Appraisal Institute

[Anthem]

I am considering applying for an Associate Membership and would like some feedback.

First off how are the MAI and SRA designations achieved?

Are the other membership benefits i.e. educational material and seminars
worth the fee?


My membership with NAREA is up, although they sent me some good educational material I am looking form something more extensive. I have always got the impression that Members of the Institute are up to date and well informed.

Thanks in Advance!

 

[Dick Hemry GAA]

also consider NAIFA. Really good my son says.

 

[Ray Miller]

Joined AI last year. I like their courses and have taken a couple. I don't think that I will complete a MAI and SRA designations, just because of my age and some other things that I want to do with my time.

I also be long to ASFMRA. I like some of there educational programs. Again I don't think I will complete any dsignations however. I use there information for farms, ranches and farmetts.

I also understand ASA has some good programs.

 

[Rick Kulman]

Simply put, Education, Experience, Demonstration Appraisal, and Comprehensive Examination (MAI designation).

The attached link on the Appraisal Institute web site summarizes the requirements and schooling for both the MAI and SRA designations.

http://www.appraisalinstitute.org/join/Mai_Sra_sum.asp


Set a realistic timetable for completing the requirements and STICK TO IT.

From what I hear locally, the biggest hurdle appears to be the demo because most people keep putting it off. Treat it as another assignment. Just make sure all of the requirements are followed and that the i's are dotted and the t's crossed.

The cost is not inexpensive but in the long run it will have been well worth the expense.

Rick

 

[Restrain]

The SRA has been highly devalued by the AI to the point that it is effectively worthless. Note: I'm a former SRA (1986). Unless you intend to become a commercial appraiser, or are in an area that really requires the MAI for high-dollar appraisals, it's not worth it.

The NAIFA dues are less than half, similarly recognized, and, once designated, gives you two paid education days a years. This covers my CE so I'm out very little extra money for CE.

Take a look around and see who's active in your area, and go visit the meetings. Go with the one that is active and where you feel comfortable.

 

[george foster]

Agree w/ RStrahan. Was a dues paying candidate/Associate member for 10 years. Started with Society of Real Estate Appraisers. Voted against Society/Institute merger. Institute trashed the SRA residential designation. $3000k in dues and they never did a thing for me. Your dues go to Chicago fat-cats.

AI was a major player in the disbanding of the FHA/HUD fee panel system. After 12 years on the panel, I never received another piece of designated work. Thank you very much AI.

Their newsletter is like it's written by people living on another planet. Totally out of touch. Henry Harrisons's mailings were fare more relevant. OK I guess if your into commercial. Too snobby and high/horse for my tastes.

Plus you have adhere to whole other set of rules & regs in addition to USPAP.

 

[xmusienb]

I'm taking the class that AI offers on the new 1004 form. Their classes seem okay. I won't join AI, though.

 

[Oregon Doug]

Preston - I've got an old SREA and an RM (later converted to an SRA) laying around here somewhere. Hardly ever used & in pretty cood condition - I would be willing to sell 'em cheap - maybe trade 'em off for a case of long necks.

Interested? Now you know what they are worth.

Oregon Doug

 

[Anthem]

Thanks to all who replied, I would like to look into the NAIFA but I remember reading that they don't have a Southern California Chapter.

 

[Restrain]

Preston: So start one.