Frequently Asked Questions

Most inquiries about appraisal services start off with two common questions:

1. How much will an appraisal cost?
2. How long will it take to complete?

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Who is an Appraiser?

These standards outline a set of steps appraisers are required to follow in the normal course of providing their services. All the “what is an appraisal” items are outlined in these standards. Initially, the Appraisal Process that defined what was required of appraisers for each assignment was very complex and inflexible. Eventually, it was realized that all users of appraisal services do not require the same thing, so some allowance is now made for the needs of the appraisal client.

Each assignment is now governed by an agreement between the client and appraiser, referred to as the “Scope of Work”. Within the framework of the minimum requirements of USPAP compliance, appraisers can work with clients to provide the best possible solution to their appraisal needs. This can vary from extremely detailed, in-depth analysis to a simple range of values. When considering a fee quote and time considerations to complete and assignment, appraisers develop an understanding of the needs of the client to enable them to structure a Scope of Work that will meet the needs and objectives of the client.

It should also be pointed out that as the complexity of the problem increases, so does the level of expertise needed to solve the problem. State Certification is viewed as a minimum level of competency. Beyond that, appraisers seek education and training from various appraisal organizations. Accreditation or Designation from some of these often requires nearly twice the level of education and training as that required of State Certification. If the problem is complex, and the outcome of the value opinion critical, by all means, seek the services of a designated appraiser. For farms and rural properties, the ONLY designation you should consider is the Accredited Rural Appraiser.