The Appraisal Apprenticeship Program
About Appraisal Apprenticeship Program
On April 24, 2024, John Ladd, the Secretary, approved the launch of a new appraisal apprenticeship program, marking it as the first public initiative of its kind in the country. This two-year program will focus on various aspects of land usage, including rural and urban appraising, with a special emphasis on farmland, easements, rights of way and land mix appraisals.
The program aims to create career opportunities and address critical workforce shortages in the government sector, across county, city, state, and federal agencies where less than 2% of the workforce is African American, and over 55% of the current real estate and appraisal employees are expected to retire in the next five to ten years.
Over 65% of the industry is over 50 and less than 7% under 35 years old. Over 95% of the industry is white while less than 2% is black, 90% of that 2% does residential. Native Americans are less than 1% of the current make up of appraisers.
Goals and Objectives
The primary goal of the 10K MA/ 1890 Workforce Development Program is to close the wealth gap through accurate appraisals and valuations based on modern data science valuation techniques. Targeting rural and urban underserved communities while teaching them using Critical Hope Theory giving them a sense of belonging and support setting them up for long term success. Increase the number of qualified appraisers by teaching them and establishing a strong foundation emphasizing evidenced base data driven analysis.
Initially aimed at advocating for African Americans including black farmers, the program has expanded to include Native American and Hispanic communities, addressing the broader issue of equity & wealth loss across these groups.
The program highlights the severe financial impact of outdated subjective appraisals contributing to racial bias in the appraisal process. While African Americans lose $300 billion annually, the combined losses for Native Americans and the federal government amount to trillions due to a lack of updated appraisals over the past 30 years. For example refer to a recent case in Seattle Wa. BNSF Railway vs Swinomish Tribe. The Tribe was awarded $400 Million Dollars for trespassing. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill will require appraisals for highways, bridges, and fiber optics creating opportunities for realty/appraisal professionals.
Partnerships and Future Plans
The program will initially collaborate with federal agencies, starting with the USDA Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Policy Center, USDA Rural Development, and USDA Office for Civil Rights Enforcement, USDA Policy Center, Red Bib, Edelen Renewables, Southern Risk Management Education Center, and Federation of Southern Co-Ops, Oklahoma Black Research for Small Farmers. The emphasis is on creating a sustainable succession plan to replace the retiring workforce and to ensure continuous, updated appraisals.
Online Courses
To qualify for the program students must take the 1st three US Forest Service Courses: Asynchronous, General Special Uses, Water Rights 101, Special Uses for Line Officers, and Introduction to Real Estate Market Analysis. We will be able to offer online synchronous courses nationwide with our partner American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. We will also be able to provide drone training with our partner Drone University & Journey Drones. We will be offering modern and updated market analysis utilizing data driven evidence-based data science analysis.
Conclusion
This initiative addresses a critical need for modernization of the appraisal industry, aiming to close the wealth gap by alleviating the systemic undervaluation and equity loss faced by minority communities while also ensuring a dynamic and well-trained workforce for the future.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
1. Property Valuation and Reconsideration of Value
Are you concerned that your property has been undervalued in appraisals? We are dedicated to supporting rural and urban landowners, including Black & Minority Farmers, in advocating for the Reconsideration of Value.
How We Help: We provide expert advice and guidance on appealing property appraisals to ensure your property is accurately valued.
2. Heirs Property Training & Estate Management
We are collaborating with the Policy Center at Alcorn State and the Heirs Property Center from South Carolina to offer specialized training on Heirs Property.
Key Focus:
- Understanding the importance of properly valuing your estate.
- Establishing a baseline for your estate to ensure future growth and preservation.
- Exploring the Highest & Best Use of your property through evidence-based, market-driven analysis.
- Potential Uses for Your Land Include:
- Production of Hemp
- Solar Panel Farms
- Farm-to-Table Capabilities through Red-Bib
- Agri-Hood Mixed-Use Wellness Developments
We’ll guide you through the process of maximizing your land’s profitability while preserving its legacy.
3. Appraisal Courses & Education
We’re dedicated to advancing the next generation of appraisers by offering courses and degree programs through universities and extension programs.
Appraisal Courses: Available through Extension or Continuing Education programs at accredited colleges.
Degrees: Major and Minor degrees approved by the Appraisal Qualifications Board (AQB) to provide professional training.
New Initiative:
Appraisal Apprenticeship Program: A career pathway alternative for those who wish to pursue a career in appraisal without attending traditional college, available to individuals in both rural and urban areas.
4. Promoting Career Pathways in Appraisal
We’re introducing Appraisal Apprenticeships as a viable alternative career pathway, especially for those who may not want to attend college.
This program offers hands-on training in both rural and urban areas, providing valuable experience for individuals interested in becoming professional appraisers.
5. Social Media Updates & Branding
Please note:
When you visit our Instagram Tab, you may notice our old 10K Logo being displayed. We are in the process of updating our branding across social media platforms, including Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). Stay tuned for the new look!
Get Involved & Stay Updated
We are passionate about empowering home owners, landowners, farmers, and future appraisers. Whether you’re interested in our training programs, career pathways, or reconsideration of value, property valuation services, we’re here to help.