Read the recent Valuation Review article titled “Chief appraiser outlines specific diversity and inclusion strategies,” where Jeff Hogan, Chief Appraiser of Valligent, shares his experience in the appraisal industry and his views on the importance of diversity.
The article shares how Jeff is actively engaged in addressing the longstanding issue of diversity and inclusion within the appraisal profession. Having observed the severe lack of diversity in the industry for over three decades, Jeff has become actively involved with appraisal diversity programs aimed at increasing diversity in appraisal. Through these programs, various workshops have been conducted across the United States, and scholarships have been awarded to individuals from diverse backgrounds looking to enter the profession. However, the challenge lies in finding appraiser supervisors willing to provide the necessary field training for trainees. To achieve real change, Jeff emphasizes the need for collaboration between the appraiser community and the lending community, standard policies for state certification and licensing, and a greater willingness among current appraisers to take on trainees.
In the article, Jeff also underscores the importance of collaboration and recognition among all stakeholders, including human resources, management, and appraisal organizations, to promote diversity and inclusion in the appraisal profession. Many individuals from underrepresented communities feel that they do not receive fair property valuations, possibly influenced by implicit bias and stereotypes. By adding diversity to the profession, outdated thinking can be broken down, reducing implicit bias, leading to more accurate valuations, and rebuilding public trust among minority communities.
Overall, Jeff’s commitment to appraiser diversity programs and his call for collaboration and standardized policies aim to make the appraisal profession more inclusive and diverse to improve the fairness of property valuations for all.
To find out more, read the article here.
