Call for 2027 Conference Session Proposals
In this issue:
- Call for Session Proposals now open for the 2027 Annual Conference in New Orleans
- 2027 national committee volunteer applications now open
Help Shape 2027's Key Conversations
What conversations should the appraisal profession be having next year? The Call for Session Proposals is now open for the 2027 Appraisal Institute Annual Conference, taking place April 26–28 in New Orleans. We're looking for sessions that challenge ideas, share practical solutions, and prepare appraisers for what's next, whether that's technical appraisal practice, business development, emerging trends, or a fresh perspective from outside the profession.
You don't have to be the speaker to submit an idea. If you know the right topic and the right person to present it, we'd love to have you send it our way.
Submit Your Proposal by September 12, 2026.
Tax Court Valuation Cases Put Highest and Best Use in the Spotlight
Recent Tax Court and appellate decisions involving conservation easement valuations point to increased judicial attention on highest and best use conclusions, especially when they depend on rezoning, mineral extraction, future market demand, or a hypothetical operating business. The zoning issue is not simply whether an application has been filed by the valuation date; the more important question is whether the evidence shows that a zoning change, permit, variance, or other approval was reasonably probable and reflected in market value. The cases do not appear to suggest that a different legal use must already be approved on the valuation date, but they do indicate that courts are looking for evidence that the use was reasonably probable, supported by market evidence, and reflected in a credible fee simple interest valuation of vacant land.
AI Blog
Client pressure, changing assignment conditions, and competency questions rarely arrive labeled as ethics issues. They show up as everyday business decisions when time is short and professional judgment matters most.
A new AI blog explores how Business Practices and Ethics helps appraisers prepare for those moments by connecting professional obligations with practical decisions around scope, client communication, competency, and independence. The course is required for Appraisal Institute members in an active continuing education cycle.
The next national synchronous session is August 28, with additional offerings October 16 and December 11. Read the blog and find a session that fits your CE timeline.
Sign up for Our Next Free Webinar
Federal Appraisal Update: What’s New at FHA and VA
August 20, 2026, 11 AM CT
Stay current on the latest developments affecting FHA and VA appraisal assignments. This webinar will examine changes to minimum property requirements, recent appraisal policy updates, and efforts to align federal requirements with the recent executive order and newly enacted legislation. Presenters will explain what is changing, what appraisers should expect, and how these developments may support clearer requirements, more consistent practices, and improved access to mortgage credit.
Panelists:
Brian Barnes, Deputy Director, Home Valuation Policy Division,
Federal Housing Administration
James Heaslet, Chief Appraiser, Loan Guaranty Service,
U.S. Veteran’s Administration
AI Submits Comments on AQB’s Proposed Qualification Criteria Revisions
The Appraisal Institute has submitted comments on the Appraiser Qualifications Board’s Second Exposure Draft of proposed revisions to the Real Property Appraiser Qualification Criteria. AI suggested that the Demonstration Appraisal Pathway be limited to adjacent real estate professions where someone has previous exposure to real estate markets and analytics. It also recommended rigorous appraisal-specific education in statistics, data analytics, critical thinking, report writing, market analysis, and real estate economics if existing college requirements are eliminated.
The Institute also supports removing procedural barriers, including minimum experience periods and expiration dates for examination scores and Trainee qualifying education. Its comments call for nationally consistent standards across Practicum, PAREA, and other experiential pathways; expanded market-data analytics instruction; and the integration of fair housing, impartiality, and objective valuation principles throughout qualifying education. The Institute also said developing a Certified General PAREA program may prove to be more difficult than creating a residential PAREA program because of the different property types and complexity of commercial assignments.
Your Community
Are You Ready to Make an AI Impact? The Call for 2027 Volunteers is Now Open!
The Appraisal Institute is now accepting submissions for 2027 national committee appointments. Whether you're a longtime volunteer, seeking reappointment, or looking to get involved for the first time, now is your opportunity to help shape the future of the Appraisal Institute.
To be considered for a 2027 national committee appointment, you must complete the Leadership Resource Registry (LRR) by September 16, 2026. If your current committee term ends on December 31, 2026, you must also complete the LRR to be considered for reappointment.
Here's how to get started:
- Complete the LRR. Select the volunteer leadership opportunities that interest you.
- Tell us about you. Use the "Additional Information" section to highlight your skills, experience, and interests.
- Update your AI member profile. Make sure your contact information and member profile are current.
Want to serve closer to home?
Explore volunteer leadership opportunities with your local AI chapter by contacting your chapter directly.
As the Appraisal Institute continues to evaluate its governance structure, some volunteer opportunities may evolve. Members are encouraged to complete the LRR based on their interests, and any changes will be communicated as the appointment process moves forward.
Wisconsin Chapter Webinar: Lead with Confidence and Elevate Your Voice
Thursday, August 27, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
The Wisconsin Chapter invites you to join an inspiring panel discussion designed to help Appraisal Institute members strengthen their leadership presence and communication skills.
As the appraisal profession continues to evolve, success depends on more than technical expertise. It requires the ability to confidently communicate your conclusions, build credibility, influence stakeholders, and lead with impact. Hear from respected industry leaders as they share practical insights, personal experiences, and strategies you can apply throughout your career.
Featured Panelists:
- Akia Smith, MAI
- Kelli Mayhew, MAI, SRA
- Meghan Czechowski, MAI
- Sharon Harbin, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS
This webinar is open to all AI members. Please help us spread the word by sharing this opportunity with your chapter members, especially those interested in developing their leadership and communication skills. Thank you to the Women’s Initiative Committee (WIN) for helping create this opportunity for learning and connection.
Mark Your Calendar for the Virtual 2026 Annual Meeting of Appraisal Institute Membership
The Annual Meeting of the Appraisal Institute membership will take place virtually on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. CT. The meeting will run until all business is concluded. Members will hear updates on the state of affairs of the Appraisal Institute and have an opportunity to stay informed about key organizational priorities and activities. Information on how to join the meeting will be forthcoming. The meeting will be conducted in conjunction with the third regular Board Meeting Recap and Q&A.