What is an appraiser's ethical responsibility?

An appraiser's ethical responsibility is fundamentally to provide an unbiased and accurate assessment of property value. This obligation is rooted in the principles of integrity, impartiality, and professionalism that govern the appraisal profession. Appraisers are expected to adhere to relevant regulations and standards, such as those set forth by the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

By focusing on an unbiased and accurate evaluation, appraisers ensure that their assessments serve the best interests of all stakeholders involved, including buyers, sellers, lenders, and the public. This impartiality is crucial because an appraiser must evaluate the property based on its characteristics, the surrounding market, and comparable sales without being influenced by external factors or personal interests.

Maximizing property value for the client could lead to unethical practices, as it might bias the appraisal. Following trends in property valuation or offering opinions based on personal experience may also detract from the objective analysis required for an accurate appraisal. Ultimately, the primary responsibility of an appraiser is to deliver a fair and correct valuation that can be relied upon by all parties involved in real estate transactions.