Opinions of Value

Your source for appraisal news and trends

Is Now the Time to Start an Appraisal Career?

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For students who are approaching college graduation, or those who have recently finished their university careers, the future can hold many unanswered questions. While many struggle to find jobs related to their degrees, a good deal of those who secure employment will do so at the price of lower-level and lower-paid positions.

 

While many young students may enter the academic world with an idea of what they’d like to do after they graduate, there is an array of less obvious career options they likely haven’t even considered – including the valuation profession. [Read more…]

Recruiting the Next Generation of Real Estate Appraisers

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With more than half of appraisers in the U.S. age 51-65 and nearing retirement, the aging of appraisers presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the valuation profession. Because nearly 54 percent of college graduates are unsure of next steps, college students represent a virtually untapped resource for the next generation of real estate appraisers.

graduate_2In 2011, Inc. Magazine named real estate appraisal as one of six “top performing industries,” due to the demand as well as the housing market’s recovery, stating that the appraisal profession should be the first to reap the benefits. It also noted revenue and employment growth of nearly 9 percent and 4 percent, respectively, and low barriers to entry.

Key growth markets could include working with accountants, financial analysts, investors and others on real estate portfolio management/analysis, purchase, lease and investment packaging. Additional areas of real estate valuation such as right of way, conservation easement, taxation issues and litigation support (expert witness) also could provide opportunities for professionals looking to get into the appraisal business. [Read more…]