
As part of our monthly survey series, we asked our community of real estate appraisers, “When choosing a trainee appraiser, what factors do you consider most important?” According to respondents, trainees do not necessarily need to have previous experience in the real estate industry. Factors like motivation, communication skills, problem-solving skills, and education are the top things that supervisors look for when choosing a trainee appraiser. Read the full survey results below.
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When choosing a trainee appraiser, what factors are most important?

1. Demonstrated motivation and willingness to learn
“I feel that drive, motivation, the desire to help others, and the community, are good factors for a trainee. I also feel at no matter what age, if you are willing to learn something new, you create excitement along with a fresh perspective to work.”
“Willingness to learn is important. Willingness to put in the work to master the art of real estate appraisals.”
2. Good communication and interpersonal skills
“Good communication skills and work ethics are a must.”
3. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
“As long as someone is motivated to learn and has problem-solving skills, they can be exposed to the real estate industry and take the coursework to be an excellent trainee appraiser!”
4. Completed qualifying education coursework
Finishing your appraisal qualifying education (QE) coursework before applying for jobs as a trainee appraiser is a great way to get a leg up on the competition and show supervisors that you are serious about pursuing a career in appraisal.
McKissock Learning offers flexible, affordable appraisal license courses taught by industry experts. Browse QE course packages.
5. Previous experience in the real estate industry
Some supervisors do consider previous real estate experience to be…