Not all appraisers or appraisal firms are equal; as in most industries, levels of knowledge, experience, ethics, and professionalism can vary widely amongst its practitioners. Yet the question "how do I select a good appraiser?: can be a difficult one to answer for the average consumer. Below are several helpful questions to be asked when choosing an appraiser.

• Is the appraiser licensed or certified in the state in which you live and for how long?
• How long has the appraiser been in full time practice?
• What level of experience & education does the appraiser have with this type of property in this location?
• How many appraisals in the past year have the appraiser or his/her company performed in this neighborhood?
• What types of clients has the appraiser engaged (homeowners, estates, lenders, relocation companies)?
• Can the appraiser provide a client list and referrals?
• Has the appraiser ever been disciplined by the state, a lender, or been removed from a clients approved list?
• Has the appraiser ever settled in or out of court for claims against the appraiser or appraiser’s company?