General Appraiser Report Writing & Case Studies provides instruction in effectively communicating a sound analysis of selected parts of a valuation. The course addresses USPAP requirements and the three types of writing most often used in appraisal reports: descriptive, numerical, and analytical. Lectures on writing principles, discussions of various sections of the appraisal report, and in-class writing exercises and presentations provide guidance and practice in effective communication of a valuation analysis. Specific assignments include writing a thesis statement, summarizing data, creating effective tables, writing a conclusion, communicating highest and best use, communicating an analysis, writing a letter of transmittal, and writing a reconciliation and opinion of value. During this four-day course, participants will use data provided in case studies as the basis for writing assignments that will help them recognize and produce effective reports. A two-hour multiple-choice examination that focuses on components of good writing concludes the course.

Note. If you are on an MAI designation path, you will need to take Reporting Writing & Valuation Analysis.