What is a critical requirement when performing an appraisal assignment?

Maintaining objectivity and impartiality is vital when performing an appraisal assignment because the integrity and accuracy of the appraisal are paramount. Professional appraisers must base their evaluations on factual data and established methodologies rather than personal beliefs or assumptions. Objectivity ensures that the appraisal is conducted in a fair and unbiased manner, which helps to build trust between the appraiser, the client, and other stakeholders while providing reliable and defensible results.

This impartiality is essential in upholding the standards set by appraisal regulatory bodies and professional organizations, as it impacts the final value conclusion. An appraiser who is not objective risks compromising the validity of their report, potentially resulting in misrepresentation or disputes over property value.

The other choices present practices that would detract from the professionalism required in the appraisal process. Personal opinions should not affect the valuation, and a defined methodology is essential for consistent results. Additionally, client input can be valuable to ensure that the appraisal meets the needs associated with their specific situation, so completing a report without consideration of it would also be counterproductive.