On May 31, 2017, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed an administrative complaint against the Louisiana Real Estate Appraisers Board (LREAB). The FTC alleges that the LREAB is “unreasonably restraining price competition for appraisal services in Louisiana, contrary to federal antitrust law.” In a press release issued by the FTC, they state: “According to the FTC’s complaint, the 2010 Wall …

This year Valuation Expo is unveiling our new annual appraiser award. Members of the Collateral Risk Network were asked to submit their nominations for the appraiser who exemplifies professionalism, influence, character/reputation, and achievement within the industry. The winner of this award will receive a free round trip flight to Las Vegas, two-night stay at the host hotel, and free entrance …

It is considered the official start of summer but to others it means so much more. Memorial Day is a very important holiday established to give us a time to honor and remember the men and women who have served in the armed forces of the United States of America. We would like to send our condolences to all the …

Last month, the Appraisal Buzz Newsletter conducted a short survey to its readers regarding Appraiser Independence Requirements (AIR). AIR was developed by Fannie Mae, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Freddie Mac, and key industry participants to replace the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC). The purpose was to continue to provide important protections for mortgage investors, home buyers, and the …

The American Society of Appraisers (ASA), and the National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers (NAIFA), have announced that they will move forward with a Memorandum of Understanding leading to a merger. The merger will create one of the largest networks of U.S. professional real estate appraisers. The Buzz staff reached out to Jim Hirt, Chief Executive Officer of ASA, to …

Finding the right Appraisal Management Company (AMC) to work with can be a daunting task. Allterra Group, publisher of the Appraisal Buzz, has recently released their new 2017 AMC Directory. Before you begin working with a new AMC, be sure to ask some important questions such as how long they have been in business, and find out more about their …

Long-serving government leader brings expertise in housing policy, housing finance reform, and financial regulation at critical time in Washington WASHINGTON, D.C., April 11, 2017 – The Financial Services Roundtable (FSR) today announced former Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Acting Director Ed DeMarco will join FSR’s Housing Policy Council (HPC) as President effective June 1, 2017. “FSR is proud to welcome Ed …

Being a foster kid himself, Rob Scheer knows what it is like to carry around his belongings in a garbage bag. Rob began a life in foster care at the age of 10. By the age of 17 he had no place to live and was either staying with friends or sleeping in public restrooms. Rob finished high school, and …