What does an appraiser do?

The fundamental role of an appraiser is to provide an opinion, usually an estimate of market value, to be used in making real estate decisions. Typically appraisers are employed by lenders to estimate the value of real estate involved in a loan transaction. Appraisers also provide opinions in litigation cases, tax matters, and investment decisions.

How do I become an appraiser?

To appraise real property, all states require appraisers to be licensed or certified. The Appraisal Institute offers basic real estate appraisal courses that can help you meet your state's requirements. In North Carolina, one must have Basic Appraisal Principles, Basic Appraisal Procedures, (15 Hour USPAP, Course 410) and Residential Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use before he/she can sit for the registered trainees exam. Click here to learn more about what is needed (including exams and experience) in North Carolina. (http://ncappraisalboard.org/application-information/become_appraiser.htm)

Click here to learn more about what is needed (including exams and experience) in North Carolina.

What is the Appraisal Institute?

The Appraisal Institute is an international association of more than 20,000 real estate professionals. We are the largest appraisal organization and the acknowledged leader in real estate appraisal education, publishing and research. We offer general and residential designations to qualified members.

What can the Appraisal Institute do for me?

Membership in the Appraisal Institute increases your business potential. We offer the most widely recognized designations in the industry. Members receive regular periodicals with up-to-date information and discounts on all our courses, seminars, and publications.

Member benefits also include access to group insurance benefits, the Lum Library and research service, and an advocate in government relations on the national and state levels, etc. Please click here to learn more about the benefits.

Individuals in related fields can gain access to qualified real estate appraisers and consultants across the country through our directory of members. Bankers, lawyers, government officials and others who deal with real property transactions can also benefit from our educational programs, publications and periodicals.

What are the costs of membership?

Most members of the Appraisal Institute who want to actively pursue the MAI or SRA designation begin as Associate Members and pay $295 a year in dues to the national organization.

After completing designation requirements, General Designated Members pay $940 and Residential Designated Members pay $740 plus chapter dues ($180) per year.

For individuals not conducting work subject to USPAP, Affiliate Membership is available for $190 a year plus chapter dues ($150). Please note that there are a couple of other subcategories at a reduced rate, if applicable.

Additional fees are charged for educational programs and other requirements throughout the designation process.

How do I join?

Click here for more information. (http://www.appraisalinstitute.org/membership/)

What are the Designation Requirements?

Click here for more information. (http://www.appraisalinstitute.org/designations/Mai_Sra_sum.aspx)