Frequently Asked Questions
We continuously update this page as we see which questions are asked most often. If you don’t see your questions answered on this page, and after researching our website, please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become an appraiser and start taking courses?
By becoming a member of CNAREA. Please see our How to Become A Real Estate Appraiser section.
Can I work while I take courses?
Yes! As long as you successfully complete CNA100 USPAP, and have a supervisor to sign off your reports, you will be eligible to obtain insurance and start working.
Can my experience in the real estate industry reduce the amount of courses I need to take when obtaining the DAR designation?
The short answer is, no. You may be able to receive credit for some of our elective courses, but you will be required to complete the rest of our courses and fulfill the 2 year requirement alongside a Supervisor before you can write your DAR exam.
How long does is take to become a Designated Appraiser?
It varies per member but generally takes between 2 – 4 years. You will start as Candidate Member, who must complete all of the education requirements and have 2 years of full-time work as a candidate appraiser, before you are able to write the final exam.
Who can be my Supervisor? How do I find one?
A Supervisor has the Certified Appraisal Reviewer designation, which means among other things, they are permitted to take on up to four (4) candidates at any one time. Your Supervisor must be a member of CNAREA.
The best way to find a supervisor is to use our Search Tool: Find an Appraiser, or our Job Board. Search the areas you wish to work in, contact the members with the Reviewer designation, and find out if they are looking for candidates.
Will CNAREA help me find a supervisor?
No, CNAREA does get involved in the business operations of our members and as such will not get involved in the hiring of new candidates.
You are responsible for researching and contacting the members, who hold the Certified Reviewer designation, to inquire about being their Candidate. For your convenience, please use our Search Tool to search members in and around your area. A supervisor must be a member of CNAREA and hold the Certified Appraisal Reviewer Designation.
We do advise that all prospective candidates check the Job Board on a regular basis.
What supporting documentation do I need to submit along with the membership application?
A prospective member must submit the following, or their application will not be considered for review:
- A Criminal Background Check (within 90 days of application)
- Confirmation that he or she has successfully completed, at minimum, High School or equivalent
- Work history, which usually is in the form of a resume
If the applicant is wanting to receive credit for specific courses or programs they must provide a description of the course or program as well as confirmation of successful completion.
Does previous education from other institutions, associations, or related industries count for credit towards the CNAREA education program?
Only appraisal related courses will be considered for credit towards the mandatory or core courses in the CNAREA education program.
With respect to appraisal courses from outside of CNAREA, please submit the course description and confirmation of the successful completion of the course in your membership application.
Other real estate related courses will be reviewed to determine if elective credits can be given.
How much does it cost to get my designation?
The approximate cost of the education program is approximately $6,000.00. This does not include membership fees and the cost of insurance.
Check out our Price Guideline.
Are courses offered online or in class?
All of our courses are now online.
I’m ready to write my DAR exam, now what?
See the DAR Exam Outline for more information.
As a candidate appraiser can I complete appraisal reports on my own?
Your Reviewer must sign your report when you are a Candidate member.
How do I become a Supervisor?
Be actively working with your DAR designation for at least 2 years and successfully complete the in class course: CNA310 Certified Appraisal Reviewer. You must take this course as a refresher every four years once you are a Reviewer.