Getting involved - Improving outlook, business and profession

The great Billie Holiday once sang "All of me, why not take all of me"? Many appraisers might share those same feelings though not about a tempestuous relationship but about a tempestuous profession. From all sides, the appraisal profession seems in flux and under pressure and one cannot open an email nor have a conversation without hearing more discouraging news. More regulations, lower fees, more disciplinary actions...it's no wonder the profession is "graying!" More so from the stress than the lack of new appraisers entering the field, it appears. Surely there must be some good news? In fact, if one takes a few minutes to observe around them, there is quite a lot to feel positive about. To start, we can take a look in our own backyard. This week, the MBREA holds its annual Expo featuring presentations from industry leaders, outstanding networking opportunities and a chance to see the local and regional appraisal industry in its finest setting. Besides the annual Expo, the MBREA offers on-going continuing educational classes, free member workshops, a web forum to communicate and discuss issues with peers and the chance to benefit from the other numerous events and offerings that make the MBREA one of the premier professional associations for appraisers in the United States. If you are not a member, consider joining and if you are a member, consider getting more involved. It is almost guaranteed that your business will benefit as you help benefit your profession. On a broader national scale, there are other positive indications that appraisers are weathering the storm. Numerous local and regional associations and coalitions are forming to represent and defend professional appraisers. Legislation favorable to appraisers is seeing the light of day and individually and collectively appraisers are finding solutions to working with AMC and lender demands, unrealistic value expectations from the public and real estate agents, and adverse regulation. Many appraisers are thinking outside the box and finding reliable income streams by working with lawyers, local community lenders and other sources. Both individual appraisers and their associations are finding assistance and support from knowledgeable attorneys, insurance professionals and others engaged in risk management and educational services. There are some fine publications and websites available as well to assist the appraiser on a variety of practice matters. Regardless of your views of whether the housing market is improving or not, many appraisers are finding ways to improve their skills, their methods of operation and ultimately their success. It may take some effort and maybe a different way of thinking but by getting involved with groups like the MBREA and by taking advantage of the many other resources available, one can indeed find success and satisfaction in today's appraisal world. John Torvi is vice president of marketing and sales at the Herbert H. Landy Insurance Agency in Needham, Mass. and chair of the MBREA's marketing and membership committee.