one- to four- unit residential properties in transactions less than $250,000, and noncomplex properties in transactions less than $1,000,000. To become a licensed appraiser you must complete 150 hours of classroom training, must pass a written exam on appraisal topics, and must have at least 2000 hours of experience. The third category is a certified residential appraiser. This kind of appraiser can perform appraisals on residential one to four units without regard to transaction amount or complexity. To become a certified  residential appraiser you must complete 200 hours of classroom training, pass an exam, and must have at least 2500 hours of experience. Finally the last and most advanced category is a certified general appraiser. This appraiser can appraise any type of property. To be a certified general appraiser you must complete 300 classroom hours, pass an exam, and have a minimum of 3000 hours of experience.

So what does a real appraiser actually do? The video below gives a quick, but informational summary of an appraisers job description.

With so many appraisal companies out there, you could feel overwhelmed by who to choose. I have provided a website link that lists the Top 10 Appraisal Management Companies in the United States. These ten companies can help you no matter what state you live in or what kind of property you need appraised.

Now if you have an interest in becoming a real estate appraiser, you probably want to know how and how much you get paid. CNN's money magazine has named this career one of the best jobs in America. Click on the link to get all the statistics on what real estate appraisers make and the opportunities if you decide to pursue this career.