Information about Becoming a Real Estate Appraiser in Massachusetts
The following information is provided as one resource to individuals interested in becoming a real estate appraiser in Massachusetts. We strongly recommend you utilize resources available on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Web site at www.mass.gov/dpl/boards/ra, in particular the Trainee Application and Information document available in the Applications and Forms section. Another valuable resource is the Appraisal Foundation’s Web site at www.appraisalfoundation.org.
The first step to becoming a real estate appraiser in Massachusetts is to obtain a Trainee license from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The only requirement for obtaining a Trainee license is the successful completion of appraisal specific education. Note: classes you may have taken in college or to obtain a real estate salesperson or broker license generally do not count towards this requirement. The only exception would be when these classes have been approved by the state licensing board, the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Appraisers.
A person needs 75 hours of appraisal specific education to obtain a Trainee license. This consists of three classes – Basic Appraisal Principles (30 hours), Basic Appraisal Procedures (30 hours) and National Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (15 hours). Students must attend all the sessions of each class and pass a written exam to receive credit.
Once the required education is completed, the next step is to submit an application to the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Appraisers. The application and other valuable information is included in the material available on its Web site as referenced above. Once you obtain a Trainee license you should download and read the Candidate’s Handbook from the State’s Web site as it will guide you in how to properly document your experience.
Information about obtaining a license in other New Engalnd states may be found on each state's web site by clicking the links below.
Connecticut
Maine
New Hampshire
Rhode Island
Vermont
