What is the primary purpose of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)?

The primary purpose of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) is to establish ethical standards for appraisal professionals. USPAP provides a framework for appraisers to follow, ensuring that they perform their services with integrity, competency, and impartiality. This set of guidelines helps maintain public trust in the appraisal process by laying out clear expectations for professionalism and ethical conduct.

By adhering to USPAP, appraisal professionals are required to adhere to a consistent set of standards that govern not only their procedures but also their ethical responsibilities. This includes requirements for addressing conflicts of interest, ensuring the independence of their opinions, and maintaining confidentiality.

The other options do not capture the main focus of USPAP. It does not regulate property taxes, define legal property boundaries, or certify appraisal courses, although it may influence practices related to those areas indirectly through responsible appraisal methods. However, its founding principles are rooted in establishing and maintaining high ethical standards within the appraisal profession itself.