I’m pleased to report that AI continues its advocacy on behalf of its individuals and the valuation profession as a whole.

AI Urges NCUA to Hold Line on Credit Union Construction Loans

In an August 31 comment letter on the National Credit Union Administration’s proposed rule to expand credit union business lending, the Appraisal Institute asked the NCUA to mirror regulations and guidance issued by federal bank regulatory agencies relative to construction and development loans. AI also asked the NCUA to conduct meaningful oversight should credit unions expand their lending footprint.

Specifically, the Appraisal Institute urged the NCUA to avoid creating competitive advantages or disadvantages with banks relative to examination procedures and protocols in real estate loans. AI’s letter said, “Our experience is that most credit unions do not have functioning real estate risk management operations, including appraisal departments or operations. This would need to change if credit unions were to expand into this area.”

Read AI’s letter to the NCUA about the proposed rule.

AI Leaders Represent Organization at Key Industry Events

In keeping with the Appraisal Institute’s commitment to convey its thought leadership to valuation professionals and others, I was joined by AI President-Elect Scott Robinson, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, at the Association of Romanian Valuers International Conference on Valuation, September 9, in Bucharest, Romania. At this conference, I addressed the role of appraisal reviewers in the U.S. and Scott presented on the steps in the appraisal review process. Vice President Jim Amorin, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, and Immediate Past President Ken Wilson, MAI, SRA, represented AI at the International Association of Assessing Officers Conference, September 13-16, in Indianapolis, where the Appraisal Institute exhibited on the trade floor show. AI also exhibited at the CFA Institute’s Global Investment Performance Standards Conference, September 18-19, in San Diego.

Other News Around AI

And here’s some other important news from the Appraisal Institute:

• If you haven’t already done so, I encourage you to check out the latest quarterly edition of The Appraisal Journal, which contains timely and informative articles about relevant topics.
• The Appraisal Institute continues to grow its social media presence. Be sure to follow AI on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Best wishes for a prosperous month!