Despite significant advances in appraisal technology, the industry has been slow to adapt, held back partly by an aging workforce and continued use of outdated systems. As a result, the field is shrinking. So what will it take to revive the appraisal industry and modernize real estate valuation?
A Stubborn Industry at a Crossroads
For many appraisers, clipboards, tape measures, and graph paper are still normal tools for a day’s work. Our founder recalls those days: navigating with Hagstrom maps and dropping off film to develop before heading home to write reports by hand. But he also recognized early that the industry couldn’t stay there, and has since led TAG into a fully digital future.
Still, much of the industry remains resistant to the tools and systems that now define modern valuation. In a recent appraisal forum, most valuation professionals dismissed the idea of adopting new tech. Many echoed the same belief- the industry is fine the way it is- no need to modernize. But what does that say about the future of this profession?
Like anything, adapting with the times is woven into the fabric of evolution. Without it, credibility is lost, workflow becomes inefficient by today’s standards, and client expectations can be left unfulfilled. And with this thought, I ask, what happens when the next generation sees this industry as stuck in the past?
If your local grocery store refused to adopt self-checkout, would you still shop there, or look for one that values your time? That kind of convenience and adaptation isn’t optional anymore, and the same goes for appraisals.
The Role of Technology in Modern Appraising
Technology in appraising isn’t about replacing professionals; it’s about giving them better tools to do their jobs smarter and faster.
Laser measurers reduce human error, cloud-based CRMs help us manage client communications for dozens of orders a day, and digital sketch software saves us hours on each report.
Simply put, technology has the power to elevate the appraisal industry, not replace it. As Tony Pastilli, a modern appraiser spearheading AI adoption, writes: “Adopting mobile applications is no longer a luxury – it’s a strategic advantage. For appraisers looking to stay competitive, improve their workflow, and increase their income, the message is clear: put down the clipboard and pick up the tablet.”.
At TAG, we’ve adopted that mindset. Integrating modern technology allows us to maintain fast turn times, expand our coverage area, and deliver the seamless, modern experience our clients expect.
Rebuilding the Industry for the Future
If we don’t widely revitalize the appraisal industry and attract younger professionals, we risk watching it collapse under its own reluctance. According to Bisnow, the median age of appraisers is now 60. Over 80% are over the age of 50, and fewer than 16% have entered the field in the last decade
So what’s keeping younger professionals away from this career path?
- A complex licensing path
- An outdated industry image
- A reputation for resisting technology = a dealbreaker for millenials and Gen-Z
But here’s what’s often overlooked: appraising can be a flexible, meaningful, and financially solid career when modern tools and a forward-thinking culture support it.
As a millennial, I know the pressure to find a career that feels real, not another pyramid scheme or unstable hustle. Appraising can offer real stability, strong income potential, work-life balance- but only if young professionals know it exists. The challenge isn’t that this career doesn’t deliver; it’s that modern, forward-thinking appraisal firms are hard to find. And that’s exactly what needs to change.
TAG Perspective: Vocational program enrollment jumped 16% in 2022-2023, the highest since 2018 (WSJ via NASRCC). As more young people turn to trades over traditional college paths, appraising stands out as an opportune career option. The momentum is here; our industry just needs to meet it.
What Will It Take to Win the Next Generation?
So what will it actually take to win the next generation of working people? We need:
- Streamlined paths into the profession
- Flexible, tech-driven work environments
- Visibility through modern channels- from TikTok to podcasts and career fairs
Right now, a major hurdle is that appraiser trainees often can’t contribute meaningfully until fully licensed. It’s similar to a student teacher completing their practicum under a licensed educator during their final semester. The difference? Appraiser trainees are often out of school, and they need steady income right away. And since many appraisers operate solo, taking on a full-time trainee can be a financial stretch for everyone involved.
Some adoptable solutions include:
- Internships for class credit models
- Shared co-ops between appraisal firms could ease the burden on metors and give trainess broader, more balanced exposure
- Smarter, competency-based licensing programs
At TAG, we’re exploring ways to modernize and build the next generation of appraisers. Modernizing our tools is just step one. Modernizing our talent pipeline is what will sustain lasting change.
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