Frequently Asked Questions
The Appraisal Institute - Seattle
Chapter
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 in the United States 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.
Members also have access to group insurance benefits, the Lum
Library and research service, and an advocate in government relations
on the national and state levels.
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.
How do I become an appraiser?
To appraise real property, most 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.
What are the costs of membership?
Memberships dues
per Year
Associate
member
Affiliate
member
$250.00
National dues
$150.00
National dues
$ 10.00 Regional
dues
$ 10.00 Regional
dues
$110.00 Chapter
dues
$110.00 Chapter
dues
$370.00 Total
$270.00 Total
Residential member
General member
$625.00 National
dues
$725.00 National
dues
$ 30.00 Regional
dues
$ 30.00 Regional
dues
$165.00 Chapter
dues
$165.00 Chapter
dues
$820.00 Total
$920.00 Total
Additional fees are charged for educational programs and other
requirements throughout the designation process.
What does an appraiser do?
The fundamental role of
an appraiser is to provide a professional 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.