What Is an ASA Appraiser?

Put simply, an appraiser is someone who is in the business of estimating the worth or value or quality of property (real estate, personal or intangible property) impartially and objectively.

But ASA-designated appraisers are much more. ASA-accredited appraisers-with their education, business experience and adherence to ethical practices-make the difference when consumers need independent, credible opinions of value on property.

Why Do Consumers Trust ASA Appraisers?
The AM/ASA initials after ASA members' names mean they

• Have the education, knowledge, skills, experience and peer support necessary to provide consumers with an independent, credible opinion of value on property-whether it's businesses, gems and jewelry, machinery and equipment, technical property, personal property or real property
• Are experienced (Almost half of ASA's members have more than 16 years of experience.)
• Accredited Members (AMs) have at least two years of full-time appraisal experience.
• Accredited Senior Appraisers (ASAs) have at least five years of full-time appraisal experience.
• Conform to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and adhere to a strict ethical code
• Are tested and graded every step of the way through courses imparting appraisal fundamentals, knowledge, ethics training and skills
• Undergo peer review

ASA-Accredited Appraisers Give You Results in Writing
ASA-designated appraisers clearly identify in a written appraisal report*

• information about the property and the purpose of the appraisal;
• the intended use of the appraisal (insurance, taxation, distribution, liquidation-value estimates vary depending on the intended use); and
• the type of value being estimated (mortgage finance, insurance claim, etc.).

Rely on ASA Professional Appraisers When You…

• Obtain specific insurance coverage
• Claim an insurance loss on personal property
• Settle an estate
• Obtain a mortgage
• Value property in a divorce settlement
• Claim a loss for tax purposes
• Itemize deductions for charitable contributions
• Evaluate personal property before sale
• Discover the value of heirlooms or collectibles
• Many other reasons

*ASA recommends that consumers store appraisal documents and a home inventory for insurance purposes in a safe deposit box and make a copy for home files