What must an appraiser have knowledge of to comply with federal regulations?

To comply with federal regulations, an appraiser must have knowledge of antidiscrimination laws and regulations. This understanding is crucial because the Fair Housing Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and other related legislation prohibit discrimination in housing and lending practices. Appraisers are expected to contribute to fair housing efforts by ensuring their valuations are free from bias related to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability.

This requirement aligns with the appraiser's role in maintaining the integrity of the valuation process, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to housing opportunities. Knowledge of these laws allows appraisers to avoid practices that could lead to discriminatory outcomes, thereby upholding not just legal obligations but also ethical responsibilities in the appraisal profession.