In The Appraisal Foundation’s (TAF) September Newsletter, TAF President Kelly Davids shared some key information she obtained from listening sessions she attended over the past several months.

“This time absorbing the thoughts, concerns, and ideas of stakeholders from every corner of the appraisal profession, including consumers, their advocates, users of appraisal services, and regulators, has been invaluable,” Davids said in the newsletter. “I am so inspired that this profession, which may appear small from the outside, is packed with so much talent and people who have such a passion for what they do. It has only strengthened my resolve to pursue opportunities that pave the way for the next generation to be a part of this exciting field.”

Davids added that from all of her conversations, she gained valuable insights about how TAF can direct its collective efforts to invigorate the profession. These include:

• Developing innovative strategies that attract new entrants to the field,
• Expanding the dream of entering the profession to previously unengaged, diverse communities through creating robust and seamless pathways for students at HBCUs and to other MSIs (minority student institution) and veterans,
• Seeking solutions to the problems in the profession instead of sowing division or casting blame,
• Creating resources for consumers and appraisers that harness the power of new technologies like artificial intelligence,
• Harmonizing qualification requirements across state lines to promote reciprocity,
• Bringing together the foremost experts on emerging issues to engage participants on developing solutions to complex problems, and
• Supporting the work of the AQB in thoroughly examining the Criteria by engaging leading consultants in the field of work force development and others.

“As a convener, The Appraisal Foundation occupies a unique position in the appraisal profession, and the time is ripe for us to harness the combined expertise and resources of the talented groups and individuals who I know can work together to transform this exciting field,” Davids said.

“By working together, I believe that we can enact new programs that open up the world of appraisal and engage the next generation,” she added. “By ensuring that all pathways into the profession are open, confronting the big issues facing the profession, and demystifying the Criteria, we can ensure appraisers are meaningfully qualified and their work contributes to the integrity and accuracy of appraisals.”