Online Courses in Real Estate Appraisal
The following overviews detail some commonly offered online real estate appraisal classes and courses.
- Principles of Real Estate Course: This online course introduces students to the real estate business. Students learn how economic influences affect property values, how the real estate market works, how to appraise properties and how to list and sell properties as well as other topics. This course, which may be self-paced or be on a set schedule, also covers the legal standards and professional ethics expected in the industry.
- Real Estate Law Course: Individuals in online real estate appraisal courses may want to consider studying real estate law. Students learn the common laws that apply to property classification, conveyance of property and zoning. The law of contracts is another important area of real estate that should be considered for those interested in this industry as a career.
- Real Estate Finance Course: This online course provides a review of the major financial categories surrounding the real estate industry (financial instruments, credit and funds, mortgages and government programs) that may impact the financing of properties, such as new homeowner tax credits. Students may explore the financing of the secondary mortgage markets, mortgage-related securities and capital market operations. Individuals, who want to work as real estate appraisers, may be greatly helped by knowing how the real estate economy works.
- Investing in Real Estate Course: Students in this online course learn the steps needed to purchase real property as an investment strategy. Case studies are used to create an investment plan that utilizes various residential and commercial properties. Students explore the various types of investment instruments and learn about the property tax implications of owning real estate.
- Commercial Real Estate Course: Online real estate appraisal students may also want to learn how to value commercial properties. This online course teaches them how to list a commercial property for sale and how to sell with confidence along with the various governmental regulations that must be considered. Students explore financing options available for commercial property, as well as how to value apartments, office buildings, shopping centers and industrial centers.
- Professional Standards in Real Estate Course: Students interested in a career in the real estate industry should consider an online course that teaches the importance of professionalism as a real estate practitioner. Individuals learn the etiquette between clients and agents, as well as the special differences that accompany foreign investors. This course teaches individuals the basic customs and traditions they will experience working in the real estate industry.
- Residential Real Estate Course: Students in this online appraisal course will learn how to value and list residential properties for sale. The course will also teach students about making sales on residential properties according to realtor laws and regulations in their state. Students will also learn how to compare valuations on residential properties, as well as estimate potential rental property values.
- Basic Appraisal Principles Course: This course gives students a foundation in the principles of appraisal, covering such topics as legal considerations related to appraisal, what influences real estate values, concepts and characteristics of real property, economic principles, real estate markets and analysis and ethical considerations in real estate. This is a 30-hour course which fulfills the Real Property Appraiser Qualification Criteria in California, qualifying students to work at the trainee up to the licensed appraiser level.
- Residential Appraiser Site Valuation and Cost Approach Course: This course covers appraisal valuation concepts and the cost approach to valuation in depth. Students are led step-by-step through the appraisal valuation process using the cost approach. Included are interviewing tips, interviewing methods, market extraction and using professional services as data sources. A course in basic appraisal principles and procedures is usually a prerequisite.
Program Information
Real estate appraisal may be covered in a single online course, or it may be part of a comprehensive program that leads to a degree in real estate business management or business administration. Individuals enrolled in an online real estate appraisal course learn how to value properties, estimate rebuilding costs and determine the income a property would generate if rented. This field of study prepares students for careers as real estate appraisers, real estate agents, property managers and property tax assessors.
Students interested in a career in real estate can find online courses at various colleges and universities. These courses prepare students for careers in a variety of real estate concentrations and include such areas as the basics of real estate, real estate law, investing in real estate, and real estate appraisal.
