What is an appraiser?

An appraiser is a professional with the expertise and credentials needed to evaluate property. While there is no license for personal property appraisers (as with real estate), appraisers should have taken the Uniform Standards in Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) course within the past 24 months. USPAP is the guidelines set for appraisers by The Appraisal Foundation. Read more about USPAP here. 

Why hire an Appraisers Association member?

The Appraisers Association of America is an international organization based in New York City with members in cities across the country as well as in Canada, Europe and Asia. In a field with no degree and no license, membership in the Appraisers Association of America is one of the most important credentials to look for in a personal property appraiser. Our members are USPAP compliant and known for the highest standards of ethics, conduct and professionalism. Professional members of our Association are in one of four categories: Certified Member, Life Certified Member, Accredited Member, and Life Accredited Member. Certified is the highest level of membership and a Certified Member always has a designation of AAA after their name indicating that they have particular expertise in a specified area.

About the Appraisal Profession

In the appraisal profession, there are five major categories: personal property, real property (real estate), business valuation, machinery and equipment, and gems and jewelry. Although the organization has members in several of these areas, the majority of our members are personal property appraisers specializing in the fine and decorative arts, jewelry, and household contents. Their areas of specialization range from paintings and drawings, to clocks and watches, to furniture and ceramics. Members frequently specialize in more than one area, and many are certified experts in more than one area. Our members provide appraisals for purposes of insurance, estate tax, charitable donation, equitable distribution, liquidation, purchase, and sale.

Appraiser's Training

There are several routes you can take if you are interested in becoming an appraiser, including completing the Comprehensive Appraisal Studies Program (CASP). Click to learn more about what opportunities exist for those interested in becoming professional appraisers and members of the Appraisers Association!