Real Estate Appraisal Question

[craigster59]

I need to have some properties appraised and was wondering if anyone can fill me in on a few things. The appraiser that I'm using
was slow in responding due to moving his office. Now that we're in contact, he wants the appraisal fee upfront paid in full before he does any of the appraisals. Is this common practice or do they operate like contractors with partial payment upfront with balance due upon completion. Also, is there an association or governing body for appraisers in Calif. that I could contact? Thanks in advance.

[vash]

i have done it twice. both times i paid right after they guy finished.

start here?

http://www.orea.ca.gov/html/lic_appraisers.asp

[Steve Carlton]

It's typical. Just try and make sure he's a competent appraiser.

[tabs]

U pay the guy up front and all CA Appraisers are licensed by the state or are working for licensed appraisers. The Licensed appraiser is the one who signs the work.

[RANDY P]

Typical, or just give him a check upon completion.

frankly, if there are insistent on COD before the appraisal is done and I've never dealt with 'em before, watch out. If you feel funny about it, find a different appraiser.

I've had my office hit with a phony appraiser collecting checks and vanishing..

rjp