Career Advice: How to become a RE Appraiser?

[Brett V.]

Hi, everyone.

I'm interested in becoming a real estate appraiser (REA) in VA and/or WV. The classroom/exam requirements aren't a problem for me, but the issue is the apprenticeship requirement by both states. REA's typically don't take on apprentices in order to control competition in their service regions. And, in some cases, to the detriment local economies where a handful of them manage to gain a local monopoly. In one small town, near me, there is only one general appraiser approved to handle commercial property. Needless to say, he is backed up for months. It's so bad, I heard it is actually costing the town in economic growth. A typical "bread-and-butter" residential property takes up to three months to close due to wait times for appraisals.

How can I circumvent these protectionistic practices?

I've looked into reciprocity agreements between states and those -- at first glance at least -- seems to be the way to go.  One possible strategy would be to take the exams, and work in another geographical location (possibly a more competitive urban area) for the apprenticeship hours, sign a non-compete agreement with my boss stating that I'll leave their service region once I become licensed - if they even care, that is.  Reciprocate into my target "protected" market, and begin work as a REA.

Does that sound like a reasonable strategy to break into the industry?  Or are there other issues that I'm missing?  

Thank you for your time in reading through this. I know that, technically, this may not be the best place to post this (mods, please point me in the right direction!) But, I couldn't find a subforum that would seem to fit my question.  Also, from asking around my target market, it seems that the lenders, Agents/Brokers, and RE attorneys are having a tough time dealing with the appraisal delays, so I thought that this subforum may be a good start.

Thank you!