With 2024 just around the corner, we wanted to find out what goals real estate appraisers hope to achieve and where they plan to focus their efforts in the coming year. As part of our monthly survey series, we asked our appraisal community, “What is your top professional goal for 2024?” Many are planning to either get licensed/certified or work on growing their business. Read the full survey results below.
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What is your top professional goal for 2024?
Get licensed or certified (24%)
“Very close to my certified general license. Completed all classes in late 2023.”
“I’ve been away from appraising for several years and I want back in the swing of it.”
“For me, obtaining an appraisal license is going to be a goal achieved. I’ve helped with commercial, industrial and apartment appraisals a number of years ago.”
“I’m starting to feel like it’s finally my turn. What I mean is that the kids are grown and on their own, the pups have each other, and my hubby has his very busy and physical job…So now is the time, I could really make a go of my own career and not be at all beckons and calls…It’s time for me to finally apply my skills to my retirement and time for me to run my own company, since I’ve helped my loved ones run their own.”
McKissock has everything you need to launch and grow your career. Shop appraisal courses.
Grow my business (23%)
“As the lending side of the commercial appraisal business has declined, we are actively networking to increase our private party work for CPAs, lawyers, and estate planning professionals.”
“I need volume. It’s really slow for me…”
“Currently doing appraisal reviews related to eminent domain for DelDOT, PennDOT, and the WV Dept. of Highways. Would like to expand into MD and VA since I am also a Certified General Appraiser in those states.”
“I would like to grow our appraisal business, become more cost effective, and increase our presence in the workplace.”
Improve my work-life balance (11%)
“Since the pandemic, we have been doing the same or more work with fewer people, and it has seriously impacted the work/life balance of myself and other coworkers. In 2024, I want to invest some energy in myself and take a couple of interesting courses because I want to and not because I need the CEs.”
“Work less and play more. I was able to take some good steps towards this goal this past year by eliminating my furthest territory. Prior to that, I found myself driving there on the weekends mostly.”
Streamline my appraisal process (10%)
“Learn how to utilize technology to improve quality of my reports and support for data points.”
Maintain my current business (6%)
A small number of respondents said their main focus will be to maintain their current business in 2024, rather than growing it or making other changes.
“Just want to keep plugging away at appraising.”
Prepare for retirement (6%)
Only a small percentage of respondents to this monthly survey said their main goal for 2024 is to prepare for retirement. However, according to a larger study published in the 2023 Appraisal Salary Guide, up to 45% of appraisers have plans to retire in the next few years—especially Certified Residential Appraisers, Certified General appraisers, and those age 46 and up. This could present great opportunities for younger appraisers eager to break into the profession.
“I have been in this business for 40 years! It has been a blessing, and an interesting career. Because it’s very slow now, I am considering retiring next year.”
“Plan for the future, if you are preparing for retirement. Prepare your staff, have two trainees involved in their coursework and work experience—for your own transition and a smooth transition into retirement.”
Getting ready to retire? Find tips in our post, “Preparing for Retirement: How to Sell Your Business.”
Upgrade my appraisal license (5%)
“Complete my training for my Certified General Appraiser [license].”
“I am appreciative of the classes that McKissock offers as I have been able to take all of my classes to upgrade my license, now just need the experience hours and pass the test!”
Develop a niche specialty (3%)
Developing an niche specialty is one way to boost your appraisal business and stand out from the competition. Some examples of appraisal specialties include commercial appraisal, review appraisal, green home appraisal, and luxury appraisal.
Other (11%)
Some survey participants selected “Other” and wrote in their own responses. Their top professional goals for 2024 include:
“Finish my education requirements, then find a mentor.”
“Get signed up for PAREA.”
“Continue learning to code to improve my reports and efficiency.”
“Learning to code has cut my report time in half, and I’m certain it’s possible to cut it in half again and have an even better report.”
Achieve your career goals with McKissock
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your appraisal career, you need instructors who know how to survive and thrive in the profession. For 30 years, McKissock has been the leader in appraisal education. We have the largest online learning library with over 100+ courses taught by experts, plus flexible learning options to fit your busy schedule. Find the right education for you.
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