This website could be called “A Self Offense”resource in appraising!
This website idea was born in a lanai on a warm summer morning in Tampa, Florida. I was doing what I love best, researching appraisal methodology, as I do whenever an appraiser retains me for help. Each assignment seems unique, but they all have similar challenges. Why not publish some of this research on methodology theory?
For a moment I feared I might be contributing to what is commonplace. Here I am in the era of appraisal education. What could I possibly share with appraisers who had been valuating property and testifying since they were savvy enough to take field notes? Worse yet, many have taken appraisal courses. But I reasoned, colleagues seeking my services posed a wide range of questions that aspiring appraisers everywhere would like to ask but seldom do. Questions not answered by publications, forums, or most courses.
Perhaps it was an extraordinary setting - a lazy pond with fish jumping - or perhaps it was the sound of songbirds. Whatever the reason, I started that very day to build this resource.
I had considered authoring a book, but once a book is written, it is finished. Appraisal theory is an array of moving targets. Laws are changing - being overruled or developing constantly. Appraisers are discovering new areas of business that in turn demand rules - rules based on legal needs. Such a moving target is best presented in a manner that can be changed at will and quickly. That is why I chose the Internet.
Appraising should be a recognized profession. It can never achieve that status unless it embraces discipline. Yes, ethics are needed. Yes, basic valuation theory linked to economics is necessary. Yes, experience is important. Yes, product knowledge is important. But what is lacking is beyond the basics. Theory on how to tackle each appraisal assignment must be available to all professionals. That theory must be backed by real research as the time has lapsed for armchair experts who are sipping a drink to create valuation theory.
Since most appraisals, including the ubiquitous insurance appraisal, are ultimately legal documents, we need a resource for such requirements. What have the regulations, statutes and previous judicial opinions mandated as acceptable? Researching those requirements and presenting them in an understandable manner is the purpose of my two websites.
One is a website which has both a free course (my contribution) and an in-depth appraisal valuation theory course. Take the link in the menu above, Homes, and select the Appraising Demystified link.
However, this website allows you to ask methodology questions as part of the subscription.
Additionally, there are a series of postings that will show, for example, in detail how to digitally plot diamonds (we made this one available for review by guests so you can get an idea what we do), how to properly render PDF format appraisals for emailing, and many more insider how-to tips. And there are databases that are fully searchable for jewelry trademarks and those Italian marks - in fact, thousands of them. Find the mark and you do not have to think about how to state it in your appraisal - just copy and paste the sentence into your appraisal and get back to work instantly. This is, without a doubt, the best jewelry marks resource anywhere.
Regards,
Bill Hoefer
How much is the fee? A mere $200 per year for everything!
You can send money by snail mail or use PayPal.
As for Legal Advice - a Disclaimer: Although there are numerous case law citations, regulations, codes, etc. posted on this website, they are not intended to be legal advice. The opinions are strictly information. Before acting on any information provided by this website, consult with an attorney authorized to provide legal advice in the jurisdiction concerned and familiar with the subject matter involved.
