An estate appraiser judges the value of estate property that will be sold via an estate sale or auction, distributed to a deceased party's beneficiaries, or split in a divorce. The main requirement you'll usually have to meet to become an estate appraiser is gaining related training, which you can obtain through a program that offers an appraisal certificate. Such programs provide instruction in the review and evaluation of estate property and end with a certificate that could help you land a job or start your own business. You may also need a high school diploma or an equivalent credential to gain admission to a certificate program and land a job, but some employers and schools may not require it. Additionally, you will usually need good communication, analytical, computer, and multitasking skills to prepare for this career.
When you want to become an estate appraiser, your first step will likely be earning a high school diploma or an equivalency certificate. While this may not be required for every job or certificate program, having a diploma could translate into more job opportunities for you and more programs that are willing to accept you. Additionally, a high school diploma may prove beneficial if you will have to take another job to gain experience. For example, if you want to work in a business office or with an art gallery prior to applying for an appraiser job, a diploma might be required.
You also will usually need some training to become an estate appraiser. To prepare for this job, you can enroll in a training program that grants a certificate in this field. Such a program will usually teach you how to estimate the value of such items as artwork and antique furnishings. This often involves performing research to learn about the property's history, as its history, including how old it is, can play a critical role in valuation. This type of program might also provide instruction aimed at building your knowledge of business practices, marketing, and the legalities that surround the sale of property from an estate.
A number of skills may help you when you want to become an estate appraiser. For example, you will usually need good communication and research skills as well as the ability to evaluate property objectively. Computer skills are usually required for this job, both for conducting research and for creating reports. Additionally, business and marketing skills are often important for this job.
