Appraisers' Free Forum

Edd Gillespie wrote:....... Keep your self respect and work for fees that you think reflect your value. Also, even thought you are not your brother's keeper, do remember that if you covet low fee work you will further weaken the profession you have joined.

Was gonna say it myself, but Edd said it first (& better)!

After working for a number of outfits I knew what most appraisers in my region were charging. It's smart business to know what the competition is charging and easy enough to ferret out.

Problem is...WAY TOO MUCH new blood has come into the business who're willing to work for 25-80% less than we were able to charge in '94.

I didn't start a business to make less money than I did 13 years ago...so I bailed. Caught another train to financial independence...appraising wasn't cutting it.

I know it's not what newbies would want to hear, but you need to understand what's transpiring in your vocation of choice. PERHAPS...perhaps with the new requirements coming on line within months (college education requirements) things will change in the future Time will tell & I've got less of it everyday.

When I first started in training I just knew I could get business by being cheaper than the other area appraisers, after I got licensed.

Being involved with good mentors, I realized that was not the true answer to gaining clients (at least in my area), nor the road I would travel.

Quality work is still the expectation (luckily) around here.

If you do quality work (or not) and do it for low fees you are hurting yourself and the profession, IMO.

In the market I work fees appear to range from 250.00 to 450.00 for SFR.

As a new guy on the block I have gotten work in the higher end of this range and presented a quality report (IMO) with the time to do so, because I accepted less

assignments. The income stream is similar to more work for less pay, and I know which avenue I like best.