How To Become a Certified Residential Appraiser in Florida

Your Complete Guide to Becoming a Florida Real Estate Appraiser

If you're looking for a career with strong income potential that doesn't require a college degree, becoming a real estate appraiser in Florida might be the perfect fit. With steady demand, a clear licensing path, and ample room to grow, appraisal offers a stable and rewarding future in real estate.

Do You Meet the Basic Requirements?

Before you can start training, make sure you meet Florida’s minimum requirements. To become a real estate appraiser in Florida, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Have a valid Social Security number

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent (like a GED)

That’s all you need to get started, no college degree required.

What Can You Expect to Earn?

Income varies based on experience, location, and specialization. According to Salary.com’s data for Florida, the average certified residential appraiser earns about $84,463 annually. Appraisers in the top 10% earn over $111,000 per year.

Your income will also depend on whether you work independently or for a firm, and whether you move into high-value or commercial markets.

Steps to Become a Florida Real Estate Appraiser

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) outlines a 3-step path to becoming a certified residential appraiser:

Step 1: Complete 100 Hours of Education

To start, you’ll need to complete 100 hours of approved pre-licensing courses through a DBPR-approved provider. These include:

• Basic Appraisal Principles (30 hours)

• Basic Appraisal Procedures (30 hours)

• Appraisal Subject Electives (25 hours)

• 15-Hour National USPAP Course (15 hours)

Once complete, submit your application to become a Registered Trainee Appraiser, along with:

• A $230 application fee

• Proof of course completion

• Fingerprints via a Livescan provider

Step 2: Gain Supervised Experience

Trainee appraisers must work under a certified appraiser who’s in good standing with the state. During this phase, you must:

• Complete 1,500 hours of work experience

• Over at least 12 months

• With at least 150 appraisal assignments

Be sure to use the DBPR’s official experience log to document all work.

Step 3: Apply for Full Certification

When your experience is complete, you can apply to become a Certified Residential Appraiser. This involves:

• Submitting your application and supporting documents

• Paying a $351 fee

• Passing the National Residential Appraiser Exam

• Passing the Florida Supplemental Exam

You’ll now be qualified to work independently across the state.

How to Maximize Your Income

Here are four strategies to grow your earnings as a Florida appraiser:

• Work independently – Set your own hours and choose higher-value assignments

• Specialize in luxury homes – Fees are often higher for waterfront or upscale properties

• Move into commercial appraisal – Consider upgrading to a Certified General Appraiser license to access bigger projects

• Build referral networks – Partner with agents, lenders, and attorneys for consistent work

Common Challenges to Consider

While rewarding, appraisal can be demanding. Expect:

• Deadline pressure during busy market periods

• Travel between properties

• Complex valuation work for unusual homes

• Fluctuating income tied to market trends

To succeed long-term, diversify your client base and set aside savings for slower months.

Ready to Begin?

If you're ready to begin a stable, high-potential career, enroll in your 100 hours of appraisal education through a DBPR-approved provider. With the right training and persistence, you can become a licensed Florida appraiser in just a matter of months.