technology tools: What is your back up plan? - 08/14/12 02:32 AM
As an appraiser, I rely on data.  I rely on keeping my files safe and secured, and for maintaining them for a minimum of 5 years after they are produced per USPAP and licensing laws.
A number of years ago I decided to go paperless.  So no more file cabinets, manilla folders and printed hard copies.  Now, everything is contained within the appraisal file itself and thus the need for effective back up solutions.
For my appraisals themselves, I use the Vault by Alamode. For $200 a year, I can safely store 1000 files and retrieve them as needed.  I really … (6 comments)

technology tools: Mobility - 1 Handed Inspections - 04/24/09 03:17 AM
They say we should work SMARTER, not HARDER!

These days the work is getting harder with the advent of the 1004MC, HVCC, AMCs, and a host of other terms and lingo - but the good news is, volume is up and the work is getting steady!
I was talking to an appraiser friend locally, who is still using paper for everything.  I was encouraging her to embrace mobile technology to simplify the workflow.
 
 
I have gotten my inspection into the digital age and even down to holding it all with 1 hand!

I have been 100% paperlessnow … (8 comments)

technology tools: What you don't know about your neighbor's home COULD hurt you - 10/31/08 05:22 AM
I recently completed an inspection for an appraisal of a home in my county.  The home was a typical block ranch with needed updates to the flooring, painting, etc.  But the home itself was pretty typical of the area.
The neighbor's home had a fence around it and all seemed just fine to me at the inspection.  All the homes had similar appeal to the area, etc.
Then I pulled the satellite maps from the county assessor's office:

 
So do you think this would have any impact on the value of YOUR home if you lived next door?  The … (1 comments)