The credible organizations offer professional designations awarded on successful completion of appraisal courses with comprehensive examinations, proof of experience through personal interviews with admissions committees that verify the candidate's experience, and a demonstration appraisal report which could be compared to a master's thesis. Once designated, an appraiser typically must participate in mandatory continuing education programs.

These organizations adhere to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, established by the Appraisal Foundation and adopted by various federal agencies. These standards must be adhered to by all state licensed or certified appraisers.

Designated members of many of the professional organizations have fulfilled rigorous educational and experience requirements, obtained a college degree or its equivalent, and must adhere to strict industry standards and a professional code of ethics. There are other appraisal organizations that require limited or no education or practical experience, no recertification, and no ethical expulsion provisions.

Membership in a professional group and a designation earned is not in and of itself evidence of professionalism and quality. It should also be noted that many professional appraisers choose not to affiliate with a professional association.

This appraiser is affiliated with the NAIFA (National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers), and has earned the Residential Specialist Designation of "IFA".

The following Appraisal Oganizations are recognized by and sponsors of The Appraisal Foundation, which is authorized by Congress as the source of appraisal standards and appraisal qualifications:

• The National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers
• The American Society of Appraisers
• The Appraisal Institute
• The National Association of Master Appraisers
• The American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers
• The Appraisers Association of America
• The International Association of Assessing Officers
• The International Right of Way Association
• The Massachusetts Board of Real Estate Appraisers

• Must be a "Declared Candidate", in good standing.
• Must submit the experience rating form (ERF) prior to submission and grading of the demonstration report, subject to the approval by the Admissions Committee.
• Must submit evidence of a four (4) year college degree, or the equivalent thereof.
• Must provide proof of State Certification.
• Must submit evidence of successful completion of the NAIFA Ethics Course.
• Must submit a Demonstration Self-Contained Appraisal Report or an expanded form report of a single family or one to four unit  residential property, subject to the requirements and grading criteria set forth by the Admissions Committee.            
  

Information about NAIFA:

NAIFA was founded in 1961 as a nonprofit professional association of real estate appraisers. Today, NAIFA has chapters throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Association’s objectives are to raise the standards of the appraisal profession, gain recognition for its members as qualified professionals, and to promote fellowship among appraisers. 

Because of its rigorous education and experience requirements, a commitment to adhere to strict industry standards, and a professional code of ethics, you can be confident an appraiser with an IFA Designation will provide you with the highest quality residential appraisal service.