The Appraisal Institute Board of Directors in 2010 approved a new strategic vision that will transition the organization from a professional association to a professional society. As part of that goal, the Board in October 2011 sent notice of proposed bylaws changes to AI members that would create a Candidate for Designation Program. The Board is expected to vote in December 2011.

Becoming a Candidate for Designation would be the one and only path to Designated membership in the Appraisal Institute. Those interested in becoming Designated members would enroll in a structured program – similar to an MBA program – that would offer guidance and financial incentives for Candidates to make progress toward an MAI or SRA designation.

The Appraisal Institute must grow and adapt with the changing valuation profession and motivate qualified individuals to become Designated in a timely manner.

Along with initiatives such as core competencies and possible designations for appraisal reviewers, the Candidate for Designation Program would reinforce the public stature of the Appraisal Institute.

Instead of Designated Members, Associate Members and Affiliate Members, AI would have Designated Members, Candidates for Designation and Affiliates, as newly defined.

The Appraisal Institute would invite all current state certified Associate members (or equivalent) into the program. Those new to AI would have up to one year to become a Candidate for Designation. Non-state certified appraisers, including those who are currently Associate members, would become newly-defined Affiliates, as would Associate members who decline to become Candidates.

Participation in the program would constitute a commitment between the Candidate and the Appraisal Institute. Candidates would commit to meeting the designation requirements within an established timeframe, and the Appraisal Institute would help them be successful. There would be a maximum time limit set for completing the designation requirements.

The program would provide advisers for Candidate members; those advisers would be assisted by the staff and would receive continuing education credit.

The Board is currently requesting feedback from the membership on the draft bylaws and proposed program overall. To provide feedback, please email candidatefeedback@appraisalinstitute.org.

So, what does all of this mean for appraisers who aren’t AI members? We have more than 24,000 members in 60 countries. Thousands of members have earned MAI and/or SRA designations, and many more are expected to follow that path. Designated members will continue to be recognized as the best of the best in the valuation profession. We hope that you will join AI and work toward that significant achievement.

For more information, visit http://www.appraisalinstitute.org/myappraisalinstitute/CndtDsgntn/Default.aspx (member log-in required).

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