Broker Price Opinions in Nevada

[Don Clark]

The problem here is that you certainly do have to have a good memory to tell the truth as an appraiser ... truth comes from memory. The quote from Judge Judy in this slightly different form, again makes sense in that particular context, but not for appraisers. A truthful answer to a SIMPLE question probably doesn't require a good memory, whereas for a concocted lie to hold up, would generally require a good memory of associated facts. Either way, "have to have" or "have", the quote makes sense only in the context it was intended for - but not for appraisal.

This fact should be taken to heart when appraisers get cross-examined in court on depositions they have made or appraisals they have done. If an appraiser doesn't have a good memory, then he would be best advised to simply say "I don't remember." Either way, he won't last long as an Expert Witness. Attorneys are often very aggressive in trying to trip appraisers on contradictions that result from insufficient memory.

In other words, I had to read your quote as "If you tell the truth, you don't have a good memory" - because the original simply hits the brick wall subconsiously with me as untrue - for an appraiser. The latter version, would work with Skippy's interpretation, i.e. nobody really tells the truth.

Bert Craytor, SRA

On this we agree.

But, i would caution any appraiser. Even if you know the truth, tell the truth, and have supporting evidence you are telling the truth, you will not always be believed. That is certainly true in a court setting, before some appraisal boards, and some other august body's within our profession. I know that from assisting others in their appearances before some boards, and my own dealings with some professional bodies. There are people who can tell a lie, compound that with false statements by others, and find you at fault although you have done nothing wrong.

And, I am not referring to my state board. Over the years, and after attending many board meetings, and knowing personally many board members, I believe they are one of the best state boards in the country. They are fair, and seek to find equitable solutions to problems. If anyone believes that I am just trying to stay on their good side, think again. I have appeared before them on behalf of complaints I have made, others have made against me, and I still contend the same thing.

 

[George Hatch]

The thing about appraiser credibility - even in court - is that it starts with acknowledging that it's more dependent on appraiser ethics than on appraiser competency. Given the choice, I'd much rather be considered an idiot than a liar.

I supposed that's why there are more people who consider me to be an idiot than a liar.

Credibility starts with establishing and promulgating reasonable expectations. I am not a hired gun, and I won't work for clients who have those expectations.

That's why I have no problems acknowledging the assumptions and limitations involved in my work, including the amount of subjective judgement that I use. To do otherwise creates the openings that opposing counsel will try to exploit.