New law improves real estate appraisal certification

State Sen. Susan Paddack said a new state law will help speed up the process for upgrading certification for real estate appraisers. Paddack’s legislation, Senate Bill 1493, co-authored by Rep. Todd Thomsen, was signed into law by Gov. Mary Fallin on Tuesday. The idea for the legislation came from a constituent who was frustrated with the certification process.

“Current practice is to use volunteers to review applications, but because it was strictly done on a voluntary basis there were sometimes not enough or the application reviews might not be the first priority for a volunteer who also is dealing with work and family demands,” said Paddack, D-Ada. “SB 1493 allows the Real Estate Appraiser Board to contract with qualified appraisers to review the applications. Since the reviewers will be paid for their time, we believe it will speed up the process. That’s great news for the applicants because with a higher level of certification, they will have greater earning potential.”

While the Board makes every effort to have the applications reviewed within 90 days, there have been times when it took longer. Supporters say SB 1493 will help expedite the process.

“Government should work efficiently for the people it serves. A slow licensing process impedes an individual’s ability to go out and earn an income. I believe that expediting this process will help Oklahomans get on the job more quickly,” said Thomsen, R-Ada.

The new law took effect when it was signed on Tuesday. The Oklahoma Real Estate Appraiser Board will enact the new procedure for certification upgrades.