How to Become an Appraiser in Arizona
If you want to know how to become an appraiser in Arizona or how to upgrade your current license, we’re outlining Arizona’s specific requirements for each credential. Once you know the requirements, McKissock has the state-approved qualifying education appraisal classes you need to reach your goals.
Arizona Appraiser License: Registered Trainee
How to become an appraiser in Arizona
To become a real estate appraiser in Arizona, the first thing you’ll need to do is become a Registered Trainee Appraiser. As a Trainee, you’ll work under the direct supervision of a qualified supervisory appraiser for at least 6 months to gain mandatory work experience. During this stage, you’ll learn how to evaluate properties, conduct research, and develop appraisal reports.
Follow these steps to become a Registered Trainee Appraiser in Arizona:
Step 1: Complete 79 hours of required appraisal education, including 75 hours of AQB Basic Qualifying Education and a 4-hour Supervisor-Trainee orientation course.
Step 2: Find a Certified Supervisory Appraiser who will sign on to oversee your on-the-job training.
Step 3: Submit your application and fingerprint background check to the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI).
Important: Verify all steps and requirements with the Arizona appraiser licensing agency. For more information, contact the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI) at 602.364.4457.
Arizona Registered Trainee Appraiser (79 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
75 QE Hours.
15-hr Nat’l USPAP Update or Equivalent.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hrs.
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hrs.
2015 AQB Supervisor/Trainee Course Requirement: Both the Trainee Appraiser and Supervisory Appraiser shall be required to complete a course that, at minimum, complies with the specifications for course content established by the AQB. The course must be completed by the Trainee Appraiser prior to obtaining a Trainee Appraiser credential, and completed by the Supervisory Appraiser prior to supervising a Trainee Appraiser.
Experience: N/A
College Education: N/A
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about how to become an appraiser in Arizona
Should I earn my Arizona appraiser license?
As an Arizona appraiser, you can build a thriving career that offers a flexible schedule and scalable growth while giving you more control over your earning potential. You can choose to work with appraisal management companies (AMCs) or connect with clients independently. Even during periods when the market slows down, appraisers are in demand for tasks like estate planning, divorce settlements, and tax assessments.
What does a real estate appraiser do?
An appraiser informs their client, such as a lender or property owner, of the current fair market value of a property. This information is primarily used by lenders to ensure the mortgage they issued isn’t more than the house is determined to be worth. Appraisers are also needed to determine a property’s value during estate planning, a divorce settlement, or a tax assessment.
An appraiser performs a comprehensive assessment of the property, considering lot size, square footage, amenities, and the quality and condition of the building materials. In addition to property details, the appraiser will also research sales of comparable properties, tax information, and location. Once they have their on-site observations and off-site research complete, they’ll use the information to to develop their professional opinion of value and draft their appraisal report.
How long does it take to become an appraiser in AZ?
The first step—becoming a Registered Trainee Appraiser—can be completed in as little as a few weeks. The full process to become a Licensed Residential, Certified Residential, or Certified General Appraiser in Arizona can be completed in a little over 6 months, 12 months, or 18 months, respectively.
With McKissock’s livestream and on-demand appraisal classes, you can complete your required education on a timeline that works for you.
What type of appraiser makes the most money in AZ?
Typically, the higher your license level, the more you can earn. The highest license level is the Certified General credential. Certified General Appraisers, also called commercial appraisers, usually earn the most money.
According to Salary.com, Arizona commercial appraisers earn as high as $151,491 per year.1 For comparison, Arizona home appraisers earn as high as $114,871 per year. 2
Helpful resources:
- Arizona Licensing Information
- AQB Appraiser Qualification Criteria
- Guide: Is an Appraisal Career Right for You?
- FAQ: How do I find a supervisory appraiser?
Sources cited:
Arizona Appraiser License: Licensed Residential
How to become a Licensed Residential Appraiser in Arizona
In the state of Arizona, a Licensed Residential Appraiser (also called a home appraiser) can appraise:
- Non-complex 1-4 residential units with a transactional value of less than $1 million
- Complex 1-4 residential units with a transaction value less than $250,000
- Vacant or unimproved land for which the highest and best use is for 1-4 family purposes
Follow these steps to become a Licensed Residential Appraiser in Arizona:
Step 1: Complete 154 total hours of required appraiser education (75 hours in addition to the 79 hours needed to become a Trainee).
Step 2: Gain 1,000 hours of supervised appraisal experience in no fewer than 6 months.
Step 3: Submit your application, licensing fee, and proof of education and experience to the Arizona DIFI.
Step 4: Pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Exam for Licensed Residential Appraisers.
You do not need any college education to become a Licensed Residential Appraiser.
Important: Verify all steps and requirements with the Arizona appraiser licensing agency. For more information, contact the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI) at 602.364.4457.
Arizona Licensed Residential Appraiser (154 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
Qualifying Education:
150 QE Hours.
15-hour Nat’l USPAP or Equivalent.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hours.
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hours.
Residential Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use – 15 hours.
Residential Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach – 15 hours.
Residential Sales Comparison and Income Approaches – 30 hours.
Residential Report Writing and Case Studies – 15 hours.
Experience: 1,000 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in not less than 6 months.
College Education: No college-level education required.
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about becoming a Licensed Residential Appraiser in Arizona
How much do home appraisers make in AZ?
According to Salary.com, residential real estate appraisers in Arizona typically earn between $50,377 and $101,491 per year, depending on experience level.1,2 The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the mean annual wage of Arizona property appraisers and assessors as $63,230.3 Glassdoor gives a much higher number, estimating that Arizona home appraisers earn an average yearly salary of $125,224.4
An appraiser’s income is influenced by their location, license level, years of experience, advanced skills or certifications, and the number of hours they work per week.
Can you be a home appraiser part-time in AZ?
Yes. While most appraisers choose this as their full-time career, you may decide to launch a part-time appraisal career if that schedule works best for you. Or you could start out part-time, then transition to full-time when you’re ready. When first starting out, many appraisers choose to keep their existing job while completing their appraisal education and training on the side.
Appraisers often cite the opportunity to have a flexible schedule and be their own boss among the top reasons they enjoy their career.
What are the continuing education requirements for Arizona appraisers?
All Arizona appraisers must renew their license every 2 years. Part of this process includes submitting proof of completing 28 hours of Arizona continuing education (CE) courses, including a 7-hour National USPAP Update Course, within each 2-year renewal period.
Helpful resources:
- Arizona Licensing Information
- Real Estate Appraiser Exam Prep
- Your Guide to an Appraisal License Upgrade
Sources cited:
- Appraiser (Residential Real Estate) Salary in Arizona (Salary.com)
- Appraiser Sr. (Residential Real Estate) Salary in Arizona (Salary.com)
- Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Property Appraisers and Assessors (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Residential Real Estate Appraiser Salaries in Arizona (Glassdoor)
Arizona Appraiser License: Certified Residential
Arizona Appraiser License: Certified Residential
In Arizona, Certified Residential Appraisers (also called home appraisers) are permitted to appraise all 1-4 unit residential properties, regardless of transaction value or complexity. They can also appraise vacant or unimproved land for which the highest and best use is for 1-4 family purposes.
Follow these steps to become a Certified Residential Appraiser in Arizona:
Step 1: Complete 204 total hours of required appraiser education (125 hours in addition to the 79 hours needed to become a Trainee).
Step 2: Gain 1,500 hours of supervised appraisal experience in no fewer than 12 months.
Step 3: Submit your application, licensing fee, and proof of education and experience to the Arizona DIFI.
Step 4: Pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Exam for Certified Residential Appraisers.
You must also meet one of the following college education criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in any field of study
- Associate degree in a field of study related to Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Economics, or Real Estate
- 30 semester hours of college credit in specified topics
- 30 semester hours of College Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations in specified topics
- Any combination of college credit or CLEP credit that includes all the specified topics
- Exception: No college education is required for Licensed Residential Appraisers who have been licensed for a minimum of 5 years and have been in good standing for the past 5 years.
Important: Verify all steps and requirements with the Arizona appraiser licensing agency. For more information, contact the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI) at 602.364.4457.
Arizona Certified Residential Appraiser (204 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
Qualifying Education:
200 QE Hours.
15-hour Nat’l USPAP or Equivalent.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hours.
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hours.
Residential Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use – 15 hours.
Residential Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach – 15 hours.
Residential Sales Comparison and Income Approaches – 30 hours.
Residential Report Writing and Case Studies – 15 hours.
Statistics, Modeling and Finance – 15 hours.
Advanced Residential Applications and Case Studies – 15 hours.
Appraisal Subject Matter Electives – 20 hours.
Experience: 1,500 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in not less than 12 months.
College Education:
1) Bachelor’s Degree in any field of study;
2) Associate’s Degree in a focused field of study, such as business, economics, or real estate;
3) Successful completion of 30 college semester credit hours in specified topics;
4) Successful completion of College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)1 exams equivalent to a minimum of 30 semester credit hours in specified subject matter areas; or
5) Any combination of #3 and #4 above that includes all of the topics identified.
6) A LICENSED RESIDENTIAL appraiser who has been licensed for a minimum of 5 years and in good standing for at least 5 years with no disciplinary actions that would affect the individual’s ability to appraise may upgrade to CERTIFIED RESIDENTIAL without completing any college coursework.
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about becoming a Certified Residential Appraiser in Arizona
Do I need a degree to become a Certified Residential Appraiser in AZ?
No, not necessarily. If you have been a Licensed Residential Appraiser in good standing for at least 5 years, you do not need any college-level education to upgrade to Certified Residential. Otherwise, you will need to have at least some college credits or CLEP exams. See above to learn about more options for meeting the college education prerequisite.
How much do Certified Residential Appraisers make in AZ?
According to Salary.com, the yearly salary for upper-level residential real estate appraisers in Arizona typically ranges from $69,812 to $101,491 but may be as high as $114,871.1 Glassdoor gives a higher number, estimating that Arizona residential appraisers make an average salary of $125,224 per year.2
Appraisal earnings can vary widely due to license level, location, years of experience, hours worked per week, and advanced skills or professional certifications.
Sources cited:
- Appraiser Sr. (Residential Real Estate) Salary in Arizona (Salary.com)
- Residential Real Estate Appraiser Salaries in Arizona (Glassdoor)
Helpful resources:
Arizona Appraiser License: Certified General
How to become a Certified General Appraiser in Arizona
In the state of Arizona, Certified General Appraisers (or commercial appraisers) are permitted to appraise all types of property, including residential, multi-family, and commercial property, as well as vacant land. This includes everything from strip malls to airports!
Follow these steps to become a Certified General Appraiser in Arizona:
Step 1: Complete 304 total hours of required appraiser education (225 hours in addition to the 79 hours needed to become a Trainee).
Step 2: Gain 3,000 hours of supervised appraisal experience in no fewer than 18 months, including 1,500 hours in non-residential property.
Step 3: Submit your application, licensing fee, and proof of education and experience to the Arizona DIFI.
Step 4: Pass the National Uniform Licensing and Certification Exam for Certified General Appraisers.
You must also hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.
Important: Verify all steps and requirements with the Arizona appraiser licensing agency. For more information, contact the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI) at 602.364.4457.
Arizona Certified General Appraiser (304 hours) – AQB recommended course order
Online Info
Qualifying Education:
300 QE Hours.
15-hour Nat’l USPAP or Equivalent.
Basic Appraisal Principles – 30 hours.
Basic Appraisal Procedures – 30 hours.
General Appraiser Market Analysis & Highest and Best Use – 30 hours.
General Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach – 30 hours.
General Appraiser Sales Comparison Approach – 30 hours.
General Appraiser Report Writing and Case Studies – 30 hours.
Statistics, Modeling and Finance – 15 hours.
General Appraiser Income Approach – 60 hours.
Appraisal Subject Matter Electives – 30 hours.
Experience: 3,000 hours of acceptable appraisal experience in no less than 18 months. A minimum of 1,500 hours of the required experience must be in non-residential appraisal work.
College Education: Must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
Online Limitations
Roster
Governing Agency
FAQs about becoming a Certified General Appraiser in Arizona
Why become a Certified General Appraiser in AZ?
Certified General Appraisers have no limits on their license, meaning they can appraise all types of real property. This offers you more opportunities to grow your business, diversify your revenue by offering a wider array of appraisal services, accept higher-paying appraisal assignments, and increase your annual income.
How much do commercial appraisers make in AZ?
According to Salary.com, commercial real estate appraisers in Arizona typically make between $44,238 and $134,346 but can earn as high as $151,491 per year.1,2 Glassdoor estimates that commercial appraisers in Arizona make an average salary of $122,350 per year.3
Commercial appraisal income can vary widely due to experience level, location, number of hours worked per week, and specialty area (e.g., commercial/industrial, agricultural, hospitality).
Helpful resources:
Sources cited:
- Appraiser I (Commercial Real Estate) Salary in Arizona (Salary.com)
- Appraiser IV (Commercial Real Estate) Salary in Arizona (Salary.com)
- Commercial Real Estate Appraiser Salaries in Arizona (Glassdoor)