Appraiser
An appraiser is responsible for assessing the fair auction or wholesale value of merchandise, machinery, inventory, fixtures, equipment, land, and/or property held by business firms. Appraisers make decisions to determine exact monetary values for the purposes of approving loans, liquidizing assets of insolvent companies, qualifying credibility for insurance policies, and the settling of estates. An appraiser is responsible for properly and thoroughly examining all items and providing accurate estimates based upon current economic, market, and industrial trends. Appraisers must be able to evaluate property in many different ways and stay informed of all market movement.
Other requirements include: creating and submitting reports containing estimates and explanations to the client, insurance companies, banks or lending firms, creditors, attorneys, courts, government officials, and/or members of an estate.
A four-year college degree in an associated or suitable field is required to become an appraiser. Some appraisal firms may accept a combination of education and work experience in lieu of a four-year degree. Specific market knowledge and training is typically required or highly recommended. A strong background in business math, knowledge of depreciation calculation, and analytical and comparison skills is also necessary.
The typical average salary for an experienced appraiser is about $61,900 per year. Starting salaries pay an average of about $45,750 per year.
