Which Colorado Real Estate Appraisal Courses Do I Need?

If you have no prior qualifications, you should start with the Colorado Basic Real Estate Appraisal License Course Package. It offers you the best start to your real estate appraisal education at a significant discount compared to other schools. After completion, VanEd can help you satisfy any remaining requirements and prepare for the Colorado real estate appraiser license exam!

How to Become an Appraiser in Colorado

To become a Colorado real estate appraiser, follow these steps:

1. Meet Basic Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.

2. Complete Pre-Licensing Education:

• Trainee License: Complete 75 hours of basic appraisal education, including courses on basic appraisal principles, and procedures, and the 15-hour National USPAP course.
• Licensed Appraiser: Complete an additional 75 hours of education, totaling 150 hours.
• Certified Residential Appraiser: Complete a total of 200 hours of education.
• Certified General Appraiser: Complete a total of 300 hours of education.

3. Gain Required Experience:

• Licensed Appraiser: 1,000 hours of experience in no less than 6 months.
• Certified Residential Appraiser: 1,500 hours of experience in no less than 12 months.
• Certified General Appraiser: 3,000 hours of experience in no less than 18 months, with at least 1,500 hours in non-residential appraisals.

4. Pass the Appraisal Exams:

• Pass the national and state-specific portions of the appraisal exam for the desired license level.

5. Apply for the License:

• Submit a completed application form to the Colorado Board of Real Estate Appraisers.
• Pay the required fees.
• Provide proof of education and experience.

6. Maintain and Upgrade Your License:

• Complete continuing education requirements every renewal period (every two years).
• 28 hours of continuing education, including the 7-hour National USPAP Update Course.

7. Adhere to Ethical Standards:

• Follow the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

How Long Does It Take To Become an Appraiser in Colorado?

The time it takes to become a Colorado home appraiser can vary depending on the level of licensure you're aiming for and how quickly you can complete the required education and gain the necessary experience.

Here's a breakdown of the typical timelines for each level of appraiser licensure:

1. Appraiser Trainee:

• Education: 75 hours of qualifying education can typically be completed in a few weeks to a few months, depending on your schedule and the availability of courses.
• Experience: As a trainee, you will work under the supervision of a licensed appraiser to gain experience.

2. Licensed Residential Appraiser:

• Education: An additional 75 hours (total of 150 hours), which can take several more months.
• Experience: 1,000 hours of supervised experience, which must be completed in no less than 6 months.

3. Certified Residential Appraiser:

• Education: An additional 50 hours (total of 200 hours).
• Experience: 1,500 hours of supervised experience, required to be completed in no less than 12 months.

4. Certified Colorado General Appraiser:

• Education: An additional 100 hours (total of 300 hours).
• Experience: 3,000 hours of supervised experience, including at least 1,500 hours in non-residential appraisals, which must be completed in no less than 18 months.

Overall, from starting as a trainee to becoming a licensed or certified appraiser in Colorado, it can take anywhere from 6 months to several years. The total time will depend on how quickly you complete the educational requirements, pass the necessary exams, and accumulate the required hours of practical experience.

How Much Does an Appraisal License Cost in Colorado?

The cost of obtaining an appraisal license in Colorado can vary based on several factors, including the level of Colorado appraiser license you're seeking and the educational provider you choose for your Colorado real estate appraiser training.

Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with becoming a home appraiser in Colorado:

1. Education Costs:

• The pre-licensing education courses can range from $200 to $1,000 or more, depending on the level of licensure and the education provider.
  Prices for the required courses typically increase with the level of certification due to the greater number of hours needed.

2. Examination Fees:

• The fee for taking the appraisal examination varies but is typically around $100 to $150 per attempt.

3. Application and Licensing Fees:

• The application fee for initial licensure can range from $200 to $400.
• The fee structure may vary depending on the type of appraisal license (Trainee, Licensed, Certified Residential, or Certified General).

4. Background Check Fee:

• A background check is required, and the fee for this can be around $50.

5. Continuing Education:

• Continuing education is required to maintain your license. The cost for these courses can vary, typically ranging from $100 to $500 every two years, depending on the number of hours and courses you take.

The total cost to become a licensed or certified appraiser in Colorado, including education, exams, and initial licensure fees, can range from approximately $1,000 to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific path and choices you make regarding education providers and study materials.

Colorado Board of Real Estate Appraisers

Marcia Waters, Director
1560 Broadway, Suite 925
Denver, CO 80202
303-894-2166 x319
[email protected]