In both your appraisal business, as well as your life, are you focused on the fluff and the crap? Do you major in minors? Or, do you focus on, do … Read More
Appraiser Integrity
No, I am not talking about USPAP, confidentially, or unbiased value evaluation. While these are all important, I am simply talking about doing what you say you will do as … Read More
What to Tell Borrowers in an Appraisal Inspection
It can be hard to know exactly what to tell a borrower sometimes in an inspection when it comes to repairs. For example, if you see chipping and peeling paint … Read More
Appraising Where It is Warmer
There was a point when I was seriously considering the possibility of moving to Belize. I live in a cold climate so the prospect of living in a warmer area … Read More
Being an Appraiser with a Disability
Here are some thoughts on something I know nothing about, but want to get some answers. How does the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) affect real estate appraisers? This act … Read More
The Wheels on the Appraiser Bus Go Round and Round
You probably have heard me refer to the analogy of the bus in Jim Collins’ book, Good to Great. He compares a business to a bus and talks about making … Read More
Can Your Appraisal Business Run Without You
I think it is important to be able to take a vacation from time to time. Perhaps your vacation is an opportunity to build relationships or simply a time to … Read More
USPAP and Questions on Confidentiality
In the context of a real estate appraisal, especially a residential real estate appraisal for a lender thru an AMC, what is confidential? First, look at USPAP’s definition of confidential … Read More
Appraisers and Phones
It is rare for appraisers to meet potential or existing clients face-to-face. As technology dominates the business world, most, if not all, orders are obtained through email or phone. It … Read More
The Appraiser Gap Between Where We Are & Where We Want to Be
We appraisers must make decisions every day. However, sometimes taking that step is really difficult. I can’t take away the difficulty and discomfort inherent in making a decision, but this … Read More