The core of this course focuses on the 2020-2021 Uniform Standards of Professional appraisal Practice updates as set forth by the Appraisal Standards Board of The Appraisal Foundation. Also included are issues that appraisers face in their daily appraisal assignments, as well as common USPAP violations. Proctored Exam Required.
The 2020-2021 15-Hour Equivalent USPAP Course will expire on December 31, 2021. The Appraisal Foundation will release a new version of USPAP (2022-2023) on January 1, 2023. In order to receive credit for the 2020-2021 version, you must complete the course within your enrollment period and no later than December 31, 2021.

The core of this course focuses on the 2020-2021 Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice updates as set forth by the Appraisal Standards Board of The Appraisal Foundation. Also included are issues that appraisers face in their daily appraisal assignments, as well as common USPAP violations.
The 2020-2021 7-Hour National USPAP Update Course will expire on December 31, 2021. The Appraisal Foundation will release a new version of USPAP (2022-2023) on January 1, 2022. In order to receive credit for the 2020-2021 version, you must complete the course within your enrollment period and no later than December 31, 2021.

Learn how to interact with short sale sellers knowing how to help them through the tough short sale process while diligently advocating on their behalf. Understand the pitfalls that await buyers of short sale properties so you can provide better protection during the short sale transaction.

Define appraisal review and applicable USPAP rules along with common errors and shortcomings found by appraisal reviewers. Examine USPAP Standards 1 – 3, with a focus on Standard 3, and applicable guidance offered by the Appraisal Standards Board. Review common mortgage industry appraisal forms and appraisal review forms that may be used in a review assignment. Learn best practices for a reviewer when developing opinions and conclusions regarding the quality of another appraiser's work.

Learn the necessary background information to appraise two, four, and multi-family properties. Identify the critical elements of a market analysis of two, four, and multi-family properties and distinguish which features and characteristics are essential to an appraiser's examination. Discover how to analyze income and expenses and how this analysis is used in the appraisal of an income producing property. Review income methodologies and how the appraisal approaches apply to income producing properties. Learn the guidelines, how to compile the required data, and correctly complete the analysis in the preparation of The Small Residential Income Property Appraisal Report (FHLMC 72/FNMA 1025). Review the Operating Income Statement Form (FHLMC 216/FNMA 998).

Emotional support animals, service animals, and reasonable accommodations. How does the concept of reasonable accommodations play out in property management? Explore the issues and options faced by landlords and property managers surrounding assistance animals. Learn to recognize scenarios in which fair housing and ADA laws apply and how to ensure that indiciuals with disabilities have equal access to housing.

Gain a solid foundation in basic appraisal principles. This course focuses on real property concepts and characteristics, legal considerations, influences on real estate values, types of value, economic principles, real estate markets and analysis, highest and best use and ethical considerations. Proctored Exam Required.

Learn how to identify problems when performing an appraisal and develop a preliminary appraisal plan. Differentiate between general and specific data and explain the procedures for collecting and analyzing general and specific data. Explain the purpose of highest and best use analysis and illustrate the techniques for conducting a site valuation. Apply the steps of the sales comparison, cost and income approaches to estimate the value of property. Describe the steps involved in reconciling the value indications into a final estimate of value and differentiate between the various types of appraisal reports. Proctored Exam Required.

The financial and housing crisis of 2008 led to industry changes and reforms, including the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC), the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and the Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD). How did these changes affect appraisers, reviewers and the industry as a whole? Were they welcome? Were they effective? Better To Be Safe Than Sorry will explore those questions as well as delve into the role of the reviewer, the obligations of the appraiser, relevant USPAP regulations, common errors appraisers can avoid, and the importance of structured report writing.

Fair housing law presents an ever changing landscape as new forms of discrimination reach legislative awareness. Licensees have a responsibility to stay informed to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local fair housing laws.
On the heels of the 50-year anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, we review the evolution of fair housing law and look at new and proposed fair housing protections.

Discover ways to build and retain a client base by taking care of those clients. Learn about planning, time management, technologies, real estate markets, and real estate trends. Gain a foundational understanding of the breadth of commercial real estate through learning about office, retail, and industrial property types.

Gain an understanding of the scope of work and the complexities involved in appraising mixed-use, unusual, income-producing and one-of-a-kind properties. Examine various challenging assignment case studies.

This course is a must. Gain an understanding of how the sales comparison approach to property value can differ from other classic methods of property valuation.

If you are new to commercial real estate or deciding if it is the career for you, get a foundational understanding of commercial real estate. In the context of real estate, the terms commercial and investment are commonly used interchangeably. Begin your journey down the road of understanding commercial and investment real estate, the marketplace, and some of the pros and cons of dealing in commercial and investment properties. Leases and how commissions are paid on a commercial real estate transaction will be discussed.

Learn about commercial investment (sale) and lease real estate transactions. Assess how to help clients determine what their needs are when investing in real estate. Examine real estate market forces, investor motivations, investment terminology, and the risks associated with real estate investments. Study the methods used when analyzing real estate investments for buyer clients. Review the transaction flow of a lease transaction for a national retail client including timing of events and the documentation involved in the deal.

Learn how to identify risks and develop a risk management plan.

Real estate is a dynamic industry and the many chages to adapt to a transforming marketplace keep licensees on their toes. Be prepared by learning the four trending issues: MLS Clear Cooperation Policy, iBuying, negotiating nuances, and disaster planning. Understand how to best support your customers and clients in these current trends that impact them and real estate brokerage.

Today’s world requires appraisers to be keenly aware of the expectations of their clients and the compliance obligations required by appraisal regulatory bodies. Recent events of financial turmoil have caused appraisal regulatory agencies and those who use appraisal services to expand or amplify their quality standards. Take an all-encompassing look at best practices for appraisers to recognize and meet those expectations. Learn possible liabilities for appraisers including the appraisal review process and common areas of deficiencies and inadequacies in the appraisal process. Review both acceptable and unacceptable practices related to USPAP compliance, including identifying the problem through the reporting process.

With more than 20 million veterans living in the United States today, real estate professionals can have a powerful and profound impact for those who served all while expanding their business in a patriotic way to an underserved market. Better serving our nation’s veterans and helping military families purchase a home starts with one simple question: “Did you serve?”
Become empowered to provide valuable support to veterans and military families by helping them understand the VA-guaranteed loan program and application process. Learn valuable tools and strategies for serving the unique needs of veterans.

To protect the consumer and mitigate legal issues, licensees must maintain detailed and organized records for each transaction, even if the transaction doesn’t close. Doing so satisfies regulatory requirements and serves as a risk management measure. Good document management provides proof that a licensee did what was required, when it was required.
Learn how to select and timely use transactional documents accurately to ensure all parties are protected.

Real estate agents are often ranked as the least trust worthy professionals. Licensees can help raise the bar and change the public’s perception of the profession through leading by example and following the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) code of ethics.
Learn how to recognize and respond to ethical dilemmas in a way that exemplifies the professionalism and cooperation that is the true foundation of the real estate industry.

The US Congress and state legislatures have made it clear that ensuring everyone equal access to housing is an important goal. Real estate agents need to know what conduct violates anti-discrimination laws to avoid potential liability. Review the mandatory fair housing laws and issues that real estate licensee must understand. Learn the federal anti-discrimination laws, problems that can occur from fair housing violations, and your duties and responsibilities to treat all parties fairly and equally under the law. Explore the differences in which advertisements are viewed within the parameters of the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 and the Communications Act of 1996. Actual court cases and rulings will be presented throughout the course.

Buyers and sellers want assurance that their individual interests are being protected in real estate transactions. Before disclosing any personal information, consumers want to know what type of agency relationship, if any, they have with the real estate professional. Agency laws protect the consumer involved in a real estate transaction. These laws vary by state. However, they all have the same basic requirements. Explore agency concepts and be better prepared to represent your clients and work with your customers.

First-time homebuyers often rely on an agent’s expertise, knowledge, and calm influence for a successful transaction that helps them achieve their goal of homeownership. Learn how to develop a niche target market of first-time home buyers or improve your overall knowledge about how to work with this buyer demographic.

Financing is as integral to real estate transactions as the home itself, and it’s beneficial for licensees to have a clear understanding of the entire financing process. This course will help you to gain a better understanding of the changes the mortgage market has experienced over the years, and introduce you to some loan programs you may not be familiar with, helping you identify better the right financing options for your clients.

This course will explain the difference between an exhibit and an amendment and help the agent to assess the necessary forms for various transactions. Many forms are covered in detail. The course will enhance the agent’s ability to identify the various provisions needed to complete an efficient ethical transaction.

This course provides the 60 hours of real estate instruction all broker applicants in Georgia are required to complete. Topics include real estate agency, contracts, freehold and leasehold estates, property management, finance, government regulations and private restrictions, description and measurement of land, valuation, conveyance, calculations, ethical behavior, and Georgia laws and rules.
In addition to preparing learners for Georgia broker licensing exam it also provides practice with both the multiple choice and simulation question types found on the broker licensing exam. Proctored final exam required to complete the course.

Any Georgia licensee renewing a real estate license must complete 3 hours of continuing education on the topic of license law. This mandated Georgia-specific course breaks down the rules, regulations and laws regarding the practice of real estate into simple, easy to understand content. Topics include: license status as it relates to prohibited conduct, transferring a license, trust account management, unfair trade practices, advertising, brokerage firm management responsibilities, proper handling of real estate transactions, licensees acting as principal, and much more.

Newly licensed Georgia salespersons are required to complete a 25-hour poslicensing course within the first year of licensure. This course fulfills the state’s postlicensing requirement. The course covers topics a new agent will find helpful in working with clients including the listing process, property condition disclosure, buyer representation, purchase and sale contracts, the mortgage process, appraisals and comparative market analysis, client advocacy and negotiation, and much more. Proctored Exam Required.

The environment is of major concern today. Green construction, green energy and green living are hot topics. Real estate agents and appraisers need to understand the basics about “green” as it applies to real estate. Learn how the various systems in a house work independently and in concert to make a house more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Review the elements of green materials and techniques, as well as relevant property characteristics that affect value and the appraisal of the value. Learn what to look for when inspecting the interior and exterior of an environmentally friendly property.

This course will identify criteria for handling earnest money within the guidelines of the Georgia Real Estate Commission. It will delineate the responsibilities of the agent and broker regarding the handling of the funds and the necessity of time constraints. The functions of a trust account and required accounting system are also discussed. Laws governing agents who own rental property are also included in this course.

Becoming an expert in areas that benefit your clients is one of the best ways to promote and market yourself. The more you understand the concepts, processes, challenges, and calculations associated with real estate finance the better you can assist your clients through an often frustrating process.

You will review a brief history of the mortgage industry and its players. Financing, security instruments, and legal clauses commonly included in such instruments will be discussed. Various loan types, including government-backed mortgage programs, will be reviewed as well as mortgage fraud and predatory lending. You will examine the loan process, qualifying standards for borrowers, and mortgage laws.

Flood zones, property inspections, and consumer privacy and data security represent three distinct yet urgent topics in real estate. Take a closer look at each of these areas with an emphasis on how best to support clients and customers. From flood zone disclosure obligations and insurance requirements to inspection contingencies and third-party referrals to federal data security laws and breach notification policies - a lot can go wrong. The real estate professional’s job is to act within the scope of their responsibility to make sure everything goes right.

Fraud has become a major issue in the real estate indutry making the industry no stranger to the white collar criminal. Many lawbreakers use real estate as a vehicle to steal the life savings of unsuspecting homeowners and defraud lenders out of millions of dollars for their own gain. Federal, state, and local governments have taken steps to combat real estate fraud, but it remains a major problem—and one you need to have a solid understanding of to ensure you’re able to shield your clients and yourself from being defrauded or unknowingly committing fraud.

Revisit the basic concepts of property law, including the nature of property, freehold and leasehold estates, possessory and non-possessory interests, co-ownership issues, conveyances, property rights, and restrictions on those rights. Review case studies involving property issues that illustrate these basic concepts.

This course will present the elements of a buyer agency relationship and compares the services offered to clients as well as customers. This course will help an agent formulate a compelling buyer agency presentation.

The Internet is rich with promotional opportunities. Whether it’s a post on Facebook, a tweet linking to your new listing, a status update on LinkedIn, a virtual home tour on YouTube, or photo collage on Pinterest, there are plenty of ways to promote your professionalism, highlight your expertise, increase your connections, and showcase your listings.
Learn to use the unique marketing and advertising tools available through social media to better serve your clients and customers, and promote your brand.

Gain a comprehensive knowledge of the development and application of the sales comparison approach in residential appraisals. Learn how the fundamental principles of valuation and appraisal standards apply when the sales comparison approach is used. Understand the developmental steps in the appraisal process through reconciliation. Familiarize yourself with accepted methodology and techniques used in the sales comparison approach. Review relevant case studies and discussions related to the use of the sales comparison approach in special situations.

Complete the state required Georgia salesperson prelicense education using industry leading course content, thematic and instructional graphics that keep the online course material fresh and compelling, and also reinforce key concepts.

Learn the principles of real property law, ownership rights and interest in real property, brokerage, finance, appraisal, property management, federal fair housing laws, contracts, mortgage fraud, settlement and closing the transaction along with other required topics. This online course combines solid industry fundamentals with the latest Georgia-specific information to prepare you for the Georgia licensing examination. Five different types of interactive exercises keep you focused and increase material retention. This comprehensive course not only prepares you for the state licensing exam, but also lays a solid foundation for a career in real estate. Proctored Exam Required.

Take a comprehensive look at the former real estate crisis and the regulations put in place to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive, and fraudulent mortgage lending practices as a result of the crisis. Review key historical facts and current mortgage-specific regulations that are important for appraisers to know, and understand how they impact the business of mortgage origination and property valuation. Learn how mortgage origination laws pertaining to disclosures, the right of rescission, prohibited mortgage appraiser activities, and private mortgage insurance cancellation impact the appraiser. Analyze the laws and processes that directly impact how appraisers and appraisal management companies must conduct business. Learn the proper use of the Fannie Mae Form1004MC, how to appraise "flipped" properties, and properties facing foreclosure, how market conditions affect appraisals, and the requirements that must be met by appraisal management companies as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act's final rule that amended the Financial Institution Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act.

Learn the specifics of the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics. Examine ethical practices and decision making for real estate professionals. This course meets the NAR required quadrennial Code of Ethics training for REALTORS®.

This is the required course for trainee appraisers as set forth by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB). Learn about the national and state appraisal regulatory bodies and minimum AQB criteria for supervisory and trainee appraisers. Gain an understanding of the ethics and record keeping rules of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), the competency and scope of work rules, and general responsibilities of the supervisory and trainee appraiser. Proctored Exam Required.

Effective January 1, 2015 all Certified Appraisers managing new appraiser trainees must complete a national appraising supervisory course. This is the required course for supervisory appraisers as set forth by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB). Learn about the national and state appraisal regulatory bodies and minimum AQB criteria for supervisory and trainee appraisers. Gain an understanding of the ethics and record keeping rules of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), the competency and scope of work rules, and general responsibilities of the supervisory and trainee appraiser.

Gain insight into the real estate settlement process with a focus on the roles and responsibilities of the lender and title company. Learn how to better support your clients through the loan application and decision (underwriting) process, and how to assist with obtaining the required title clearance and documents. Familiarize yourself with the content and requirements for the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure to better assist your clients in understanding the impact these two disclosures have on the real estate transaction.

Learn how to complete a quality broker price opinion report (BPO)!

Begin by comparing BPOs to appraisals and explain why the BPO has become a favored report in recent years for lenders. You will examine the entire BPO process, including how to get registered, the different types of BPOs, the requirements of each, and how to complete a BPO form. Proper inspections and data gathering are critical aspects of the BPO. You will learn how and where to find this information. There are safety considerations to keep in mind when going to a property. There will be a review of precautions you can take to stay safe while you're in the field.

Attacks on real estate professionals have made headlines at an alarmingly more frequent rate in recent years. While the news print is still wet and the internet still on fire with these shocking stories, everyone vows to do better, and the topic of safety is pushed to the front of training schedules—but then complacency soon sets in again. That is what criminals count on.
Learn methods and practices that best promote safety and review studies and statistics that are somewhat unique to the real estate profession.

Learn the "how-to" of professionally researched and presented comparative market analysis. Licensees who take the time necessary to prepare a well-researched CMA for their clients help their clients make the best decision for their particular situation, protect their interests, and reduce their risk.

Learn the importance of the home inspection contingency and the benefits of properly educating buyers and sellers on the inspection process and any resulting negotiations. This course outlines the disclosure requirements and offers a comprehensive review of inspection types and issues.

An effective property manager is a true asset, maximizing an owner's income and minimizing expenses. Knowledge of the industry in general, and a thorough understanding of leasehold estates, leases, fair housing laws, and fiduciary responsibilities are essential for the professional property manager and any real estate licensee. Examine the characteristics of leasehold estates and commercial leases. Explore the job of the property manager and the wide range of responsibilities and requirements. Evaluate the relationship between the property manager, landlord, and the tenant including the screening, application, and eviction processes.

The ins-and-outs of property management leases.

Examine the purpose of property tax, how it is assessed and how it can be disputed. Learn how appraisers assess property value, how to work with the appraiser and how to refute an appraisal that does not seem to fit the property appropriately.

Contracts are an integral part of the real estate business and most transaction disputes can be traced back to the real estate contract. Learn the different contract classifications and statuses, and the requirements of a valid and enforceable contract. Review the different types of contracts used frequently by real estate professionals. Understand what constitutes a breach of contract and the different methods that can be used to remedy a breach.

Revisit the fundamentals of disclosure as it relates to sellers, buyers and real estate professionals and the obligations of each party. Review the “As Is” clause and the importance of material facts disclosure. Reexamine seller property disclosure and the significance of a home inspection for the buyer. Evaluate the difference between misrepresentation and fraud.