Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
Federal law requires appraisers of most types of real estate (all property being financed by a federally regulated lender) to be state certified. In some states, appraisers who are not involved with federally regulated institutions do not have to be certified. State certification requirements for appraisers must meet federal standards, but states are free to set more stringent requirements. Formal courses, appraisal experience, and a satisfactory score on an examination are needed to be certified, but college education may be substituted for a portion of the experience requirement. Requirements for licensure vary by state but are somewhat less stringent than for certification.

Job Outlook:
Employment of real estate appraisers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005 as a result of the growing volume of sales of residential and commercial properties. There will be approximately 63,000 real estate appraisers by 2005. Despite this rising demand, however, the large majority of job openings will be due to replacement needs. Each year, tens of thousands of jobs will become available as workers transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. Because turnover is high, real estate positions should continue to be relatively easy to obtain. Not everyone is successful in this highly competitive field; many beginners become discouraged and subsequently leave the occupation. Welltrained, ambitious people who enjoy selling should have the best chance for success.

Sources of Additional Information:
Details on licensing requirements for real estate agents, brokers, and appraisers are available from most local real estate and appraiser organizations or from the state real estate commission or board.

For more information about opportunities in real estate work, contact: