Appraisal associations represent and promote real estate appraisers. Members have access to educational tools as well as industry news that they don’t get in their day-to-day profession. Associations are a collaboration of professionals with experiences and expertise to share. They offer unmatched networking opportunities, a broad perspective of today’s issues and exceptional know-how of industry challenges.

Real estate appraiser organizations test, teach and accredit appraisers. They offer seminars, newsletters, career centers, industry updates and much more, designed to put you at the top of your game. The sharing and learning of new concepts and ideas and concepts is unmatched. When considering a real estate appraisal group:

1. Join appraisal organizations to network with other professionals.

2. Pay annual membership dues to appraisal associations.

3. Expect benefits to range from professional discounts to an increase in personal knowledge.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use real estate appraisal associations to network and develop your professional skills

An appraisal organization can be international, national or local. All have one goal: to further the appraisal industry. They offer members valuable resources and relationships, with an emphasis on educating members on current topics and leading edge technology and current topics.

I recommend: The Appraisal Institute is professional real estate appraisal association with the goal of supporting and advancing members. Membership levels includes affiliate, associate, trainee or student. Register online to receive savings, discounts, publications and group insurance options. American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) is a group of professionals that specialize in valuation, financial analysis and management of rural and agricultural properties. ASFMRA holds national, governance and chapter meetings. To be considered for membership, you must submit and application, along with three references.

Pay annual dues to join professional real estate appraisal organizations

Real estate appraisal associations' dues range depending on the group and the level of membership you choose.

I recommend: The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) is a professional appraiser organization. There are chapters throughout the US and Canada. Download a membership information packet. International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) is a source for education, innovation and research in assessment administration, property appraisal and property tax policy. You can register as a regular, associate, retired or affiliate member.

Enjoy the benefits of real estate appraisal organizations

Members of real estate appraisal groups have access to a variety of benefits, including insurance programs, data resources and tools, and related business materials.

I recommend: National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers (NAIFA) is a real estate appraisal group that offers members discounts on Bluebook products, evaluation software, several services and a subscription to E-Appraiser, the quarterly e-mailed newsletter. If you join Relocation Appraisers and Consultants, Inc. (RAC), you get access to the RAC library, full of helpful educational articles. RAC specializes in relocation appraising and offers training, education and professional standards.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Attend as many meetings and seminars sponsored by real estate appraisal organizations as you can, to further your knowledge of the field.