What is a Certified General Appraiser

A Certified General Appraiser is a professional who has met the qualifications and requirements set by a state appraisal board and is certified to perform appraisals of all types of real property. This certification is the highest level of appraiser certification and allows the appraiser to evaluate a wide range of properties, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties.

Certified General Appraisers are qualified to handle complex appraisal assignments and are often required for high-value or specialized properties. They play a crucial role in the real estate market by providing accurate and unbiased property valuations.

Key qualifications and requirements typically include:

1. Education: Completing a specified number of classroom hours in appraisal education, which covers topics such as appraisal principles, procedures, market analysis, and highest and best use analysis.

2. Experience: Accumulating a certain number of hours of appraisal experience under the supervision of a certified appraiser. This experience must span various property types to ensure the appraiser is well-rounded.

3. Examination: Passing the Certified General Appraiser exam, which tests knowledge of appraisal standards, methodologies, and legal requirements.

4. Continuing Education: Committing to ongoing education to stay current with changes in appraisal standards, laws, and market trends.

 5. Licensing: Obtaining and maintaining a state-issued license or certification, which typically requires background checks and adherence to professional and ethical standards.