What is an MAI Appraiser?

An MAI appraisal is a real estate appraisal conducted by a professional who has earned the MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute. An MAI Designated appraiser has completed advanced coursework, passed rigorous examinations, and met specific experience requirements in commercial property valuation. According to the Appraisal Institute there are 8,364 MAI appraisers out of 93,665 total active licensed appraisers.


The MAI designation is held by appraisers who are experienced in valuing commercial, industrial, residential, and other income-producing properties. The MAI membership designation is earned by professionals who provide a range of services on all types of real property related to providing opinions of value, evaluations, review, consulting and advice on investment decisions, among other things. Property types may include commercial, retail, industrial, hotels, office, agricultural, residential, special purpose and vacant land. They may also appraise residential properties in certain situations. 

MAI designation is for a certified appraiser and member of the Appraisal Institute who has met strict testing, standards and experience requirements. Minimum requirements include:

  1. Be a Certified General Real Property Appraiser (state certified)
  2. Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher
  3. Complete Standards course (i.e. USPAP, IVS) and AI Business Practices and Ethics
  4. Pass all Appraisal Institute required exams including a comprehensive examination
      a. Advanced Income Capitalization
      b. Advanced Market Analysis and Highest & Best Use
      c. Advanced Concepts & Case Studies
      d. Quantitative Analysis
  5. Pass the General Comprehensive Exam
  6. Complete 4,500 hours of specialized work
  7. Complete a demonstration appraisal report

MAI Designated Members agree to adhere to the Appraisal Institute’s Code of Professional Ethics and Standards of Professional Practice, underscoring a commitment to sound and ethical professional practice. The completion of continuing education requirements assures that MAI Designated Members remain informed on trends and changes pertaining to real property valuation, enabling them to provide valuations that reflect the latest in professional practice. The MAI designation has long been recognized by courts of law, government agencies, financial institutions and investors as a sign of excellence in the field of real estate valuation and analysis. Because of their extensive training and experience, MAI appraisers are often considered more credible in legal and financial circles, making their appraisals particularly valuable in situations like litigation, estate planning, or financing.

National Appraisal Partners, LLP supports the Appraisal Institute and their work to promote values and standards in the industry. Our firm leaders have served as officers in local chapters. Tom Stark, MAI has served on the national board of directors for the Appraisal Institute.

Our Team at Work For You

Our most valuable asset is our team of dedicated professionals. During the course of each project, they work closely with our clients and their representatives to accomplish the stated goals of the valuation in a timely manner. Regardless of your transaction or scenario, we have the people, skills, resources and geographic reach to help you achieve your real estate business objectives.

Leadership

National Appraisal Partners was founded in 2002 by Thomas A. Stark, MAI and Bryan S. Miller, MAI, CCIM. We offer appraisal services with offices in Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, Waco, San Antonio, and in Madison Wisconsin. Our experienced and credentialed professionals provide independent valuation and consultation services in a timely manner.

Bryan S. Miller, MAI, CCIM

Mr. Miller has been actively engaged in the real estate industry since 1987. He has been active in the valuation of commercial real estate since 1995. He focuses primarily on commercial real estate valuation and consulting projects. Read More

Thomas A. Stark, MAI

Mr. Stark began his career in real estate in 1988. He has worked closely with financial institutions, accounting firms, attorneys, corporations, developers, government entities, private investors and REITs. Read More

Nathan D. Riley, MAI

Nathan Riley is a Senior Manager at National Appraisal Partners, LLP, specializing in commercial real estate valuation and consulting. He brings over 20 years of industry experience, having worked with esteemed organizations like Arthur Andersen and Cushman & Wakefield Valuation and Advisory.

Ali M. Moses, MAI

Ali Moses is a Senior Manager at National Appraisal Partners, LLP, specializing in commercial real estate valuation and consulting. She brings over 9 years of industry experience. 

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