Certified General Appraiser
The Certified General Appraiser certification qualifies individuals to appraise all types of real property. Appraisers with this certification can assess residential, commercial, industrial, and other properties.
Total Cost
Estimated Budget
Median Salary
Annual Earnings
Job Growth
10-Year Outlook
Training Hours
Total Program Duration
Who Needs This Credential?
This certification is necessary for appraisers who wish to provide appraisal services for high-value or diverse property types, including commercial real estates and large residential developments.
Reciprocity varies by state; some states allow appraisers certified in one state to practice in another with minimal additional requirements, while others may require further examination or education.
Requirements
To become a Certified General Appraiser, individuals must meet specific education and training requirements, pass an examination, and adhere to background checks. This certification allows for the appraisal of all types of real property.
- Minimum Age
- 18
- Minimum Education
- Bachelor's degree or higher
- Training Hours
- 300 hours of specific appraisal education courses
- Background Check
- Includes criminal history and professional background verification
Other Requirements
How to Become Certified General Appraiser Certified
The process to become a Certified General Appraiser involves several structured steps, typically taking around 2 to 3 years, depending on prior experience and commitment to completing educational and practical requirements. The path includes formal education, field experience, examination, and application for licensure.
Complete Required Education
Aspiring appraisers must complete 300 hours of appraisal-specific education, including courses on appraisal principles, procedures, and USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice).
Choose accredited schools or online platforms approved by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB).
Accumulate Experience Hours
Obtain 3,000 hours of appraisal experience over a minimum of 30 months, with at least 1,500 hours of non-residential appraisals. This experience must be under the supervision of a certified appraiser.
Document all experience meticulously to ensure smooth verification process.
Pass the AQB Certified General Exam
Candidates must pass the AQB Certified General Examination, which tests knowledge on general appraisal methods, techniques, and ethical and professional standards.
Invest in comprehensive study guides and consider taking preparatory classes.
Apply for State Certification
Submit an application for certification to the relevant state board. This includes providing proof of education, experience, and passing the examination.
Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Continuing Education
Once certified, general appraisers must complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification. Requirements vary by state but typically include 28 hours of coursework every two years.
Plan your continuing education early to take advantage of diverse course offerings.
Cost Breakdown
The total costs for becoming a Certified General Appraiser vary based on training, state fees, and other requirements. Key drivers of cost variation include the quality and length of training courses and state-specific fees. Financial aid options are not typically available, but some employers may offer sponsorship.
💰 Financial Aid Available
Some employers may cover costs related to the certification process, especially for employees expected to perform appraisals regularly.
Salary & Career Outlook
Entry Level
$45,000
Median Salary
$65,420
Experienced
$90,000
Job Outlook: 3.8%
The growth in demand for Certified General Appraisers is driven by the steady real estate market and the need for accurate property valuations. As the housing market continues to evolve, appraisers play a crucial role in ensuring fair property assessments, which is essential for both buyers and lenders.
Exam Information
The Certified General Appraiser exam assesses the competency required to appraise both residential and commercial properties. It features a written test structured around federal guidelines and industry standards. Candidates should prepare by studying appraisal principles, market analysis, and property valuation.
Certified General Appraiser Examination
Administered by Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB) through various state licensing boards • Fee: $350
Career Advancement Paths
Industry Insights
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
Certified General Appraisers Face Modest Growth Amidst AI Integration
Current Employment
—
Projected
—
Growth Rate
+3.1%
New Positions
—
What's Driving Demand
The Certified General Appraiser profession's growth is driven by consistent demand across real estate markets coupled with technological enhancements that streamline appraisal tasks.
The Certified General Appraiser profession is set to experience a modest growth rate of 3.1% from 2024 to 2034, as current employment numbers at 169,956,100 are projected to rise to 175,167,900. This growth reflects a steady, if not explosive, increase, indicative of stable demand but also hinting at market saturation and the rising influence of technology in the sector. The integration of AI and automation is poised to reshape this profession significantly. AI tools are already beginning to automate routine property appraisal tasks such as data collection and analysis, potentially freeing appraisers to focus on more complex evaluations and client interactions. However, those who fail to adapt to these technological advancements may find themselves at a disadvantage. Demographically, an aging population and evolving immigration policies could influence market dynamics, potentially increasing demand for appraisal services in booming real estate markets or regions with high retirement rates. For new entrants considering this field, starting early with AI tools could offer a significant edge over competitors.
Long-Term Outlook
AI & Automation
medium disruption riskAI's role in the appraisal industry is expanding, handling data-heavy tasks like market analysis and trend prediction. Early adopters of AI technologies stand to gain a competitive advantage by focusing on specialized, high-value aspects of appraisal that AI cannot fully replicate, such as nuanced market insights.
Already in progress
Demographics
An aging population and nuanced shifts in urbanization are influencing the demand for certified appraisers, particularly in areas with high rates of real estate turnover and retirement communities.
Key factor: Aging population
Policy & Regulation
Changing immigration policies and updates in property laws could significantly impact the demand for appraisal services, depending on regional legislative outcomes.
Industry Shifts
The appraisal industry is seeing increased use of digital and remote appraisal methods, driven by both technological advancements and recent shifts towards remote work and transactions.
Top Skills
Critical Thinking
85/100Active Learning
78/100Judgment and Decision Making
82/100Bottom Line
Individuals entering the appraisal field should focus on integrating AI tools and continuing education to remain competitive and adaptable in a slowly growing, technology-driven market.
State-by-State Variations
Requirements for becoming a Certified General Appraiser vary by state, primarily in terms of education hours, experience hours, and examination specifics.
Most Strict
Most Accessible
Renewal Requirements
Certified General Appraisers must renew their certification periodically to ensure compliance with updated regulations and maintain their ability to practice. Renewal typically involves completing continuing education and paying a fee. Staying current is necessary to uphold professional standards and meet legal requirements.
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Cost
$300-$500
CE Hours
28 hours
CE Topics: Ethics, Appraisal Laws, Market Analysis
Late renewal may incur additional fees and require extra continuing education credits.
Get Started
Ready to pursue Certified General Appraiser? Find programs, connect with counselors, and explore your options.
Talk to a Counselor
Get personalized guidance on your certification path
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities.
Recommended Resources
Certified General Appraiser Exam Prep Practice Test
Practice questions for the Certified General Appraiser Examination exam.
Certified General Appraiser Study Guide
Comprehensive study guide covering all Certified General Appraiser exam topics.
Certified General Appraiser Certification All-in-One
Everything you need to prepare for Certified General Appraiser certification.
As an Amazon Associate, CredentialGuide earns from qualifying purchases.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.