Looking Ahead

Appraiser Diversity Workshop Scheduled

The Appraisal Institute is collaborating with the National Urban League and Fannie Mae to host a free virtual Appraiser Diversity Initiative workshop, “How to Become a Real Estate Appraiser,” Saturday, Jan. 30, noon - 1:15 p.m. EST.

“How to Become a Real Estate Appraiser” will teach attendees about increasingly attractive career options in the exciting world of real estate appraisal. The workshop will also provide knowledge regarding the role of residential property appraisers and their importance, generating valuable opinions useful for mortgage lending.

The workshop further addresses:

• Giving an explanation of how appraisers develop opinions of value;
• Explaining education and experience requirements to become an appraiser;
• Describing opportunities to work flexible hours in the field or office; and
• Answering questions with a panel of successful appraisers.

The goals of the Appraiser Diversity Initiative are to attract diverse new entrants into the residential appraisal field, overcome barriers to entry (such as education, training, and experience requirements), and provide support to position aspiring appraisers for professional success.

For more information or questions about this offering please contact the Appraisal Institute Headquarters Office at 312/335-4100 or click here.

"I learned things I didn't even know I didn't know, such as the potentially significant differences between a legal parcel and an assessor-designated parcel."

Workshop Presenter: Neil A. Lefmann, MAI, SRA - Sr. Appraiser, Valbridge Property Advisors

California not only maintains the most complex and far-reaching land regulations in the nation: it is also the only one of 50 states that has state-mandated land use regulations and procedures, which are in addition to local county, city and other regulatory ordinances.

There is widespread confusion regarding what constitutes a legal parcel. While California’s Subdivision Map Act provides a legal framework, it’s not so simple to navigate the SMA’s complexities.  This presentation will inform attendees’ understanding of significant considerations pertaining to legal parcels, which are a critically important element in real property appraisals and Market Value.  

In this 3-hour virtual workshop, as an appraiser, Lefmann who brings more than 4 decades of experience in land valuation will offer an engaging review of all you need to know about legal parcels, legal subdivisions, legal descriptions, and related issues.

• History of Land Ownership in the U.S. and California
• What is PLSS?  Lot & Block? Metes and Bounds?
• Tract Map vs. Parcel Map vs. Record of Survey
• The difference between and Assessor's Parcels and Legal Parcels
• Significant elements of California's Subdivision Map Act
• About legal non-conforming parcels and merger provisions
• Units of lengths (rods, chains, links, varas)
• How to read legal descriptions
• How curves are legally described
• How to draw a legal description
• Useful computer programs

This Educational Program (Program) was developed and organized by the Appraisal Institute Chapter offering the Program with the intent of addressing topic(s) of current local interest solely for educational and informational purposes. The Appraisal Institute national organization was not involved in developing or organizing the Program. The content of this Program, including but not limited to any written materials and presenter comments, does not represent the viewpoint of the Appraisal Institute (defined as including but not limited to, the national organization, its Regions, Chapters, members, candidates, affiliates and staff) unless formally adopted by the national Board of Directors. Further, the Appraisal Institute has not peer-reviewed or approved the content of the Program and does not warrant the accuracy or timeliness of the content of the Program. The content of the Program is subject to court decisions and local, state and federal laws and regulations and any such revisions of such laws and regulations. This Program is presented with the understanding that the Appraisal Institute is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice or services. Nothing in the Program is to be construed as the offering of such advice or services. If expert advice or services are required, attendees and readers are responsible for obtaining such advice or services from appropriate professionals. Please note that not all states have approved Virtual education, therefore, registrants must check their individual states for approval before registering for the program. Before registering for the program, registrants understand and agree that continuing education credit for this program may not be available in their state on the date of the program. The Appraisal Institute is not responsible if credit is not available for the program in individual states. State exceptions for virtual education may expire prior to the offering date.

A FREE webinar hosted by the Alameda County Assessor's Office and the Fremont Chamber of Commerce

The financial squeeze that businesses are experiencing due to COVID has been devastating. Businesses must look to every resource to find and save money to weather the pandemic. Alameda County Assessor Phong La will join the Fremont Chamber of Commerce to discuss the work of the Assessor’s Office focusing on Proposition 19 and the recently passed low-value ordinance in Alameda. The financial impact of these programs could be of lifesaving for business.

This event is not sponsored or endorsed by the Northern California Chapter. 

Instructor: Gary DeWeese, MAI

In this 4-hour virtual seminar, enhance your valuation analyses and broaden your consulting portfolio by understanding the complexities of calculating effective rent. You will gain a thorough understanding of effective rent and its importance in lease negotiations and valuation assignments by working through case studies featuring common circumstances involving effective rent. Strengthen your analyses by evaluating the way effective rent impacts property value. Recognize how the integration of the effective rent measurement is used by market participants (landlords and tenants) for leases involving landlord concessions and non-market-based provisions in all three approaches to value. At the end of the seminar, you will have a take-away model to use immediately when incorporating effective rent into your valuation or consulting work.

• Define effective rent and distinguish between nominal rent and effective rent.
• Identify how calculating effective rent impacts property value.
• Recognize how familiarity with effective rent implications helps appraisers consult with landlords and tenants in lease negotiations.
• Identify how integration of the effective rent measurement impacts all three approaches to value.
• Evaluate proper methods of calculating effective rent and apply the conclusions in each approach to value.

Instructor: Stephen Roach, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS

Based on the Appraisal Institute textbook Applications in Litigation Valuation: A Pragmatist’s Guide, this seminar discusses in detail three of the book’s case studies that provide an overview of litigation strategies for appraisers who are new to litigation work, as well as a reinforcement of litigation skills for more experienced appraisers. Case study topics include title issues, continuing nuisance, and condemnation.

• Identify important issues specific to litigation valuation assignments.
• Evaluate competency as it relates to litigation assignments.
• Develop an appropriate scope of work for complex litigation appraisal problems.
• Identify appropriate valuation techniques for litigation assignments.
• Develop an engagement letter for phased litigation assignments.
• Identify best practices for preparation of demonstrative evidence.
• Identify best practices for preparation for direct testimony.

Note. Applications in Litigation Valuation: A Pragmatist’s Guide is required for this seminar; it is not included with the seminar tuition. If you do not have the textbook, please order in the Online Store; allow sufficient time for delivery.

You've told us that connecting with other professionals is an important way of gathering relevant market information.  Based on the success of our 2020 informal "Brown Bag" virtual get togethers, we are gearing up to do it again! 

Please join us for our lunchtime intereactive open discussion of appraiser/appraisal issues, challenges, and solutions during the pandemic era. 

Location: Wherever it is convenient for you!

Time:  12:00 - 1:00pm

Details:

• Participation is complimentary. 
• CEC is not availble.  
• RSVP Required by 2/22:  Only those pre-registered will be sent details to connect to log-in to the ZOOM platform.  Since there is no CEC for this offering, registrants may opt to "call-in". 
• Those seeking the full ZOOM experience will need to have: Internet access, a computer, a webcam and a microphone.  Note: Most laptops have cameras and microphones built in.  New to ZOOM?  Take their FREE tutorial on How to Join a Meeting.

RSVP or Questions? Contact Chris Daniel, SRA

Due to demand this second offering has been added to our schedule!

Developer and Instructor: Gary DeWeese, MAI

By examining unusual and complex land valuation assignments, this seminar takes concepts covered in the Appraisal Institute curriculum to the next level. In addition to lecture, discussion, and Q&A, sample case studies will demonstrate, primarily in Excel, conceptual and practical applications that participants will be able to incorporate into their day-to-day work. The seminar will suggest strategies for performing these assignments.

• Utilize a land residual technique based on a DCF analysis to value land intended for two alternative competing uses (“for rental” apartments versus “for-sale” condos)
  
  
• Determine the highest and best use of land when the legally permissible, physically possible, and financially feasible use(s) are very uncertain and cannot be determined using traditional methodologies
  
  
• Determine land rent using a non-traditional unit of comparison (in this case land rental value based on average traffic volume)
  
  
• Estimate the value of land subject to a long-term ground lease with multiple forms of financial benefits accruing to the land owner
  
  
• Determine land value when its value is a function of a curvilinear relationship – in this case determining the value of land suitable for apartment development as a function of density (allowable units per acre)

WIC was launched during the Appraisal Institute's National Convention in Denver in July 2019.  The committee aims to support female appraisers through professional development training, networking opportunities, mentorships, career outreach and other professional growth opportunities. Locally, the Northern California Chapter looks forward to hosting quarterly WIC ZOOM "chats". 

Stand by for our March discusion topic.  The purpose of our ZOOM meetings is to help women connect with other female valuation professionals in a casual, engaging format.  Whether you're an entry-level appraiser or a lifetime professional, join in our discussion! 

Location: Wherever it is convenient for you!

Time:  12:00 - 1:00pm

Details:  Participation is complimentary.  CEC is not availble. 

RSVP or Questions? Contact Nancy Phillips, SRA

Residential * Commercial * Agricultural 

The very first Valley Seminar began in 1970.  Our "modern" version of the Valley Seminar became known as the Spring Conference in 2000 and has taken place each spring at the Modesto Center Plaza since 2006.  2021 will be bring a "new first" as this offering will be presented in a virtual format.

This event continues to evolve each year, with expanded breakout sessions to provide a greater depth of topics and the opportunity to hear from and connect with a variety of industry professionals. It is the combination of quality and content which draws an increasing number of attendees not only from the Central Valley but from the greater Bay Area and beyond.

Presentations include our ever popular and informative Opening Session State of the Profession. 

Special Guest
Craig Steinley, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, AI-RRS, Appraisal Institute 2021 National Vice President

Presenters include
Ali Wolf, Chief Economist, Zonda
Mike Belote, President / Lobbyist, California Advocates, Inc.
Joshua Borger, Partner, Berliner Cohen, LLP
Peter Christensen, Attorney, Christensen Law Firm
Denis DeSaix, MAI, SRA, Metrocal Appraisal
Tim Mustin, Senior Vice President, Jones Lang LaSalle Brokerage, Inc.
Thomas C. Solomon, Partner, CoSoL Commercial Real Estate

Topics include

• Agricultural Market Overview
• Commercial Market Overview:  Looking Back, Looking Forward
  
• Residential Economic and Market Overview: Resale and New Homes
• Appraising in Litigation Assignments
• Non-Lending Appraisals: IRS, Estates, Gifting and Working with CPAs & Financial Planners
• Eliminating Bias in Appraisals
• Residential HBU Issues, ADUs, and Unique Homes with Acreage
• Water Issues:  Legislation and Logistics

Watch for more details coming soon

This Educational Program (Program) was developed and organized by the Appraisal Institute Chapter offering the Program with the intent of addressing topic(s) of current local interest solely for educational and informational purposes. The Appraisal Institute national organization was not involved in developing or organizing the Program. The content of this Program, including but not limited to any written materials and presenter comments, does not represent the viewpoint of the Appraisal Institute (defined as including but not limited to, the national organization, its Regions, Chapters, members, candidates, affiliates and staff) unless formally adopted by the national Board of Directors. Further, the Appraisal Institute has not peer-reviewed or approved the content of the Program and does not warrant the accuracy or timeliness of the content of the Program. The content of the Program is subject to court decisions and local, state and federal laws and regulations and any such revisions of such laws and regulations. This Program is presented with the understanding that the Appraisal Institute is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice or services. Nothing in the Program is to be construed as the offering of such advice or services. If expert advice or services are required, attendees and readers are responsible for obtaining such advice or services from appropriate professionals.Please note that not all states have approved Virtual education, therefore, registrants must check their individual states for approval before registering for the program. Before registering for the program, registrants understand and agree that continuing education credit for this program may not be available in their state on the date of the program. The Appraisal Institute is not responsible if credit is not available for the program in individual states. State exceptions for virtual education may expire prior to the offering date.

An opportunity to get a sneak peek at the year ahead.  In this 3-hour virtual presentation you will hear from real estate industry professionals in the areas of:

• Retail
• Hotels and Resorts
• Senior Centers
• . . . and more!

Watch for details coming soon!

This Educational Program (Program) was developed and organized by the Appraisal Institute Chapter offering the Program with the intent of addressing topic(s) of current local interest solely for educational and informational purposes. The Appraisal Institute national organization was not involved in developing or organizing the Program. The content of this Program, including but not limited to any written materials and presenter comments, does not represent the viewpoint of the Appraisal Institute (defined as including but not limited to, the national organization, its Regions, Chapters, members, candidates, affiliates and staff) unless formally adopted by the national Board of Directors. Further, the Appraisal Institute has not peer-reviewed or approved the content of the Program and does not warrant the accuracy or timeliness of the content of the Program. The content of the Program is subject to court decisions and local, state and federal laws and regulations and any such revisions of such laws and regulations. This Program is presented with the understanding that the Appraisal Institute is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice or services. Nothing in the Program is to be construed as the offering of such advice or services. If expert advice or services are required, attendees and readers are responsible for obtaining such advice or services from appropriate professionals.Please note that not all states have approved Virtual education, therefore, registrants must check their individual states for approval before registering for the program. Before registering for the program, registrants understand and agree that continuing education credit for this program may not be available in their state on the date of the program. The Appraisal Institute is not responsible if credit is not available for the program in individual states. State exceptions for virtual education may expire prior to the offering date.

Save the Date! 

Watch for more details coming soon for this ASFMRA annual event.

This program is not sponsored by the Northern California Chapter of AI.  Registration issues and questions should be directed to California Chapter ASFMRA 209.368.3672 or info@calasfmra.com

RAPT is the Appraisal Institute's Residential Appraiser Project Team. 

It's goal is to attract residential appraisers, promoting, and retaining SRAs is our goal.  Ideas include

• Creating roundtables that would assist with and serve in an advisory role in re-writing / updating residential forms
• Expanding the presence of residential appraisers in leadership roles

Locally, the Northern California Chapter looks forward to hosting quarterly RAPT ZOOM meetings.  We will be discussing topics of importance to residential appraisers and encourage all residential appraisers to participate.

These chats are open to everyone and the format is designed to be casual, inviting and engaging, though registration is required.

Location: Wherever it is convenient for you!

Time:  12:00 - 1:00pm

Details:  Participation is complimentary.  CEC is not availble.  

RSVP or Questions? Contact Nancy Phillips, SRA

Instructor: Dawn Molitor-Gennrich, SRA, AI-RRS

As the world changes, so do processes and methods used in many businesses including the appraisal profession. While alternative appraisal services like bifurcated, hybrid, and desktop appraisals and evaluations aren’t new, they are becoming more popular. Many appraisers are uncertain about the general requirements of each service, how appraisal standards might apply, and how these services might create liability. This seminar will provide more clarity about the different services being requested and help you to decide if these services are for you. It will review the expectations of alternative appraisal services, potential uses, appraisal standard implications, scope of work, and liability concerns as it applies to residential and commercial assignments. And it will review evaluation formats and the business opportunities for them.

• Describe desktop appraisals, such as bifurcated and hybrid, and learn how and when they are used.
• Discover how real estate collateral is used inside federally regulated banks and financial institutions.
• Review the significant Federal and State laws governing all valuations — appraisals and evaluations — used for loan originations, modifications, and other subsequent transactions.
• Identify appraisal standards, Interagency Guidelines, lender requirements, and state law requirements for credentialed appraisers.
• Recognize the development and reporting differences that differentiate appraisals from evaluations and desktop valuation services.
  

Instructor: Dawn Molitor-Gennrich, SRA, AI-RRS

If you are not familiar with residential litigation and are interested in performing more challenging residential assignments, this fast-paced half-day (4-hour) seminar is for you!

Find out the basics of analyzing atypical residential properties for purposes of litigation. In the first case study, which is about a new house on an old dump, the class will initially identify the appraisal problem. The seminar includes opportunities to distinguish between partial and complete remediation and the role of each in this appraisal problem. Learn to differentiate between pounds of paper and critical information. Then discover how disclosure of defects may affect market value. Identify what to do when a typical sales comparison approach is not applicable. Enhance your skills in an entertaining learning environment.

The second case, which involves a home with a disappearing dock, explores deeded rights to community recreational amenities and due diligence in identifying rights associated with ownership. Learn how questionnaires can be helpful problem-solving tools.

The basics of title defect actions require identifying and measuring contributory value of a component, the disappearing dock. Learn tips to help you solve that difficult assignment in a convenient 4-hour virtual presentation!

Instructor: Gary DeWeese, MAI

This 7-hour seminar introduces participants to how the terms of a lease and the risk profile of the tenant influence the valuation of commercial real estate. Participants will see how the business features of commercial leases affect the quantity and the duration of the income stream that a property will generate and the development of the property’s income statement. Non-traditional sources of income, the proper period to use in measuring the income, measuring the real vacancy rate, expenses that might not be recoverable by a landlord if a CAM formula is incorrect, and how other special clauses in a lease can all affect the property’s income stream will be examined. The second part of the seminar discusses tenant credit risk issues and explains why understanding a tenant’s financial strength is key to assessing the quality of the income stream.

The scope of work decision is the most critical one you will make in the development of an appraisal.  After identifying the key elements of the assignment, you decide what needs to be done to arrive at assignment results that address the needs of the intended users of the appraisal. This seminar will help you become familiar with the broad range of services that you can offer under USPAP and give you practice determining the appropriate scope of work for various types of assignments. Return to your office with greater confidence when making scope of work decisions.

A full-day residential conference jointly sponsored  by the Northern California Chapter of the Appraisal Institute and the Real Estate Appraisers Association (REAA). 

LISTEN.  PARTICIPATE.  LEARN.

You missed it in 2020.  We missed it in 2020.  It's returning in 2021!

Our 2021 Spring Litigation Conference presents advanced topics to appraisers interested in litigation work. This is a chance to sharpen your knowledge and broaden your practice by listening to some of the top experts in the region.

This Educational Program (Program) was developed and organized by the Appraisal Institute Chapter offering the Program with the intent of addressing topic(s) of current local interest solely for educational and informational purposes. The Appraisal Institute national organization was not involved in developing or organizing the Program. The content of this Program, including but not limited to any written materials and presenter comments, does not represent the viewpoint of the Appraisal Institute (defined as including but not limited to, the national organization, its Regions, Chapters, members, candidates, affiliates and staff) unless formally adopted by the national Board of Directors. Further, the Appraisal Institute has not peer-reviewed or approved the content of the Program and does not warrant the accuracy or timeliness of the content of the Program. The content of the Program is subject to court decisions and local, state and federal laws and regulations and any such revisions of such laws and regulations. This Program is presented with the understanding that the Appraisal Institute is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice or services. Nothing in the Program is to be construed as the offering of such advice or services. If expert advice or services are required, attendees and readers are responsible for obtaining such advice or services from appropriate professionals.

Mandatory Requirement for Initial State Licensing / Certification (QE) and Renewal (CE)
Includes the required open-book exam.

Developer & Instructor(s): Dawn Molitor-Gennrich, SRA, AI-RRS

Appraisers recognize that they have regulatory obligations but understanding which ones apply when doing federally related and real estate related lender work is challenging. A review of sanctions and disciplinary actions taken against appraisers by the Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers makes it clear that many details and nuances of the appraiser laws and regulations are being misunderstood. Common, unintentional errors impact both the reputations of individual appraisers as well as confidence in the competency and ethics of the appraisal profession. This seminar is designed to help you recognize and understand the laws and regulations most important to appraisers practicing in California.

Business Practices and Ethics is an important course that provides information about standards and ethics requirements for valuers in general and, more specifically, for valuers who belong to the Appraisal Institute. Through discussion questions and examples, the class compares behavior and actions that illustrate violations of the Code of Professional Ethics, and participants learn how referrals can be made. Participants are also introduced to the Appraisal Institute Guide Notes to the Standards of Professional Practice and use these Guide Notes to resolve everyday appraisal practice problems. At the end of the course, they learn about common errors in appraisal reports and review reports, and they respond to questions about challenges that arise in appraisal practice such as requests for updates and requests to change or add intended users. These are common business practice issues that appraisers encounter in various assignments, including mortgage lending, litigation, and property tax appeal. Other real-life scenarios in the course illustrate less common business practice issues such as an appraiser’s obligation when illegal or criminal behavior is observed.

This offering will be based on the current 2020-21 version of USPAP.

This one-day update course, copyrighted by The Appraisal Foundation, focuses on recent changes to USPAP requirements for ethical behavior and competent performance by appraisers. The course, which clarifies several commonly misunderstood aspects of USPAP, will aid participants in all areas of appraisal practice seeking updated competency in USPAP, including those subject to state licensing or certification and continuing education requirements imposed by professional organizations, client groups, or employers.

NOTE: Appraisers must successfully complete the 7-hour USPAP Update Course every two years to meet the USPAP continuing education requirement.

Participants can take the 15-hour USPAP course, but it will only count for hours toward his or her state's continuing education requirement; the 15-hour program will not meet the USPAP continuing education requirement.

Rural Valuation Basics provides residential and general appraisers with the fundamentals of analyzing comparable data for use in rural appraisal assignments. This 7-hour seminar will focus on land mix analysis, improvement value extraction and allocation, and how to develop adjustments. While working on a typical rural property case study that both residential and commercial appraisers might be asked to appraise, participants will learn how to properly analyze and use information that is available in rural markets to support a credible opinion of value. Excel spreadsheets will be provided which will assist participants in their analyses.

All Day. All Residential.

Building on the continued success of prior year Residential Symposiums, our in-the-know panelists will share meaningful tools and tips that attendees can use to prosper and grow their businesses in today's ever-changing real estate environment. 

Instructor and Developer: Gary DeWeese, MAI

"Gary's analysis comes from the real world.  His examples are grounded in reality."                                                                                                                                     - August 2020 Attendee

Our most popular one-day seminar returns in the Fall of 2021!

The wine industry is a complex and vast market where global trends affect local vineyard values.  This presentation will provide attendees with the history and evolution of vineyard economics throughout the many wine regions of California.  You will learn what factors have led to changing prices, as well as how prices have responded to changing market conditions over the years.

This 7-hour offering was such a hit in 2019 AND 2020, we are bringing it back in 2021!  If you missed it, here is another opportunity. 

A review appraiser, employed by a state-regulatory agency, commented in a USPAP class that highest and best use is the most deficient section in many appraisal reports.  Whenever a market value opinion is developed, USPAP S.R. 2-2(a) requires the report to "summarize the support and rationale" for the highest and best use conclusion. 

This seminar is intended to enhance USPAP compliance for both residential and commercial appraisers.   

Learning Objectives

• Reviews many basic concepts of H&B use
• Defines key terms like “support” and “reasonably probable”.
• Clarifies the four test of H&B use.
• Identifies the four components of a proper H&B use conclusion
• Differentiates the four tests from the four conclusions
• Identifies the five (5) most likely buyer types
• Explores and develops supportable conclusions for nine atypical, real-world situations where H&B use was initially uncertain
• Details practical procedures to help appraisers develop a proper H&B use conclusion for both typical and very atypical appraisal problems.

Registrants will receive a well-organized handbook that is a replica of the PowerPoint is provided.  This 80+ page handbook will lessen in-class writing and assist the appraiser back at the office. 

Instructor: Dawn Molitor-Gennrich, SRA, AI-RRS

Real estate markets and residential appraisal requirements have changed significantly due to market volatility and increased oversight, which has left residential appraisers searching for new strategies to handle their appraisal assignments. This seminar revisits valuation fundamentals and illustrates why you need data collection and analytical skills more than ever. The seminar uses and is based on the 2018 updated 2nd edition of Valuation by Comparison. You’ll learn why clients need an appraisal, why you must have appropriate market data, and why it is imperative that you know your market. You’ll discover how to find the information you need in markets where data is scarce, inconsistent, or misleading. And you’ll explore techniques to accurately interpret and then anticipate the actions of buyers and sellers in today’s market. Whether you are an experienced appraiser or newer to the profession, you’ll learn about a variety of approaches and resources that are available for gleaning indications of market value, and you’ll better understand which items require adjustment and which items can be ignored.

2021 marks the 71st consecutive year that the Northern California Chapter has presented its award-winning Annual Fall Conference. 

Fall Conference is the real estate appraisal profession’s longest-running and highest-rated one-day continuing education & networking event on the West Coast. Our conference consistently draws over 250 participants and features the real estate profession’s “most in-the-know” presenters.  Our topics will keep you informed of the latest developments that affect your profession, your profitability, your business – your future.

Exact date to be determined shortly.

The General Demonstration Report-Capstone Program is an option that Candidates for Designation may choose to complete their demonstration of knowledge requirement for their MAI designation. Like the traditional requirement, the same skills and knowledge base are required to produce a complete demonstration appraisal report. However, this program was designed to offer an option that accelerates the completion.

Required prerequisites that must be completed before Candidates for Designation working toward a MAI designation can register:

• Must have taken the General Demonstration Report Writing seminar within the past five years.
• Must have passed the Advanced Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use exam.
• No continuing education credit is given for this program.
• Due to the nature of this program, no refunds or time extensions will be granted.
• Required equipment: An HP-19BII, HP-17BII, HP-12C or equivalent calculator.

View register link for important registration, material release and pre-webinar dates and deadlines.  This offering is sponsored the Appraisal Institute National Office.  Questions?  Contact 312-335-4207.

Developer and Instructor: Gary DeWeese, MAI

If you’re involved in the valuation of commercial real estate, it’s crucial to know how the terms of a lease affect value. This seminar goes beyond methodology to explore how to measure a property rights adjustment, the theory underlying the use of a leasehold yield rate (Y_LH) to value the leasehold, as well as the application of a property rights adjustment in all three approaches to value.

• Recognize how the terms of a tenant’s lease impact value—either positively or negatively.
• Identify situations that require a valuation of a leasehold.
• Identify methodologies in valuing a leasehold, including examples and exercises.
• Recognize the impact of a leasehold in the valuation of property using all applicable approaches.
• Identify challenges facing appraisers performing leasehold valuation assignments.

This annual event returns to a full-day program in 2021! 

Just what are unique and special purpose properties?

Special Purpose Property: A property with a unique physical design, special construction materials, or a layout that particularly adapts its utility to the use for which it was built.
 - The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal

Mandatory Requirement for Initial State Licensing / Certification (QE) and Renewal (CE)
Includes the required open-book exam.

Developer & Instructor(s): Dawn Molitor-Gennrich, SRA, AI-RRS

Appraisers recognize that they have regulatory obligations but understanding which ones apply when doing federally related and real estate related lender work is challenging. A review of sanctions and disciplinary actions taken against appraisers by the Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers makes it clear that many details and nuances of the appraiser laws and regulations are being misunderstood. Common, unintentional errors impact both the reputations of individual appraisers as well as confidence in the competency and ethics of the appraisal profession. This seminar is designed to help you recognize and understand the laws and regulations most important to appraisers practicing in California.

This one-day update course, copyrighted by The Appraisal Foundation, focuses on recent changes to USPAP requirements for ethical behavior and competent performance by appraisers. The course, which clarifies several commonly misunderstood aspects of USPAP, will aid participants in all areas of appraisal practice seeking updated competency in USPAP, including those subject to state licensing or certification and continuing education requirements imposed by professional organizations, client groups, or employers.

NOTE: Appraisers must successfully complete the 7-hour USPAP Update Course every two years to meet the USPAP continuing education requirement.

Participants can take the 15-hour USPAP course, but it will only count for hours toward his or her state's continuing education requirement; the 15-hour program will not meet the USPAP continuing education requirement.

Watch for more details - registration not expected to open until Fall 2022.

Business Practices and Ethics is an important course that provides information about standards and ethics requirements for valuers in general and, more specifically, for valuers who belong to the Appraisal Institute. Through discussion questions and examples, the class compares behavior and actions that illustrate violations of the Code of Professional Ethics, and participants learn how referrals can be made. Participants are also introduced to the Appraisal Institute Guide Notes to the Standards of Professional Practice and use these Guide Notes to resolve everyday appraisal practice problems. At the end of the course, they learn about common errors in appraisal reports and review reports, and they respond to questions about challenges that arise in appraisal practice such as requests for updates and requests to change or add intended users. These are common business practice issues that appraisers encounter in various assignments, including mortgage lending, litigation, and property tax appeal. Other real-life scenarios in the course illustrate less common business practice issues such as an appraiser’s obligation when illegal or criminal behavior is observed.