The independent real estate appraiser is being driven out of the business by the same forces that borrowed billions from the taxpayer in the form of a bailout, speculated in an over-leveraged derivatives market, and swallowed each other up after years of mismanagement. Why should anybody care? Because the housing recovery is dependent on transparency that we have not seen in more than a decade. Public Trust Betrayed: The Truth Behind the Real Estate Appraisal Industry emphasizes that there must be transparency and objectivity in the mortgage and evaluation process if we are to solve the current credit crisis and what we must change in the financial industry to prevent another economic meltdown. As a result of fraud, conflicts of interest, over-valuations, and lax underwriting standards, the entire lending industry must be examined and changed if any meaningful housing recovery is to be accomplished. 'Appraisal issues played a major role in the housing boom and bust. To get an insider's view of that historic and horrendous cycle -- and the troubling reality of where we are now -- read this book.' --Ken Harney, Syndicated Columnist, Washington Post Writers Group 'This is one man's story about the deceptions he saw in the home appraisal market, deceiving homeowners and lenders alike. It will open your eyes.' --Jane Bryant Quinn, author of Making the Most of Your Money NOW Author James Manning gives the reader rare insights into the pressures being placed on today's real estate appraiser in an easy-to-read format, a folksy delivery, and with real-life experiences sprinkled throughout.

Your step-by-step guide success as a real estate appraiser Real estate appraisers are in high demand and top earners can make a bundle. Whether you seek a full-time profession or a flexible part-time job,How to Get Started in the Real Estate Appraisal Business provides all the inside information to start making money, now. Add value to your career as you: Prepare for the tests and get licensed Find a mentor to help you get on your feet Choose between residential and commercial appraising Drum up business with proven networking and marketing techniques Make top dollar as an analyst Acquire the continuing education you need for long-term success Choose between residential and commercial appraising This handy guide also includes a glossary of vital terms, sample appraisal forms, and coverage of important licensing and legal regulations. Full of actionable advice, step-by-step guidance, and real-world insight, How to Get Started in the Real Estate Appraisal Business gets into the business-and heading to the top.

This reference book defines hundreds of terms related to buildings, properties, markets, regulations, and appraisal. Specialized sections cover property types, business valuation, international valuation, real estate organizations and professional designations, legal and regulatory aspects, uniform standards, information technology, measures and conversions, and architecture and construction. The architecture and construction section is heavily illustrated with black-and-white photographs and diagrams. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR.

Like no event in history, the real estate appraisal industry has been slandered, steered, and stomped into submission. Charged and convicted of a crime they did not commit. Big banking is leading a new revolution, taking real estate appraisers out of the mortgage lending process. Enter computerized home valuation services, being promoted as the "technology-based" saviors to the home buying public. The greatest sales job ever, sold to a real estate weary public who just wants to know they are paying a fair price. Discover the misinformation that is killing an entire industry that consumers need now more than ever before. Caveat Emptor!