Course Descriptions

Education Offerings

The ASFMRA is an internationally recognized leader in Appraisal, Farm Management and Agricultural Consulting training, offering a variety of qualifying education courses, continuing education seminars and accreditation pathways for rural property professionals aspiring to take the next step in their career development. There is something for everyone, from the beginner to the seasoned professional.

The ASFMRA is a not-for-profit professional society and a sponsoring member of The Appraisal Foundation, providing education since 1929 and serving all jurisdictions in the United States.

If you have any questions regarding the courses on this page, please contact Deanna Ilk at 303-692-1222 or dilk@asfmra.org.

Please note that some of the classes listed below are currently unavailable. To view classes that are currently available, visit the Education Calendar.

Appraisal Education

The ASFMRA provides Appraisal Qualifications Board (AQB) and state approved appraisal training for certified general licensure and for continuing education. We also offer accreditation courses leading to the Accredited Rural Appraiser or Real Property Review Appraiser professional designations. These designations will elevate your career by illustrating your dedication to being the best in your field. 

Take a look at upcoming courses available on our Education Calendar.

How to Become an Appraiser | Recommended Education Path

State Appraisal Boards

Courses:

This four-day course will introduce you to real property concepts and characteristics, legal considerations, influences on real estate values, types of value, economic principles, market area analysis, highest and best use, and ethical considerations.

The course should provide a solid foundation in basic appraisal principles no matter what appraisal specialty you pursue.

By successfully completing the course and exam, you will have met most states' education requirements in the content area identified as basic appraisal principles.

If you are considering a career in professional valuation services, your journey should begin with Basic Appraisal Principles.

Co-developed by the Appraisal Institute, ASA, and ASFMRA

Required Equipment & Textbooks: The Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition; HP-12c, HP-17bII or HP-19bII calculator (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Sixth Edition

Contact Hours: 28 hours + 2 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-4: 8 AM - 5 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Trainee, Licensed, Certified Residential, Certified General

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

A102 Basic Appraisal Procedures is an introductory course for those preparing for a career in valuation services. The course is the second in the curriculum sequence of qualifying education required by states for those individuals pursuing appraisal licensure and certification.

Students will learn the basic appraisal procedures with concentration on the appraisal process and an emphasis on rural properties and techniques. Topic themes run throughout the course to focus student learning on defining the appraisal problem, collecting and selecting data, analyzing the data using the three valuation approaches, reconciling the approaches and communicating with the client and intended user of the appraisal service. An integrated case study will guide the students through the appraisal process. Beginning with neighborhood analysis and concluding with the final value opinion, the students will appraise a rural residential property with multiple land uses.

The content is divided into five units: The Valuation Process, Area and Neighborhood Analysis, Highest and Best Use, The Approaches, and Reconciliation. Within each unit there is a set(s) of student learning goals, definitions and concepts, and examples. Each unit is completed with a set of classroom exercises and finally a review and quiz. The student will be well prepared for the exam if they follow the recommended timeline for completing the case study as each unit is presented.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: HP-12c calculator. You must be familiar with calculator operation when the course begins. Answers to problems in course material are shown using the HP-12c. Do not come to class expecting to be taught how to use a financial calculator. (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: The Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition; Appraising Residential Properties, Third Edition; The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Sixth Edition.

Contact Hours: 28 hours + 2 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-4: 8 AM - 5 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Trainee, Licensed, Certified Residential, Certified General

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

The 15-Hour National USPAP Course focuses on the requirements for ethical behavior and competent performance by appraisers that are set forth in the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). The course material emphasizes the role of the appraiser and the impartiality associated with this role. Special responsibilities of the appraiser with regard to impartiality are explored in detail. In addition to lectures, the course includes discussion problems that show how USPAP applies in situations that appraisers encounter in everyday practice. These examples address issues frequently experienced by appraisers as professionals in the appraisal of real property, personal property, and business or intangible assets, and in appraisal review. This course is designed to aid appraisers seeking competency in USPAP, in all areas of appraisal practice including those subject to state licensing or certification and continuing education requirements imposed by professional organizations, client groups, or employers.

Contact Hours: 14 classroom hours + 1 hour exam

Course Timetable: Day 1-2 8 AM - 5 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Trainee, Licensed, Certified Residential, Certified General

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

The underlying theme of all sections are USPAP requirements for ethical behavior and competent performance by appraisers. Discussion will focus on specific USPAP revisions and afford you the opportunity to apply this information through case studies and a review of frequently asked questions and responses of various USPAP topics. The material emphasizes the role of the appraiser, the appraiser's impartiality associated with this role, and helps clarify concepts such as scope of work and when USPAP applies. The special responsibilities of the appraiser with regard to impartiality are explored in detail.

Contact Hours: 7 hours

Course Timetable: Day 1: 8 AM - 4 PM

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This course is specifically designed to meet the 30 hours required by the Appraiser Qualifications Board for Qualifying Education for General Certified Appraisers. The course covers topics such as underlying Sales Comparison Approach definitions and concepts, the analysis of a comparable sale, paired sales techniques, derivation and sequence of adjustments, analysis of properties with multiple land types, reconciliation, and case studies. These topics are discussed with a distinct bent toward the sometimes unique aspects of rural property valuation. Concepts are reinforced through classroom discussion, drill problems and periodic diagnostic quizzes.

Please Note: This course is designed to follow Basic Appraisal Principles and Basic Appraisal Procedures. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level classes.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: HP-12c, Hp-17bII or HP-19bII calculator(Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition; Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Sixth Edition

Contact Hours: 27 hours + 3 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM; Day 4: 8 AM - 4 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Certified General

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This course is specifically designed to meet the 30 hours required by the Appraiser Qualifications Board for Qualifying Education for General Certified Appraisers. The course covers topics such as underlying Cost Approach definitions and concepts. Extensive site or land valuation techniques are presented because of the importance of land in appraising rural properties. Comparable sales analysis includes determining the contributory value of land classes; paired sales techniques; derivation and the correct sequence of adjustments, and analysis of properties with multiple land types. Depreciation analysis covers age-life, modified economic age-life and market derived depreciation to include all forms of depreciation including physical, functional, and external obsolescence. These topics are discussed with relevance toward the unique aspects of rural property valuation. The concepts are reinforced through classroom discussion, drill problems and daily review exams.

Please Note: This course is designed to follow Basic Appraisal Principles and Basic Appraisal Procedures are recommended before taking this class. It is assumed the student has a working knowledge of the HP 12C calculator and has the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level classes.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: Appraisal of Rural Property, 2nd Edition; HP-12c, Hp-17bII or HP-19bII calculator (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: Valuing Rural America; Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition; Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Sixth Edition

Contact Hours: 27 hours + 3 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM; Day 4: 8 AM - 4 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Certified General

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This course is specifically designed as the introductory course to the Income Approach which meets 30 of the 60 hours required by the Appraiser Qualifications Board for Qualifying Education for General Certified Appraisers. The course covers topics such as application of the six functions of $1, underlying income approach definitions and concepts, construction of the income and expense statement, direct capitalization theory and techniques, introduction to yield capitalization, discounting, lease analysis, building and land residual analysis, and straight-line recapture theory and techniques. These topics are discussed with a distinct bent toward the sometimes unique aspects of rural property valuation. Concepts are reinforced through classroom discussion, drill problems and periodic diagnostic quizzes. After successful completion of this course, the student will be prepared for the more advanced topics discussed in the second 30 hour Income Approach module.

Please Note: This course is designed to follow Basic Appraisal Principles and Basic Appraisal Procedures. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level classes.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: Appraisal of Rural Property, 2nd Edition; HP-12c, Hp-17bII or HP-19bII calculator (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: Valuing Rural America: Foundations of Data Analysis, ASFMRA Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition; Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Sixth Edition

Contact Hours: 27 hours + 3 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM; Day 4: 8 AM - 4 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Certified General

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This 30 hour course provides a forum for analysis and discussion of the impacts on the highest and best use of rural real estate for the appraiser. The course is designed for the appraiser who has considerable experience in appraising rural real estate or who has completed the first two levels of core courses and Income I offered by the ASFMRA. The appraiser will learn to determine the highest and best use through the required steps of:

  • Legally permissible
  • Physically possible
  • Financially feasible
  • Maximally productive

Please Note: This is an intermediate skill level course. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level courses.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: HP-12c, HP-17bII or HP-19bII calculator (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: Appraisal of Rural Property, Second Edition

Contact Hours: 28 hours + 2 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM; Day 4: 8 AM - 3 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Certified General

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This course is intended to satisfy the 30 hours of Subject Matter Electives required by the Appraiser Qualifications Board for Qualifying Education for Certified General Appraisers. The course is specifically designed to illustrate how all the approaches to value fit together in an appraisal, drawing from the body of knowledge taught in Cost Approach for General Appraisers (A310), Sales Comparison Approach for General Appraisers (A300), and Income Approach for General Appraisers, Part 1 (A320). The material will be presented primarily in the form of case studies, supplemented with lectures and class discussion.

Please Note: This course is designed to follow Basic Appraisal Principles, Basic Appraisal Procedures, the Cost, Sales and Income courses. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level classes.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: HP-12c, Hp-17bII or HP-19bII calculator (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition; Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Sixth Edition; Appraisal of Rural Property, 2nd Edition

Contact Hours: 27 hours + 3 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM; Day 4: 8 AM - 4 PM

AQB Licensure Requirement: Certified General

Accreditation: This course is required for the ARA and the RPRA

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

The student will apply appraisal methodologies and analytical techniques to rural, urban fringe and a special use facility case studies and drill problems. New methodologies and analytical techniques including trend, bracketing and statistics are introduced and incorporated into the course.

A400 is designed for students who have completed their basic appraisal curriculum courses and are preparing for the comprehensive examination and their appraisal career. It is an excellent course for practicing appraisers seeking exposure to practical applications for current and new appraisal methodologies. It is not recommended to students who have not completed the fundamental appraisal courses.

Please Note: This is an advanced skill level course. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level courses.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: Appraisal of Rural Property, Second Edition; HP- 12c, HP-17bII or HP-19bII calculator (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Optional Equipment: Self-powered laptop computer. (There is NO computer tutoring in this course.) Computers are not allowed during the examination.

Suggested Textbook: The Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition; Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal, Third Edition; Capitalization Theory and Techniques Study Guide. AIREA Financial Tables and The Appraiser's Workbook are available only through the Appraisal Institute at (312) 335-4100.

Contact Hours: 36 hours + 4 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days: 1-5 8 AM - 5 PM

Accreditation: This course is required for the ARA

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This hands-on, how-to 3-day seminar addresses the generally accepted principles and procedures to value partial interests (not fractional ownership interests, but something less than the fee bundle of rights). The seminar provides an overview of the differences between conservation easements prepared under USPAP, UASFLA/Yellow Book and IRS requirements – and their application to partial estate valuations. Other partial interest examples and case studies encompass highway right-of-ways, power lines, pipelines and navigation easements that demonstrate how to solve complex valuation problems and report their results.

Suggested Textbook: Valuing Rural America: Foundations of Data Analysis; Real Estate Valuation in Litigation, Second Edition

Contact Hours: 22 hours + 2 hour exam

Course Timetable: Day 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM

Accreditation: This course is required for the ARA and RPRA.

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

Course A430 is an introduction to eminent domain appraisal. The course is designed to familiarize experienced appraisers with the language, parameters, and methodologies applicable to eminent domain appraising. The concept of the Larger Parcel, peculiar to partial takings, will be presented. The states various eminent domain rules of appraisal will be discussed with emphasis on understanding State Rule No. 2 and State Rule No. 4 (the Federal Rule). The appropriate accounting for what is the “take”, what damages are and what are benefits and the appropriate offsets, if any, are presented. The course explores the legal implications of eminent domain appraising and will familiarize the student to the legal process.

Course problems are designed to instill an understanding of the appraisal decisions and methodologies necessary to complete an eminent domain partial taking assignment. The case study is the acquisition of land for widening of an existing two-lane highway to a four-lane highway. The case study is a State Department of Transportation project submitted for bid. The case study incorporates real life problems and situations that face the eminent domain appraiser. The case study offers the work groups, or individuals, a chance to apply what they have learned in the class to a real life situation. The students are initially asked to approach the case study as if they were preparing a bid analysis determining the larger parcels, highest and best uses, potential damages and benefits. If there is sufficient class time the students may be asked to apply their bid analysis to a valuation analysis.

Please Note: This is an intermediate skill level course. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level courses.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: HP-12c, HP-17bII or HP-19bII (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: Valuing Rural America: Foundations of Data Analysis; Real Estate Valuation in Litigation, Second Edition

Contact Hours: 20 hours + 2 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM

Accreditation: This course is required for the ARA and RPRA

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This course is based on the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions (Yellow Book), sixth edition. In updating these Standards, the Interagency Land Acquisition Conference, incorporated relevant new appraisal methodology and theory, integrated new case law, and ensured appropriate consistency with professional appraisal standards. The content is restructured and revised for clarity and readability, resulting in practical and understandable guidance for appraisers, attorneys, and the public.

The first three sections, Appraisal Development, Appraisal Reporting, and Appraisal Review, parallel The Appraisal Foundation’s Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) STANDARD 1: Real Property Appraisal Development, STANDARD 2: Real Property Appraisal, Reporting, and STANDARD 3: Appraisal Review, Development and Reporting. The Yellow Book’s Section 4, Legal Foundations for Appraisal Standards, explains the legal foundations for the previous sections.

Suggested Textbook: Sixth edition of Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions, commonly known as the "Yellow Book"

Contact Hours: 21 hours + 2 hour exam

Course Timetable: Day 1-3: 8 AM - 5 PM

Accreditation: This course is required for the RPRA.

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

This is an advanced course that is intended primarily to assist students in preparing for Comprehensive Exams and to assist them in entering the proper mindset for working complex appraisal problems. It is intended to be a refresher course for those that have successfully completed the required education for Accreditation. Very little time will be spent on discussing basic principles. Rather, this course will focus on working complex rural based appraisal problems and case studies and allow the students to work closely with the instructors on specific concepts and principles to solidify their understanding. The course will cover complex appraisal theory and case studies with respect to the three approaches to value, highest and best use, eminent domain, and other pertinent material.

Please Note: This is an advanced skill level course. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level courses.

Required Equipment: HP-12c, HP-17bII or HP-19bII calculator (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: Valuing Rural America: Foundations of Data Analysis

Contact Hours: 20 Hours

Course Timetable: Days 1-2 8 AM - 5 PM; Day 3 8 AM - Noon

Accreditation: This course is recommended for the ARA and the RPRA

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

To teach the class participants about the Appraisal Review process through lecture, class discussion, reviewing appraisals, and reporting the results of that review. To teach the class participants about review concepts under the Uniform Standards of Professional Practice (USPAP) there will be case studies for an apartment appraisal, farm appraisal, commercial produce appraisal and one family housing appraisal.

The purpose of this course is to provide training for review appraisers performing reviews of appraisal reports for federal land acquisitions or conveyances. Because this course utilizes the Yellow Book, the format follows the outline of Standard C - Standards for Review of Appraisals. The course material expands on the sections in these Standards with pertinent discussion questions and drill problems.

Sharpen the students review skills through the solution of appraisal review case studies. Assist the student to become a more proficient reviewer.

Please Note: This is an advanced skill level course. It is assumed the student has already gained the level of knowledge and understanding that is taught in the lower level courses such as Valuation of Conservation Easements and Other Partial Interests in Real Estate, and Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions.

Required Equipment & Textbooks: HP- 12c, HP-17bII or HP-19bII calculator; Current edition of USPAP, and Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions (Click here for basic information how to use an HP-12c)

Suggested Textbook: The Appraisal of Real Estate, Fifteenth Edition, Appraisal of Rural Property, Second Edition

Contact Hours: 36 hours + 4 hour exam

Course Timetable: Days: 1-5 8 AM – 5 PM

Accreditation: This course is required for the RPRA

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

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Farm Management Education

The ASFMRA offers the best Farm Management education available in the market place today. Earning your Accredited Farm Manager designation will help you stand out from your peers while boosting client confidence in your qualifications.

Take a look at upcoming courses available on our Education Calendar.

Courses:

Farm Budgeting

  • How are budgets used and the questions a budget should answer
  • What information is needed to prepare a budget
  • Difference between fixed and variable costs
  • Difference between a partial budget and an enterprise budget
  • Cash flow budgets
  • How other budgets fit into a whole-farm budget
  • Farm financial analysis tool
  • Budget case studies

Farm Accounting & Financial Statements

  • Overview of accounting
  • Financial statements
  • Balance sheets
  • Assets and liabilities
  • Income statements
  • Cash flow statements
  • Statement of Owner’s Equity
  • Financial ratios

 Farm Finance

  • How to evaluate an investment
  • Financial modeling in agriculture
  • Introduction to agricultural portfolio management
  • Integrated case study
Required Materials: Laptop, financial calculator and must have a working knowledge of Excel

Contact Hours: 24 hours

Accreditation: This course is required for the AFM

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

Presentation and Selling Skills

  • How to prepare an oral presentation
  • How to effectively use visual aids
  • Speaking to the media
  • Learn about the selling cycle
  • Body language

Negotiation, Conflict Management, Business Proposals and Expert Witnesses

  • Understand the 5 keys to negotiating
  • How to identify and handle conflict
  • How to prepare a business proposal
  • What is an expert testimony and how to prepare for it
  • Professionalism

Business Communication, Controls, Security and Business Structure

  • How to best develop and write business documents
  • Understanding contracts
  • Organizing emails and phone calls
  • Business ethics
  • Explanation and benefits of different types of business structures

Contact Hours: 24 hours

Accreditation: This course is required for the AFM

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

Leasing and Appraisals

  • Definition of leases and the risks associated with each type
  • What is the role of the farm manager when leasing a property for a client?
  • Legal aspects and tax implications of leases
  • Appraisal reports and the three approaches to value

Production and Conservation

  • Important elements of row crop production
  • Cereal grain, orchard and vine production
  • Hay and forage; rangeland and pasture; and seed production
  • Open range and confinement livestock production
  • Woodland and Forestry, aquaculture and organic production
  • Wildlife and hunting land production practices
  • Conservation practices

Risk and Marketing

  • Role of country elevators and terminals in the grain marketing industry
  • Supply and demand
  • Technical and fundamental analysis
  • Futures contract
  • Traders and their impact on CBOT and CME markets
  • How to evaluate market trends using charts, graphs and cyclical patterns

Projects, Locations and Management

  • How to perform a new site inspection
  • Locating a property given any type of legal description
  • Personal property, trade fixtures and real property
  • Risks associated with a property
  • Discuss the five phases of project management
  • Discuss the variety of property risks
  • Record keeping procedures essential for tax reporting
  • Writing a farm plan

Contact Hours: 24 hours

Accreditation: This course is required for the AFM

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

Review for Exam

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Accreditation: This course is required for the AFM

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Agricultural Consulting Education

The ASFMRA is the only professional society that offers Agricultural Consulting education to meet the needs of ag professionals today and into the future. Our ag consulting education is peer-developed, peer-reviewed and geared towards professionals looking to set themselves apart with next-level expertise and client satisfaction. Learn about earning your Accredited Agricultural Consultant designation here.

Take a look at upcoming courses available on our Education Calendar.

Courses:

  • Consulting Standards
  • Troubleshooting Financial Analysis
    • Enterprise budgeting
    • Financial statement analysis
    • Financial ratios
    • Functions of the dollar
    • Comparative analysis of investment options
    • Group activity of tracking ratios back to budgets through statements
  • Report/Business Writing
  • Business Structure
  • Business Contracts
  • Rapid Fire Baseline Concepts
    • Production Practices
    • Principles of Leasing
    • Risk Management
    • Locating and Characterizing Property
    • Understanding Appraisals
    • Practical Application of Budgeting
  • Succession Planning
  • Practice Management

Contact Hours: 24 hours

Accreditation: This course is requred for the AAC

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222

Class I – Advanced Consulting Theory

  • Creative team building/group introduction
  • Identify the role of the consultant
  • How to identify the client's goals
  • How to identify stakeholders
  • Learn how to manage consulting projects, using advanced project management techniques, as well as consulting project management models

Class II – Analytical Methods and Theories of Consulting

  • Learn to use the SWOT Analysis
  • Learn to use Porter's Five Force method of evaluation
  • Learn how to us other analysis tools
  • Introduction to other templates, checklists and other resources
  • Case Studies

Class III – Fundamentals of Data Gathering

  • Why does the consultant gather data
  • How does the consultant gather data?
    • Gathering data to fulfill deliverables
  • Introduction to Tools to gather data
    • Identifying questions you need to ask (scope)
    • Utilizing open-end questions
    • Fact finder (capturing information)
    • Who (stakeholders) do you interview?

Class IV – Advanced Concepts in Technology for the Consultant

  • How to utilize the technology as a consultant
  • Other technological tools available to the agricultural consultant
    • How to make your presentations looks better

Class V – Designing, Delivering and Evaluating the Consulting Solution

  • Does there need to be a review of the scope and of the data?
  • Setting strategies, goals and targets
  • How to present a solution that will be accepted, gain buy-in
  • Providing ROI for changes made
  • Maintaining the consulting solution (quality control)
  • Describing the problem, determining most important factors that contribute to the problem, visualizing what success looks like and creating actions to lead to success.

Class VI – Negotiating the Consulting Engagement

  • Identify the scope of the project
    • Fact finding that leads to the appropriate scope
    • Determine the most appropriate and relevant issues
    • Outlining the deliverables
      • In depth review of the various theories of negotiation
      • Writing the consulting agreement
      • Relevant role playing to enable practicing

Class VII – Selling the Consulting Process

  • Selling cycle
    • The participants strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to focus their business to target markets, as well as identify areas to improve
  • Marketing plan
  • Personalities
    • What is their personality type?
    • What are the characteristics of each personality type?
    • What are the physical needs of each personality type?
    • What are the emotional needs of each personality type?
    • How to work with each personality type
  • Body language analysis
  • Negotiating
    • Study of body language and the connection to negotiation
  • Communication
    • Written and oral, emails and text messages, frequency of communication, mode of communication, etc.

Contact Hours: 24 hours

Accreditation: This course is required for the AAC

For questions about approvals, contact Deanna Ilk at dilk@asfmra.org or 303-692-1222


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Continuing Education

The ASFMRA offers specialized seminars on topics including Timber Property, Mineral Rights, Dairy Appraisal and much more. The complexity of rural appraisal and farm management demands specialized knowledge, and these courses will equip you with the tools necessary to not only meet, but exceed client expectations.

Take a look at upcoming courses available on our Education Calendar.

Seminars:

Target audience: Appraisers

This seminar is designed to give Appraisers, realtors, farm managers and investors a basic understanding of water rights. The seminar describes the different kinds of water rights and offers methodologies to evaluate and value water rights. It is hoped that this seminar will prepare the students to understand local, state and regional water right regulations and issues.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

In order for an Appraiser to see the appraisals through the eyes of a Reviewer, they first need to know what a Reviewer’s role and responsibilities are. The 1-day course will explain who appraisal reviewers are and what appraisal reviewers do. It will also explain why appraisal reviews are completed and what appraisal reviewers can and can’t do. It will explain an appraisal reviewer’s qualifications, the different types of appraisal reviews, discuss the common appraisal errors and what appraisers can do to avoid issues on appraisal reviews.

Contact Hours: 7 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

Agricultural facilities are often the most difficult assignments an appraiser will be asked to tackle. Feedlot facilities are within that category, and no facility is exactly the same. This seminar reviews the underlying appraisal theory relative to facility appraisals and then applies the theory specifically to the valuation of a cattle feedlot. Applicable terminology, facility types and typical operations are presented, followed by discussion of the overall appraisal process beginning with problem identification, leading to the steps to complete and analyze a facility following the traditional approaches to value.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: appraisers

One of the most difficult assignments as an appraiser is the valuation of an agricultural facility. This practical seminar reviews the underlying appraisal theory relative to facility appraisals and then apply the theory specifically to the valuation of a swine / confinement facility. The instructor will walk you through the steps to complete a swine / confinement facility from beginning to end.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This course will attempt to set forth basic definitions and concepts applicable to the oil, gas, and mineral industries. Minerals, mineral ownership and property characterization will be reviewed. Appraisal methods with examples of the application of approaches to value will be provided for oil & gas and mineral properties.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

It is intended that the student attending this 8-hour course will become better equipped to handle and more familiar with the challenges of Appraising Rural Residential Properties in today’s environment. The student will learn what rural lenders and/or underwriters expect of the appraiser and how to better meet those expectations via hands-on drill problems and case studies involving rural residential property examples.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers


This course is designed for appraisers who want to expand their skills to enable them to take on more difficult and complex assignments, and for those who want to learn new techniques for developing creative solutions to complex appraisal problems. This course will give the student a good understanding of various techniques that can be used in appraising unique and difficult properties – the “oddballs.”

Target Audience: Appraisers

It is intended that the student attending this 4-hour course will become better equipped to handle and more familiar with the challenges of Appraising Rural Residential Properties in today’s environment. The student will learn what rural lenders and/or underwriters expect of the appraiser and how to better meet those expectations via presentation by the industry experts of a rapidly expanding non-conventional construction methods concluding with rural residential property examples. Best Business Practices overview highlights the emphasis is on the appraiser to do the right analysis.

Contact Hours: 4

Target audience: Appraisers

This one-day course is designed for professional rural real property appraisers who interact with business appraisers in assignments requiring an equity valuation for estate, divorce, gifting, or transfer purposes.

As an overview, it concentrates on distinguishing the differences in methods of analysis and provides guidance on how rural real estate appraisers can contribute to the business analysis.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This 1-day seminar will provide the student with a background in the cost approach and actual practice in estimating cost using Marshall Valuation Service. Discussions include land value, costs of improvements, profit, depreciation, contributory value of site improvements, indicated value and personal property or intangibles.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Farm Managers and Appraisers

This seminar will help the student understand drainage terms and systems which can then be imparted to management and/or appraisal clients. This knowledge will assist the client in determining the economic impact of drainage on farmland income and valuation.

Contact hours: 4 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

The objective of this course is to provide the student attending the 4-hour seminar the background and tools necessary to prepare appraisal reports intended for use by Farmer Mac and limit the need for report revisions. The student will learn the expectations for appraisal reports prepared for Farmer Mac and how to better meet those expectations via a review of the three approaches to value. In addition, the additional requirements and forms will be identified and addressed. The Best Practices overview will highlight the most common reasons for revision requests in appraisals completed for Farmer Mac, other USPAP requirements most often overlooked by appraisers, and address report contents and presentation.

Contact hours: 4 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

Highest and Best Use is often cited by reviewers as an area of weakness in appraisals. While proficiency with HBU is fundamental to the appraisal process, it is a tricky concept. This seminar is designed to hone your understanding of the application of HBU analysis in the appraisal process. You will review the terminology, process and methods of market analysis and highest and best use analysis as applied to real property appraisal. Using illustrations from rural and urban real estate, the seminar utilizes many examples to demonstrate the application of these processes and drill problems to give you practice in applying this knowledge.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This 1-day seminar is intended to reinforce the concepts of the Income Approach and its application to the overall appraisal process. The seminar introduces improved techniques for estimating the value of income-producing rural property by converting anticipated benefits into property value. The seminar is intended to not only review the various formulas and procedures utilized for deriving various rates of return, but also to develop an understanding of the inter-workings of these derived rates such that the appraiser can more accurately interpret market movements.

Contact hours: 8 hours

It may not be legal in your state yet…..The Introduction to Cannabis Operations and Valuation seminar is designed to introduce students to basic terminology, processes, and methods of valuing a cannabis operation with emphasis on real property valuation.

Students will learn about the various legal and land use regulations pertaining to this unusual commodity (both State and Federal) and about the importance of a well-prepared and well-written Highest and Best Use analysis. Discussion will include the potential challenges and common pitfalls of valuing special use facilities with a focus on understanding key components and commonalities found in most cannabis operations.

The seminar will enable students to successfully identify and understand variations in growing methods and facilities associated with medicinal, recreational and industrial hemp; review actual construction costs for a well-prepared Replacement Cost New (RCN) analysis; and understand what analysis is necessary for the production of a credible and supported opinion of value.

Target Audience: Appraisers

As of 2012, there are wineries located in all 50 states and wine grapes are grown in every state except Alaska. Further expansion of this agricultural industry is predicted in the coming years. Would you like to learn more about it? This course provides an introduction to vineyard and winery valuation concepts and methodologies. Students will learn about the different growing regions within the U.S., as well as general terminology, growing conditions, and consumer trends. Discussions will include what physical components are most important in the valuation of a winery facility and what’s currently driving vineyard values. Learn how to apply the Discounted Cash Flow analysis to a permanent planting. Understand and discuss the difference between a “boutique” operation and a “commercial” facility and which one is thriving and why. This course is meant to provide a look at one of agriculture’s more interesting industries. This is an introductory seminar, so even if you have no experience in this use-type, you are sure to come away with something new in your tool box.

Course Hours: 8 hours

Target Audience: Appraisers

The objective of this seminar is to orient the students on how to inspect a livestock ranch, analyze water rights, soils, grazing permits and leases, prepare a land inventory, estimate forage production (carrying capacity) and analyze forage balance. This seminar addresses only ranches whose Highest and Best Use is as a livestock ranch. The students will be exposed to the three approaches to value and different sales analysis methodologies for valuation of ranches.

This seminar offers an perspective to appraisers, real estate brokers, lenders and investors of how to analyze and value a livestock ranch.

Course Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This course is designed to refamiliarize appraisers and other valuation experts on the need for concise, relevant, and timely market area descriptions in valuation and appraisal reports. The presentation will also focus on the applicability of a well-researched industry analysis when working with special use facilities and other segments of real estate where economic impact within the industry has a direct impact on the real estate associated with it. The course is designed to be interactive and students will work together to complete a written assignment upon conclusion of the instructional segments. Students are required to bring a laptop.

Contact Hours: 8

Target audience: appraisers

This seminar will address issues related to the completion of agricultural appraisals using techniques deemed “best practices." The seminar will help the appraiser to consistently exceed the expectations of intended users and the standards and practices of their peers for similar assignments. ‘Best Practices’ is intended to reinforce the need to continually question the use of existing techniques and methodology, promote innovation, and improve the quality of appraisals being completed by rural appraisers. Users of farm appraisal reports will benefit from more thorough, readable reports and reliable, well supported valuations. Those taking the seminar will benefit from increased confidence and perceived value in appraisal results and improved reputation for quality and professionalism.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This class will give a summary of how the Equivalency Ratios and the Equivalent Acres are used in day-to-day appraisal operations. Using the Real Estate Market to find, understand and analyze an important skill to have in your toolbox. Extracting the Ratios from the Market is the largest part of this class. Knowing how to adequately use these Equivalency Ratios will eliminate the need to calculate the Land Mix Adjustment.

Contact Hours: 4

Target audience: appraisers

Are "rights appraised" only fee simple, or is there more to this? Properties have evolved over the years and it is rare to find a property that doesn't have restrictions on the title ranging from life estates, utility and access easements, cell tower sites, deed restrictions, mineral rights and more - some of these encumbrances may or may not have an impact on value; however, to report "fee simple" is misstating the facts and could create an issue or liability to the appraiser. Come and learn more about why you haven't heard this before and what your approach should be.

Target audience: Appraisers

This 1-day course introduces and demonstrates with case studies market-driven valuation methods to support value opinions of properties with a highest and best use for timber production. Students will focus on proper sales analysis, quantitative method to isolate and support the highest and best use, quantification of a land and timber mix adjustment in the sales comparison approach and consistent analysis of subject and sales.

Contact hours: 4 hours

Target audience: Appraisers, Farm Managers

This 1-day course will provide the accountant, attorney and land owner with the history of the conservation easement and facts surrounding their increasing use. The source of funds and development of the land trust movement will be explained. The IRS and the involvement of the attorney, accountant, appraiser and landowner will be explained. The appraisal document, its development and its intricacies will be explained and discussed. A look at the changing world of easements will complete this interesting and helpful course. This seminar was developed jointly with ASA.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

There is a great deal of expertise and knowledge that go into valuing a Dairy Farm. Learn about the definition of values issues, waste management, environmental and zoning issues, water supply and water rights, manure easements and leases, property rights values, industry analysis/feasibility studies and of course highest and best use. Walk through a case study and gain real practice with these principles and how they are utilized in a complex dairy appraisal.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

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Retired CE

These seminars are no longer available for enrollment due to outdated content. Although these seminars are retired, they may be available in the future after being updated to reflect the latest trends and practices. 

If you are interested in any of the topics below, please contact the Education Department via email at education@asfmra.org.

Seminars:

Target audience: Professionals who are not appraisers but who deal with appraisals.

This 2-day seminar provides users of appraisal services – attorneys, lenders, accountants, regulators and estate planners – an understanding of a report’s acceptability and conformity to institutional, regulatory and agency requirements. The seminar prepares the reviewer with the ability to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of the information that assist in making sound business decisions including: buy/sell scenarios, establishment of book value and collateral evaluation in underwriting. The student uses actual appraisal report case studies, ranging from residential reports, farm reports and narrative reports. This is an entry-level course, not for the practicing appraiser, directed toward bank examiners, regulators, loan and credit underwriters, accountants, lawyers, agency administrative reviewers, and corporate decision makers.

Contact Hours: 16 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This course is designed to provide specialized training and recognition for valuators and loan officers who place values on agricultural personal property. The course is a 2.5 day event with class room lectures, onsite visits of agriculture facilities, and an exam.

The classroom portion is a combination of PowerPoint presentations, class discussions, and work problems. The onsite visits consist of visual observation of chattels in place and operating. The experience will allow the attendee an opportunity to visually identify the chattel, determine the quantity and quality, locate chattel identity information, and interact with chattel owners and valuation professionals. The exam will cover all aspects of the chattel valuation process and include work problems related to chattel value determination.

Contact Hours: 16 hours + 2 hour exam


Target audience: Valuators and Loan Officers

This course is designed to provide specialized training and recognition for valuators and loan officers who place values on agricultural personal property. The classroom portion is a combination of PowerPoint presentations, class discussions and work problems.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

Alternative investments have become an attractive asset category with the farmland sector offering growth and potential to not only investors, but appraisers looking to expand their services. The Alternative Investments, Agriculture as an Asset seminar is designed to introduce appraisers to history, terminology, key-players, National Council of Real Estate Investment Fiduciaries (“NCREIF”) appraisal guidelines, and best practices; reviewer and asset manager perspective will also be provided. Discussion will include the potential challenges and common pitfalls of valuing large-scale investment class properties. Case studies will force out-of-the-box thinking and offer real world examples and tools.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

Across North America, land is transitioning from traditional agricultural uses to alternative uses. Everyone is familiar with land being converted from agricultural to urban or suburban uses. This seminar explores new land uses that include wildlife and waterfowl production and habitat areas, public and private hunting preserves, fish production areas, recreational use of the land for hunting, fishing and trophy ranches as well as land that is responding to residential or commercial development pressure. Case studies from divergent areas of the country are presented in this seminar to demonstrate the various analytical skills and appraisal methodologies necessary to estimate market values for land that is moving to non-traditional uses. Analysis of property highest and best use becomes an important component in appraising transitional land. Class members will be exposed to several approaches to analyzing property highest and best potential uses. The case studies presented in this course are designed to assist appraisers, review appraisers and managers in dealing with valuation issues pertaining to land in transition from traditional agricultural uses.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

One of the most difficult assignments an appraiser will encounter is the valuation of an agricultural facility. This seminar reviews the underlying appraisal theory relative to facility appraisals and then apply the theory specifically to the valuation of a poultry farm. In this seminar, we will discuss what is actually being valued in an agricultural facility, review applicable terminology, discuss the overall appraisal process beginning with problem identification, then walk through a real-world example detailing sales analysis and following through all the traditional approaches to value.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

An advanced course designed to apply valuation techniques to properties which include mineral rights, water rights, timber and/or wind. The course differentiates between each of these property rights, yet identifies whereby the basic valuation process can be applied. Appraisal procedures and techniques are addressed emphasizing market extraction or all components used in the three approaches to value. The mineral section of the course contains segments which consistently apply the appraisal theory and procedures to elements such as surface mining. The water section deals with commercial and recreational applications, split estates and ownership. Timber, mineral deposits and water rights are uniformly analyzed to demonstrate common valuation processes applicable to otherwise unique and complex properties. This course provides practical applications in each of the valuation approaches through case studies.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target Audience: Appraisers

This course is designed as a refresher and basic overview of the three approaches and highest and best use that will benefit appraisers and users of appraisals. The course is excellent for individuals with some real estate appraisal background and practitioners in other real estate fields such as finance, sales, government or others who want a broader knowledge of the rural appraisal process in addition to reinforcing their understanding of appraisal fundamentals. This course is good knowledge for the non-appraisers that will be reviewing appraisals for lending institutions and for appraisers who need a refresher in basic rural appraisal.

Contact Hours: 24

Target audience: ASFMRA Members who need to meet their Ethics requirement. Members must take and pass the Ethics course within two years of joining ASFMRA and every six years thereafter.

ASFMRA members are known as The Most Trusted Rural Property Professionals because they adhere to strict standards and a code of ethics. Keeping your skills sharp and maintaining your stature as one of the best in the business is what this class is all about. “Best in Business Ethics” is a fresh approach to ASFMRA Ethics and Governance and one that we will continually refine, based upon your input. In this class you will hear thought-provoking case studies that are in fact challenging real life situations. You will have an opportunity to hear from experts in the field and discuss these case studies and the principles derived from them. In addition to the ethics learning, there will be a quick review of the crucial important elements of Society rules and policies.

Contact Hours: 4 hours + 1 hour exam

Target audience: Consultants, Farm Managers

This seminar addresses capital improvements, financial budgeting and international consulting for the Farm Manager and the Agricultural Consultant. Many agricultural assets have an economic life of 10-20 years, and some longer. Learn how to conduct an investment analysis to be sure assets enhance the profitability of the business and generate ample cash flow. Also learn about the major tools used in determining the financial strength of agricultural businesses. The three major financial tools will be examined along with their roles as indicators of financial growth. Finally, learn about the opportunities and the central considerations in international agricultural consulting. LAPTOP REQUIRED

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This 1-day seminar sets forth up-to-date techniques for establishing market value by estimating the current cost to reproduce or replace the existing structure. Students will learn how to measure depreciation from market data, when use of cost approach is most and least applicable and how to establish value when using this approach. Discussion will cover physical curable, physical incurable short lived, physical incurable long lived, functional curable, functional incurable and accrued depreciation.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Consultants, Farm Managers

A two hour overview on dealing with Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) permitting. What it means, what are the pitfalls, how to manage a CAFO project, developing CNMPs, various permit formats, consulting protocols, and working with other entities such as P.E.s, CCAs, NRCS, Environmental Agencies, managers, owners, and manure applicators. Some hands on examples.

Contact hours: 2 hours

Target audience: Farm Managers

This course begins with the essential vocabulary of spreadsheets and databases and moves the student into designing, formatting and creating a formatted, consolidated workbook with formulas, functions, and range references. The workbook will be used for budgets and cash flows on a simple case study. The purpose of the workbook will be to learn the features of Excel that simplify data analysis. The case study data will be used for sensitivity analysis, scenarios, goal seek and break-even analysis using data tables. An expansion on the case will allow several years data to be studied for trends using outlining tools, pivot-tables, and pivot charts.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target Audience: Appraisers

Commercial Greenhouse facilities are scattered throughout the United States, with clustering of facilities in geographically superior locations. They range in size from less than one acre under roof to hundreds of acres with production ranging from fresh vegetables and herbs to bedding plants and cut flowers. This course provides an introduction to the forces of value for these industries. Students will learn about the components of greenhouse facilities with significant photographic documentation. All three approaches to value will be discussed and demonstrated. Sales analysis and depreciation analysis will also be discussed and demonstrated. The course will include a brief review of the history of the industry over time, the top 100 growers in the country, key value factors, geographical design differences, and more. This course is meant to provide a look at one of agriculture’s more interesting industries. This is an introductory seminar, so even if you have no experience in this use-type, you are sure to come away with something new in your tool box.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This seminar will provide an introduction to statistics and valuation modeling. In the seminar the basics of statistical analysis will include terminology used in statistics, and through the use of problem solving and case studies introduce the class participant to linear and multiple regression techniques using Excel. The seminar is not meant to make you a statistician but to familiarize yourself with the use of statistics in the appraisal world.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target Audience: Appraisers

In the Introduction to Permanent Plantings Seminar an overview of the types of permanent plantings will be outlined including orchards, vineyards and other permanent crops. The issues that affect the value of permanent plantings will be addressed along with a discussion of the life cycle of permanent plantings and economic considerations that may have an impact on the economic life of the planting. An opinion of highest and best use, both as vacant and as improved with the planting will be developed addressing each of the four tests of highest and best use. The approaches to value, including the cost approach, the sales comparison approach and the income approach will all be discussed. A land value will be estimated for use in the cost approach and a cost analysis and the theories used in the cost approach will be analyzed leading to a value estimate by the cost approach. In completing the sales comparison approach several sales of permanent planting properties will be considered and used to develop a value estimate comparing the various attributes of the subject property and the comparable sales. In developing the income capitalization approach typical income and expenses will be reviewed for a permanent planting property, capitalization rates and yield rates will be developed using different methodologies and a value estimate will be developed. A discussion of sources of data for use in the three approaches will provide the seminar participants an opportunity to share their experiences in obtaining relevant data. Reconciliation between the approaches to value will be discussed leading to a final estimate of value.

The seminar is considered to be an introductory level offering providing an introduction to the permanent plantings class of property and the valuation of these property types.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

Nicknamed “skyscrapers of the plains”, grain elevators are an important part of US agriculture and international agri-business. Grain elevators are special purpose facilities which include both real estate and equipment components. In this seminar, you’ll learn how a grain elevator works—both mechanically and economically. Gain an appreciation for the various types of grain elevators, construction features and learn grain industry jargon.

Hundreds of large “on-farm” grain storage facilities have been constructed across the country in the past three to five years. Many rural appraisers are being asked to appraise these facilities as part of large farming operations. On-farm grain storage and drying facilities will be thoroughly discussed in the seminar. A fascinating case study demonstrates how to handle diverse farm headquarters and grain storage appraisal assignments. Gain depth in your understanding of grain drying systems and the economics associated with grain drying and storage.

All three approaches to valuation of grain elevators are explored in this seminar. Learn how to abstract various forms of depreciation and obsolescence from elevator sales and comprehend the applications of replacement cost new versus reproduction cost new. Discover the importance of performing owner/operator income and expense analyses—and the applications of EBITDA and NOI analysis. Understand the units of comparison that are pertinent to grain elevator valuation. Upon completion of the Valuation of Grain Elevators seminar, appraisers will experience an appreciation of the grain elevator business’s complexity and will gain a deeper understanding of valuation issues applicable to special purpose grain elevator assets. We will discuss On Farm Grain Storage and Grain Drying in addition to Commercial Grain Elevators in this seminar.

This seminar was developed for ASFMRA by Jeffrey Berg, ARA, ASA, FRICS owner of Crown Appraisals, Inc. Berg is a nationally prominent appraiser of special purpose agri-business facilities—mainly grain elevators, seed conditioning plants, fertilizer agronomy facilities, feed mills and other large agri-business facilities.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This 4-hour seminar assists appraisers in identifying the characteristics of property and the real estate involved. This course helps students identify the characteristics of the property that are relevant to the type and definition of value and intended use of the appraisal, including its location and physical, legal and economic attributes, and how to describe information to identify the real estate involved in the appraisal, including the physical and economic property characteristics relevant in the assignment.

Contact hours: 4 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This 1-day seminar is ideal for the Professional Appraiser interested in the complex appraisal problems associated with valuing minerals, mineral rights, and mineral lands. The valuation of properties with producing and non-producing oil, gas, coal, gravel and other minerals is discussed.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: appraisers

This course is designed to be practical and is intended to assist both the experienced appraiser and the beginning appraiser. The material is divided into sections that provide a brief discussion of the basic principles underlying each of the three approaches to value, highest and best use and other pertinent material. Most of the classroom time will be devoted to working through real-world rural based appraisal problems and short case studies with time allotted to allow students to work closely with the instructor on specific concepts and principles to solidify their understanding. A financial calculator is a necessity to work through most of the work problems.

Contact Hours: 8 or 16

Target audience: Appraisers

This seminar will provide a review and discussion of the appraisal report writing process, a discussion of alternative ways report sections can be presented and a discussion of common error in appraisal reports.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

The development of a reliable market database includes the discovery, confirmation, analysis and archiving of real estate sales. The objective of this seminar is to focus primarily on the confirmation process. The class participant’s past experience in these four steps is likely varied, but complete sales analysis is not possible without in-depth sales confirmation. Analysis of the market data collected, for use in yield capitalization, and estimating accrued depreciation is a secondary focus.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This seminar is intended to reinforce the concepts of the Sales Comparison Approach and its application to the overall appraisal process. The seminar is intended to not only review the various formulas and procedures utilized in the development of an opinion of value by the Sales Comparison Approach, but also to develop an understanding of the inner workings of this approach to value so that the appraiser can more accurately interpret market data.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target Audience: Farm Managers, Agricultural Consultants

Our presentation will empower you to help your clients understand their current succession and business plan and how it relates to where they want to end up.

Specific tools we will discuss to accomplish the clients’ goals include:

  • Understanding working lands ownership is a business-how to treat it accordingly with a preselected successor to run “the business” in the event of:
    • Disability
    • Planned Retirement
    • Death
  • Asset Protection (relating to the structure under how the land is owned and/or operated)
  • Differences & Benefits in S Corporations, C Corporations, LLCs, FLPs, etc
  • Federal and State Income and Estate (Death) Tax Strategies
  • Living and Death Probate
  • Living Trusts (as a will replacement vehicle)
  • Revocable v. Irrevocable Trusts
  • Property and Health Care Powers of Attorney (and living Wills)
  • Charitable Trusts
  • Planning with Insurance
  • Choosing a Trustee, Executor, and Guardian
  • Consistent Plan Reviews & Maintenance
  • SUMMARY: Coordinate Landowners’ Goals in All Areas Where They Affect the Land

Course Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This seminar is designed to enhance the understanding and use of comparable properties. It does not address the use of comparables in every valuation situation that may exist. Many situations are beyond the scope of this presentation. If time permits the instructor will try to answer questions about specific methodology and techniques. If questions are not able to be answered, students are encouraged to pursue an appropriate course covering that aspect of valuation.

Contact Hours: 7 hours

Target audience: Appraisers, Farm Managers

For the beginner to advanced user, this seminar will move attendees from basic spreadsheet concepts to advanced analytical techniques. Everyone will pickup hints and techniques for adding graphics, formatting and debugging. Participants will be able to use Excel appropriately in each of the approaches and gain objective mathematical tools for adjustments. Appraisers and managers will learn to compare sales using soils data land-use mix and building mix through automated scoring. LAPTOP REQUIRED
Beginner concepts include vocabulary, user interface, and generating functions and formulas.

Intermediate concepts will cover absolute and relative references, filtering, named range references, importing from outside sources and exporting data to other programs.

Advanced concepts will examine grouping and outlining, pivot tables and What-If Analysis.

Contact hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

This seminar centers on concepts for building-intensive properties in rural areas. The price allocation between land and building is complex. Most situations involve multiple buildings or rural “compounds," where consistent analysis is key. Mini case studies emphasize differing uses in several geographic locations across the United States. Property types range from Executive Retreats to Fishing Estates, Mountain Campgrounds purchased and converted to single use due to low property inventories, Equestrian Ranchettes, Mixed Timber/Recreation types, Trophy Ranches, River Horse Facility, Barn Restoration, and small- to medium-sized properties purchased in several hundreds to thousands of acres as “getaways” from the impact of COVID-19. Are we reporting Market Value or COVID Value?

Contact Hours: 8 hours

Target audience: Appraisers

Come and explore new concepts in this urban versus rural appraisal environment. Issues arise when sales are utilized to value a property rather than comparable sales and long standing land mix analysis. A genesis of the land mix methodology will be presented and new concepts regarding land mix will be introduced and thoroughly explained and demonstrations of new processes will be applied to various property types. This session also provides an overview of the new educational and practical textbook, produced by the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.

Contact Hours: 8 hours

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