How quickly a year passes. Was it almost year ago that I sat down to write my first article for this publication? In that article, I talked about my career as an appraiser and the changes to the profession over the past 25 years. Appraising seemed so simple back then. You didn't even have to have a license. If asked if I would go back to those days, I'd probably say no. The technology we have today makes our jobs so much easier and it keeps getting better. What would we do without computers and the internet?
I'd like to thank all the members of MBREA's board of trustees, committee chairpersons and the many members of the MBREA who contributed to help make this past year a success for the MBREA and for me. Ellen McDonald chaired the marketing and membership committee. Her committee was successful and promoting the MBREA and recruiting new members. Paul Sullivan chairs the expo and program committee. His committee gave us several outstanding Breakfasts with the Experts seminars and hosted the 20th Annual New England Appraiser's Expo. Chairman Rich Goulet, MRA of the designation committee was successful in getting more members on track to receive designations. Our education chairman, Greg Accetta, MRA and his committee have been successful with their plans for new course development. A special thanks needs to go Allen Cohen for all the time he and his government affairs committee have spent working toward getting legislation passed that will help all appraisers in the state. Our newest chairman is Jonathan Asker, RA. He is working with a new committee that is looking into the issue of the shortage of appraisers. There are many members on these committees who have given their time and shared their expertise. I am grateful to you all and hope that you will continue to find the time to keep the MBREA a strong and a nationally respected appraisal organization.
The year started slow. Then the interest rates dropped and it has been full speed ahead. The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act was signed into law. The HVCC is now history, but many of its provisions will be with us for many years to come. Now the Fed wants our comments of the Interim File Rule which will profoundly shape the future of our profession. Now more than ever, you should become a member of an appraisal organization. The MBREA is very fortunate to have both members and an executive vice president that are active on the state and national level. They keep the membership on top the changes. Our members are among the best informed in the industry. Isn't it time you joined the MBREA? If you mention my name or the name of a member you know, you will get the new member discount currently being offered through the end of the year.
On behalf of the officers, trustees and staff of the MBREA, I would like to wish you a joyous holiday season.
Gary Minnehan, RA, is the 2010 president of MBREA and president at Affiliated Appraisal, Abington, Mass.