My Appraisal career began at a residential appraisal firm in the early to mid-1980s, a time prior to the advent of computers, digital cameras, and laser measuring devices, as well as State licensing. All data was typed onto cardstock forms on a typewriter, all film was processed at a Camera store, and all photos were hand-sorted and pasted onto cardstock. Finally, one photocopy was kept in-house, and 3 photocopies were forwarded to the client via U.S. mail. Times certainly have changed, and I’m thankful that laborious process is behind us!
In the late 1980s, I attained a B.S. in Marketing and then worked at a Commercial Real Estate Appraisal firm for two years. In the early 1990s, I returned to a residential appraisal firm and attained a Certified Residential License with the State of California, Office of Real Estate Appraisers (OREA, now the Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers or BREA). This license level allows for appraisal of any 1-4 family property without regard to transaction value or complexity (includes $1m+); and non-residential property with a transaction value up to $250,000. My primary coverage areas were San Francisco and Marin Counties until the late 1990s when my coverage areas transitioned to Sonoma and Napa Counties.
Continuing education is an essential aspect of maintaining my license, so new course hours are accumulated yearly. Attending MLS Broker’s Tours allows me to see the inside of the homes that I might eventually use as comparables. Being a part of your local community is important, and I am a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Pink Fringe, and the Real Estate Appraiser’s Association-North Bay (REAA-NB). I have strong work ethics, take pride in my work, and produce reports with great attention to detail. As such, a very small percentage of time is spent on Lender conditions. A favorite saying: “It is what it is.” Appraisers don’t create value, the market dictates value. I'm happy to assist with your Appraisal needs, and look forward to working with you.