Online Real Estate Appraisal Class and Course Overviews

Online real estate appraisal courses teach individuals how to critically review and value property for the real estate market. Appraisal education may be covered in a single course or be part of a comprehensive program that leads to a degree major in real estate business management or business administration.

Overview of Online Real Estate Appraisal Courses

Individuals interested in an online real estate appraisal course learn how to value properties, especially single-family residential properties, by using market comparisons, estimating rebuilding costs and determining the income the property would generate if rented. This course is closely connected to other real estate topics, such as the law of contracts, real estate finance and investing, commercial real estate and real estate ethics. This field of study prepares students for careers as real estate appraisers, real estate agents, property managers and property tax assessors. Some courses fully prepare students for state licensing as a real estate appraiser or agent.

Course Requirements

Online real estate appraisal courses require a computer with an Internet connection. Some schools may require students to use specific Internet browsers to fully access secured educational portals. Generally, students need to know how to navigate a web page, use and attach files to e-mails and create folders. Extensive written communication is required as students interact with each other and their instructor through message boards, chats and e-mail.
Online courses may be self-paced or have set class schedules, and an online teaching assistant may be available. Some may require a proctored exam where an approved person administers any tests in person.

List of Online Real Estate Appraisal Courses

Principles of Real Estate Course

This online course introduces students to the real estate business. Students learn how economic influences affect property values, how the real estate market works, how to appraise properties and how to list and sell properties as well as other topics. This course, which may be self-paced or be on a set schedule, also covers the legal standards and professional ethics expected in the industry.

Real Estate Law Course

Individuals in online real estate appraisal courses may want to consider studying real estate law. Students learn the common laws that apply to property classification, conveyance of property and zoning. The law of contracts is another important area of real estate that should be considered for those interested in this industry as a career.

Real Estate Finance Course

This online course provides a review of the major financial categories surrounding the real estate industry (financial instruments, credit and funds, mortgages and government programs) that may impact the financing of properties, such as new homeowner tax credits. Students may explore the financing of the secondary mortgage markets, mortgage-related securities and capital market operations. Individuals, who want to work as real estate appraisers, may be greatly helped by knowing how the real estate economy works.

Investing in Real Estate Course

Students in this online course learn the steps needed to purchase real property as an investment strategy. Case studies are used to create an investment plan that utilizes various residential and commercial properties. Students explore the various types of investment instruments and learn about the property tax implications of owning real estate.

Commercial Real Estate Course

Online real estate appraisal students may also want to learn how to value commercial properties. This online course teaches them how to list a commercial property for sale and how to sell with confidence along with the various governmental regulations that must be considered. They explore financing options available for commercial property, as well as how to value apartments, office buildings, shopping centers and industrial centers.

Professional Standards in Real Estate Course

Students interested in a career in the real estate industry should consider an online course that teaches the importance of professionalism as a real estate practitioner. Individuals learn the etiquette between clients and agents, as well as the special differences that accompany foreign investors. This course teaches individuals the basic customs and traditions they will experience working in the real estate industry.