I help clients with legal matters concerning appraisal and valuation services. My clients include valuation firms, appraisal management companies, and financial institutions.
Note: because I serve as a public member on the Montana Board of Real Estate Appraisers, I do not represent appraisers or appraisal management companies in connection with matters in Montana.
Service Agreements, Policies & Procedures
I’ve drafted and revised hundreds of service agreements and terms and conditions for valuation firms and AMCs. I also participated in the Appraisal Institute’s work group to update its sample agreements for appraisal services. I frequently assist AMCs in drafting policies and procedures to meet lender-client requirements.
Compliance Counseling and Training
I provide compliance advice, education and training with regard to state and federal laws, regulations and guidelines pertaining to real estate valuation, appraisal management and related mortgage services. I’m most frequently asked about issues relating to Fair Housing, Appraisal Bias, Dodd-Frank Act, Appraisal Independence and state appraisal management company laws.
Regulatory and Disciplinary Matters
I represent and assist appraisers, AMCs and other service providers in connection with regulatory and disciplinary matters. The most frequent proceedings I’m asked for assistance with involve HUD, the CFPB and state appraiser boards (other than Montana).
Legislative and Regulatory Monitoring
Many AMCs, national firms and other regulated businesses require monitoring of proposed and newly enacted legislation and regulation. I provide regular reporting on legislation and regulation regarding valuation services at the state and federal levels.