We're excited to announce the 2026 Networking & Career Development Series on July 22 at Chicago Dogs - Rosemont. This complimentary event is tailored for entry-level appraisers, ADI participants, and scholarship recipients. Attendees will gain insights into resources from the Appraisal Institute, understand the Appraiser Diversity Initiative, and discover scholarship opportunities. Plus, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere to foster meaningful connections. Don't miss out!
The Chicago Chapter is proud to assist those interested in becoming appraisers and CCAI members in furthering their education. The Chicago Chapter has four different scholarships that offer assistance to our members. Along with those scholarships, we have an entry-level scholarship for those who are interested in becoming an appraiser.
The Conditions of the Chicago Real Estate Market 2026 seminar is an essential opportunity for appraisers looking to enhance their expertise. This 7-hour deep dive will cover crucial updates on the current real estate market and economy, providing insights that are vital for career advancement in an ever-evolving landscape. Stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions that will benefit your practice. Join us to expand your knowledge and network with industry professionals.
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Search the Appraisal Institute's comprehensive appraiser database that lists professionals from all over the world. It has become an indespensible resource to those seeking valuation services, as well as a source of business for appraisers themselves.
This Directory lists real estate appraisers who are Designated Members, Candidates for Designation, or Practicing Affiliates of the Appraisal Institute.
Designated members who hold the MAI, SRPA, SRA, AI-GRS and AI-RRS designations have met rigorous requirements relating to education, experience and demonstration of knowledge, understanding and ability.
"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute offers the best real estate appraisal education in the industry. The Chapter offers many gatherings, ranging from meetings, seminars, classes and social events which allowed me to meet and mingle with like minded professionals and expand my network"
-David Binz, SRA
"Being a designated member has opened many doors. I get inquiries from all around the country looking for work from MAI's. I have also made many friends and have enjoyed the classes and seminars. I think anyone involved in the real estate industry would benefit working with AI. The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute is a comfortable facility with a friendly and knowledgeable staff."
-Bruce Darata, MAI
"CCAI has a proud history as being "the" innovative leader and influence in the Appraisal Institute. An aspiring appraiser cannot find a better environment or mentor network that encourage success. It offers outstanding opportunities in appraisal education and leadership. Many members have developed national fame for their specialties, published books and journal articles, seminars, and contributions to the profession. CCAI is truly a treasure. Nearing the end of my career, I personally realize the importance of CCAI in where I've been, what I've done, what I've learned."
-Richard C. Sorenson, MAI
"Whether just starting your career or already established, membership in The Appraisal Institute provides a wide variety of quality education options, consistently high ethical standards, and a variety opportunities to network with other appraisers, and related real estate and financial market participants."
-Karen T. Emerle, SRA
"Benefits of membership include up-to-date continuing education, opportunities to serve the appraisal professionals in the industry in various capacities, social interaction and access to a vast network of appraisal professionals. An MAI since 1984, and a member of the Chicago Chapter since1981, I strongly believe the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute could be an advantageous association for anybody who desires to be in the appraisal industry."
-Michael A. Wolin, MAI SRA
"The Appraisal Institute is the premier professional organization in the appraisal industry and the MAI designation is the most prestigious in the industry and widely recognized world-wide. The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute is an important appraisal industry organization that advocates for its members through educational services, legislative activities and social activities."
-John C. Satter, MAI
"Being a member of the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute has provided me with many wonderful networking opportunities with other appraisers from all over the country. Classes are offered at convenient locations both downtown and in the suburbs. The Chicago Chapter has provided me with an outstanding education through their vast offerings of qualifying education on my path to designation as well as continued education course offerings to help maintain my state licenses. I have made many great friends and colleagues at the Chicago Chapter, and am honored to be a part of this professional organization."
-Alexandra M. Meade, MAI, AI-GRS
"I joined the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute because of the excellent educational resources afforded members and the ability to speak with seasoned veterans of the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute. It is truly difficult to find fellow appraisers that truly understand the business and have such a depth of insightful knowledge. The Chicago Chapter is the proverbial North Star of chapters, in my opinion, as the depth of appraisal knowledge in the Chicago chapter runs from rural to urban properties and from nationwide to worldwide properties. Every commercial and residential appraiser would benefit from joining the Chicago Chapter just to be well informed and to have the ability to call a knowledgeable fellow appraiser for those complex assignments or insight into running a fee shop."
-Mark T. Gasick, SRA, AI-RRS
"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute has been a great source of education to advance my career in the real estate appraisal industry. It also offers many opportunities for networking with my peers, as well as serving the organization."
-Cameron Rex, MAI
"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute has established itself as one of the leading providers of appraiser education and training in the country, and actually the world. With the expansion and establishment of the four different designations, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, and AI-RRS, education and training is more important than ever in the advancements of our careers as appraisers. Become a member of the Chicago Chapter and give some of your time and energy to make it great. It really is going to give back to you as much as you give to the organization and more. Whether it be sponsorships, or donations of time, it will make a difference in your life and career as an appraiser."
-Mark S. Whitsitt, SRA
"Prior to joining the Chicago Chapter, the leadership was very helpful to me, when I approached them with questions. So, I joined the chapter. Since joining, leadership opportunities have been made available to me that were not available at other chapters. I have also participated as a member. The members have been very supportive of me and helpful in my journey. I have enjoyed my time with the chapter members and hope to continue to do so."
-L. Stacy Letton, MAI, SRA
"As the owner of a small appraisal firm, I often struggle to find new opportunities to meet leaders and experienced appraisers in our industry. Becoming a member of the appraisal institute and getting involved in the chapter, has given me access to a vast network of these professionals, and has been the single greatest decision I have made as a leader, appraiser and a business owner."
-Sam Louise, Standard Valuation Services
"The Chicago chapter of the appraisal institute is a wonderful resource for continuing education and appraisal networking. I look forward to the annual conditions of the market seminar every year."
-Susan Z. Ulman, MAI
"Joining the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute was a defining moment in my career and over time has converted my business into a professional firm. The appraisal industry is changing and building strong relationships with other professionals is essential to staying ahead. Nowhere else can you find better real estate valuation experts."
-Kenneth J. Mrozek, Jr., MAI, SRA
"The Chicago Chapter’s website is my go-to resource in finding appraisers for my firm. In addition to being able to post available positions, I also can take a look at appraisers who are seeking work. This is a great resource available to Appraisal Institute members and affiliates."
-Kent D. Steele, MAI
"Becoming a member of the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute provided me an opportunity to network, as well as, employment opportunities. The majority of my employment opportunities were due to membership and access to the CCAI website. The benefits are surmountable when it comes to membership discounts on courses, educational offerings, employment postings, scholarship opportunities, etc. The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute is a professional powerhouse for real estate appraisers and other professional organizations of real estate services."
-Barbara Neal
"I have found the instructors at the Chicago Chapter and the fellow members are extremely willing to help others in this profession to succeed. Their help extends beyond the classroom into ones daily business practice. The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute has provided me with the tools to help me be better prepared for the challenges facing our profession. CCAI has been and continues to be made up of people who recognize a need and are willing to work to fill that need to improve the organization or a fellow member, often at great sacrifice to their own to their own needs."
-John G McMahon, SRA, AI-RRS
"The local chapter has the most comprehensive and frequent CE and QE offerings available to appraisers. The Staff at CCAI always WOW's the membership in customer service."
-Keith Wolf, SRA, AI-RRS
"The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute provides one of the largest networks of appraisers in the US. To be a part of the Chicago Chapter has not only benefitted person growth but professional growth as well. I believe any company would benefit with working with the CCAI. With an extensive membership and networking opportunities there is no limit to the cross impacts between business. The CCAI values its members and looks out for their best interests. To be as successful as it has been year over year is a testament to the strength its community."
-Kenneth Konrath, MAI
"I feel honored to be affiliated with what I considered to be some of the best appraisers in the country. The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute keeps me up to date with issues and I stay informed of the changes in the profession, some I even had to privilege of participating in their development. The Chicago Chapter gave me a good foundation for my career and has sustained me as I near retirement. But, one of the most important benefits are the relationships I developed with other members of the Chapter that have created lasting friendships."
-Sharon Bagby, SRA
"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute provides high quality professional education, industry support, interesting social events and chances to become involved and meet with other appraisers. If you are looking to expand your appraisal knowledge and network with other appraisers, the chapter is by far the best option."
-Keith Solomon, MAI
These scholarships are funded by the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute. To learn more about the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute’s Scholarships visit this site. To make a donation or if you have any questions please contact Sarah Walsh at sarah@ccai.org.
These scholarships are funded by the Appraisal Institute Education Trust (AIET). To learn more about the AIET, visit the Appraisal Institute Education Trust. Or visit the Charitable Entities section to make a donation. Please email educationtrust@appraisalinstitute.org if you have any questions.

Barbara T. Baffoe, MAI
Michael Ebsen, MAI
Phillip D. Forbes, MAI
Nicholas J. Hilla, MAI
Richard J. Kopacz, MAI


Andrew G. Hartigan, MAI, AI-GRS

Manage commercial real estate appraisal process for assigned market area(s). Engage appropriate appraisers and appraisals for complex commercial real estate property types and transactions. Review appraisal reports for compliance with bank policy and procedures, USPAP, and federal and state regulations. In a timely and professional manner, resolve deficiencies with appraisal reports. When requested, assist Regional Manager and or Chief Appraiser with national portfolios, warehouse lines, staff training and special valuation issues or projects. Manage and prioritize pending and active appraisal reviews to meet lending deadlines. Manage external vendor panel for assigned region. Consult and advise bank staff regarding real estate appraisal policy and procedures and state and federal appraisal regulations. Maintain review productivity and quality control measurements in-line with department benchmarks https://careers.usbank.com/global/en/job/UBNAGLOBAL20260007233EXTERNALENGLOBAL/Senior-Commercial-Real-Estate-Review-Appraiser
Pahroo Appraisal and Consultancy, LLC is a US-based appraisal firm delivering credible, USPAP-compliant valuations across residential markets nationwide. We work with lenders, AMCs, investors, and private clients. We are looking for an experienced, Illinois-licenced appraiser in the Chicago area to take on a high-volume independent contractor engagement — owning assignments from receipt through delivery. The Engagement This is a full-time independent contractor role. You will manage the complete appraisal assignment lifecycle end-to-end: • Receive assignment order and review scope • Contact the point of contact (POC) directly to schedule the site appointment • Conduct the site inspection, collecting property data using an iPad tablet in the field • Upload site data and photos to the cloud upon completion of the inspection • Research comparable sales and complete the appraisal report • Submit report for internal review • Receive and address review comments • Post revised report for final delivery You are the appraiser of record on each assignment. This is not a desk-only or hybrid-support role. You own it start to finish. Territory Chicago metro area and surrounding counties. You must be based in the Chicago area and hold a valid driving licence with a reliable vehicle available for regular field inspections. What We Are Looking For Required: • Active Illinois Certified Residential Appraiser licence (Certified General also welcome) • Minimum 5 years of residential appraisal experience with a solid track record in the Chicago metro market • Demonstrated knowledge of Chicago neighbourhood dynamics — ward-level variation, condo density, two-flat and greystone valuation, suburban county differences • Full command of USPAP and current GSE guideline requirements (Fannie Mae SEL, Freddie Mac, FHA/VA) • Proficiency with appraisal software — TOTAL by a la mode, ClickFORMS, or equivalent • Comfortable conducting field inspections and data collection using a tablet device • Valid US driving licence and reliable vehicle • Bachelor’s degree or higher Strongly preferred: • Experience with desktop and hybrid appraisal assignments under GSE modernisation frameworks • Familiarity with the UAD Redesign and the updated Uniform Residential Appraisal Report (URAR) rollout • Experience working within AMC platforms and their submission and revision portals • Comfort working alongside AI-assisted tools, AVMs, or automated review flags as part of a broader QC workflow Compensation This engagement operates on a competitive fee split arrangement. Compensation is dependent on experience and will be discussed during the interview process. This is a high-volume engagement — earnings reflect output. What to Expect You will have consistent order volume, a clear review process, and direct communication with our team. You will not be chasing work or managing client relationships from scratch. What we expect in return is turnaround discipline, defensible report quality, and professionalism in the field. If you are already operating at this level and want a reliable, long-term engagement, this is a good fit. How to Apply Click the following link to apply on our job portal: https://app.ducknowl.com/Pahroo/preview-job?jid=QAkG6067ZDYTujiqOX9ui5m5Mt9KpyDQukx6I%2FHugWcPUXy1
Volume down? Realpro Appraisals, Inc. is seeking a motivated Licensed or Certified Residential Appraiser (Certified strongly preferred) to join our established team in Elgin, IL. We're open to training exceptional trainee candidates as well. Start with overflow assignments in Cook, Lake, and Will Counties, with the opportunity to earn a greater share of steady volume as trust and performance are demonstrated. Contact: David W Binz, SRA davidbinz@realproappraisal.com 630-742-2359
David Binz
davidbinz@realproappraisal.com
Apply your expertise in multifamily and mixed-use commercial real estate valuation as a Senior Real Estate Appraiser at JPMorgan Chase. Bring your Expertise to JPMorgan Chase. As part of Risk Management and Compliance, you are at the center of keeping JPMorgan Chase strong and resilient. You help the firm grow its business in a responsible way by anticipating new and emerging risks, and using your expert judgement to solve real-world challenges that impact our company, customers and communities. Our culture in Risk Management and Compliance is all about thinking outside the box, challenging the status quo and striving to be best-in-class. --- Job Summary As a Senior Real Estate Appraiser in the Valuation Services Group, you will leverage your expertise to deliver high-quality appraisals for multifamily and mixed-use commercial properties. You will collaborate with a dedicated team, receive comprehensive support, and gain hands-on experience that prepares you for future opportunities within our firm. Together, we ensure our appraisal reports meet rigorous quality standards and drive excellence in real estate valuation. --- Job Responsibilities · Appraise 5+ unit multifamily residential, mixed-use, and commercial properties to estimate market value for financial related transactions in accordance with internal policies/procedures, industry standards and regulatory requirements (USPAP & FIRREA) · Interview Real Estate market participants for rent and sales surveys, and analyze subject properties · Manage time effectively to meet service level deadlines · Understand building construction types, flood/environmental hazards, earthquake and zoning conditions (as pertinent) · Perform administrative tasks that support the commercial real estate appraisal process · Make risk-based decisions and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure appraisal reports are complete, accurate, credible, and reasonable based on sound real estate methodology · Apply sound real estate appraisal methodology to all assignments --- Required Qualifications, Capabilities, and Skills · Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college · State Certified General Appraiser License · At least 3 years of experience appraising multifamily residential, mixed-use, or commercial properties · Strong analytical, business writing, and oral communication skills · Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving abilities · Computer/technology knowledge as well as a proficiency in MS Word, Excel and Outlook (Microsoft Office Suite) · In-depth knowledge of local real estate market trends and neighborhoods · Commitment to ongoing development of market knowledge and awareness of national real estate trends --- Preferred Qualifications, Capabilities, and Skills · Experience with Discounted Cash Flow programs and methodologies · Background in appraising properties for financial institutions · Designation qualifications is a plus If interested, please contact Thomas Hennessy at JPMorgan Chase (thomas.j.hennessy@chase.com).
Thomas Hennessy
thomas.j.hennessy@chase.com
Because of an increasing workload, Sterling Valuation is looking to hire a Certified General appraiser. Our primary market is the Chicago area, although we also have performed appraisals in Indiana. The qualified candidate would have a strong work ethic, proficient at Word and Excel, and be able to work with deadlines. This is a salaried position commensurate with experience, benefits include expense reimbursement for appraisal classes, health insurance, year-end bonus and 401K. Work from home is possible as well. If interested, please contact Sterlingchicago190@gmail.com.
I am a national commercial appraiser with 3 state licenses: Illinois, Indiana, and South Carolina. I am looking for commercial work nationally or locally in Illinois and Indiana. I have 20 years of experience and have only comprehensive exam to complete the MAI. I have a Master's Degree in Computer Science and am also a professional coder. If interested send an email to me at cdbald@blueedgeappraisals.com or call 630-205-9400
Chris Baldwin
cdbald@blueedgeappraisals.com
Appraisal Review & Valuation Risk Consulting Services Experienced appraisal review professional with over 20 years of review experience, specializing in evaluating commercial and residential real estate appraisals for valuation credibility, regulatory compliance, and risk management for financial institutions. My background includes extensive work reviewing appraisal reports to ensure alignment with USPAP, FIRREA, and internal bank policies, while maintaining strict independence and professional standards. Services include independent commercial and residential appraisal reviews, regulatory compliance review (USPAP, FIRREA, banking guidance), valuation credibility and risk assessment, collateral and market analysis, review of income, DCF, sales comparison, and cost approaches, and appraisal policy and procedure development. I currently hold an Associate Real Estate Trainee Appraiser License and have completed 300 hours of qualifying education toward the Certified General license, along with 4,500 hours of review experience toward the AI-GRS designation. At this stage in my career, I am pursuing two opportunities: 1. Independent Appraisal Review Services I am available to provide independent appraisal review services for appraisal firms, lenders, or other organizations needing experienced review support. 2. Supervising Appraiser / Trainee Opportunity I am actively seeking a supervising appraiser who may be willing to take me on as a trainee so I can continue progressing toward my Certified General license while gaining field appraisal experience. Ideally, I would welcome the opportunity to both provide review services and work under a supervising appraiser, but I am also happy to provide review services independently for those who simply need experienced appraisal review support. If you or someone in your network may be interested in either opportunity, I would welcome the chance to connect.
Michelle Foster
stubs2@hotmail.com
I am a candidate for PAREA, where I hope to obtain my Certified Residential Appraiser credential and am seeking a long‑term opportunity with a commercial valuation firm in the Chicago area. My goal is to grow into a Certified General appraiser while contributing meaningful analytical support from day one. I bring a strong background in analytics, risk modeling, and structured communication from prior roles in advanced analytics and actuarial work. I am comfortable with financial modeling, market research, data analysis, and writing clear, well‑supported valuation narratives. I have also shadowed Certified General appraisers to gain practical inspection and workflow exposure. I am looking for a firm where I can begin as an Appraisal Analyst / Research Analyst, supporting senior appraisers with: - Market research and data verification - Rent and sales comp analysis - Income and cost modeling - Drafting report sections and narratives - Property inspections (as appropriate) I am committed to the Certified General path and am seeking a team where I can contribute long‑term, grow professionally, and add value to complex commercial assignments. If your firm is looking for an analytical, reliable, and growth‑oriented addition to your team, I would welcome the opportunity to connect. Contact: Corey President Chicago, IL cp1182@yahoo.com
Corey President
cp1182@yahoo.com
Commercial real estate appraiser (trainee) currently with a Florida county property appraiser’s office, with prior fee-appraisal experience supporting commercial valuation assignments. Primary exposure includes office, retail, restaurant/QSR, and bank branch properties, with hands-on experience in income and cost approaches, data analysis, and defensible valuation support. Additional experience includes supporting select industrial and special-use assignments, with a developing interest in aviation-related assets (including FBOs). Actively relocating to Chicago and seeking a trainee or junior appraiser role with a commercial appraisal firm. Licensure is in progress, with flexibility on start timing and supervision structure. Open to informational conversations or opportunities with firms seeking a motivated, analytically driven appraiser committed to long-term professional growth.
Edward Murtha
edmurtha@gmail.com