Which of the following best describes the role of an appraiser?

The role of an appraiser is primarily to provide an unbiased and credible opinion of value, which is crucial for a variety of stakeholders in real estate transactions. An appraiser conducts thorough evaluations of properties, taking into account various factors such as location, condition, and comparable sales data, to arrive at an objective assessment of a property’s market value.

This unbiased opinion is essential not only for buyers and sellers but also for lenders, investors, and other parties involved in real estate transactions. It helps ensure that everyone is informed about the property's worth, which can influence decisions related to buying, selling, financing, or investing.

While aspects of the appraisal process may overlap with other roles in real estate—such as determining prices or representing clients—those functions are not the primary responsibilities of an appraiser. The emphasis on providing an unbiased and credible opinion underscores the integrity and standard that appraisers are expected to uphold, as defined by regulations and professional ethics in the industry.