Educational Requirements for Appraisal Certification
Becoming a certified real estate appraiser requires a combination of education, experience, and examination. The educational prerequisites vary based on the certification level desired: Trainee, Licensed Residential, Certified Residential, or Certified General. All aspiring appraisers must complete a set of core courses that cover basic appraisal principles, procedures, and ethics. For instance, topics typically include real estate law, types of property valuation, and fundamentals of residential and commercial property appraisal.
In California, additional state-specific requirements apply, reflecting local real estate laws and valuation techniques specific to the region’s diverse property types. Candidates must successfully complete courses accredited by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB) and often need additional hours of specialized education depending on their desired level of certification.
After fulfilling these educational requirements, candidates in California and other states must also complete a certain number of hours of supervised practical experience before they are eligible to sit for the certification exam. Continuing education is mandatory for maintaining certification, ensuring that appraisers stay up-to-date with industry changes and standards.