Appraiser Apprentice

Job Description

Under close supervision, performs appraisal assistance and support functions for the Assessor's office; assists in conducting appraisals, on-site inspections, data entry of appraisal information into property records, title research, and processes notifications to property owners; assists taxpayers or refers them to other appraisal staff; performs other related appraisal duties; and other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities:

• Under supervision, utilizes effective appraisal methods and analytical practices; assists in determining values; makes on-site inspections of new construction and existing property to assist in the appraisal and classification of property for ad valorem tax purposes; assists with other projects as assigned/directed.

• Assists appraisers in updating and maintaining files of property record cards, deeds, and other related appraisal correspondence; works closely with staff in mapping to obtain legal descriptions, acreage, maps, and ownership information; takes photos of structures to ascertain property changes; contacts representatives of state, county and federal government, private concerns, Realtors, property owners and others as needed to secure information in the appraisal of real property; works with appraisers on sale values on transactions by contacting title companies to ensure the proper sale price is reflected; notifies authorized representative's office when their documents have incorrect legal descriptions; assists in the appraisal of personal property and manufactured mobile homes.

• Measures and draws basic property improvements dimensions, collects descriptive and analytical information with respect to area of responsibility.

• Looks up building permits for properties throughout the county; enters permits utilizing the assigned information system; and works closely with the appraisal staff during the protest period to enter appropriate and accurate protest information into system.

• Enters data into computer appraisal database regarding changes in records such as property values. Enters permits & sales affidavits. Enters property model components. Sketches properties into system.

• Corresponds with general public concerning matters of values, deeds, title, probate, and other related issues/assessment questions; explains the different types of documents needed and required.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Real estate market and appraisal techniques, practices and procedures in valuation of real property.

• Reading and understanding various building plans and distinguishing between the quality of construction and materials.

• The local area including the Albuquerque Metro Area, Sandoval County, Rio Rancho, as well as submarkets that include retail, office, industrial, multi-family, livestock, agricultural, grazing, and vacant land.

• Basic arithmetic.

• Guidelines and statutes effecting property assessment including familiarity with Marshall and Swift Valuation Manual.

• Federal, state, and local laws applicable to area of assignment.

• Effective communication principles and practices including oral and written communication to include customer service and public relations.

• Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and statistical databases.

• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

• Principles of business letter writing.

• Gathering, interpreting, and utilizing data pertaining to population, employment, land use, zoning, and other economic information for appraisal purposes.

• Sketching improvements on property cards.

• Conducting basic research and preparing clear and concise reports.

• Meeting and dealing tactfully with the public.

• Working with equipment, tools, and materials required in area of assignment.

• Following written and verbal instructions and communicating effectively verbally and in writing including public relations.

• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public.

• Utilizing personal computer software programs and other relevant software affecting assigned work and in compiling and preparing routine spreadsheets.

• Preparing and maintaining files and records in both manual and computer-based systems.

• Interpreting policies and procedures sufficient to discuss and explain them.

Physical Functions:

• Approximately 50 percent of work is fieldwork; 50 percent of work is performed in a standard office environment.

• Will travel to various inspection sites and occasionally may be exposed to extreme weather and potential physical harm when assisting with on-site property inspections.

• Work may be performed in a Temporary Remote duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or logical assignment to the position.

• Must be 18 years or older and in possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License.

• High School diploma or GED required

• Six (6) months experience performing general office work, field support, surveying, or construction, preferably in real estate appraisal or related office/field setting.

• Must take and pass International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) course work which consists of four (4) classes, within one year of employment.

• Ability to understand and communicate in English/Spanish preferred.