Commercial Appraiser

AEI Consultants•Chicago, IL

1h•Remote

About The Position

AEI Valuation is seeking a Commercial Real Estate Appraiser to independently prepare high-quality appraisal reports across a wide range of property types. This role is well suited for professionals who value analytical rigor, professional standards, and efficiency, while minimizing unnecessary administrative burden. At AEI, we are focused on delivering a best-in-class client experience, defined by clear and proactive communication, meeting deadlines, and producing consistent, defensible appraisal work. Each appraiser plays a critical role in achieving this standard and is expected to take ownership of both the quality of their work and the client experience throughout the assignment lifecycle. Appraisers manage assignments from engagement through final delivery, work directly with clients, and contribute meaningfully to the continued growth of AEI’s valuation platform. AEI Valuation is not a standalone appraisal practice. We are part of AEI Consultants, one of the nation’s largest employee-owned commercial real estate due diligence firms, providing integrated environmental, property condition, zoning, land surveying (ALTA/NSPS), and valuation services throughout North America. This integrated platform gives our appraisers access to better data, broader context, and deeper insight into real estate risk and opportunity—allowing us to deliver valuation work that is both technically sound and practically useful to our clients. Our appraisers collaborate closely with in-house experts across disciplines, providing a level of perspective and consistency that traditional appraisal firms simply cannot match. AEI appraisers benefit from a strong base of traditional lender clients, as well as non-lender clients who engage AEI for environmental, property condition, zoning, and survey services. This integrated model provides consistent workflow, diversified assignments, and exposure to more complex real estate scenarios—while supporting predictable timelines and client expectations. AEI appraisers utilize best-in-class industry tools, including CoStar, LightBox Report Writer, Argus, and third-party data platforms. In addition, AEI has developed an internal AI-enabled appraisal workflow that increases appraiser capacity—allowing for higher-quality reports delivered in less time. This structure enables appraisers to focus on analysis, interpretation, and key valuation issues, while maintaining responsiveness and meeting deadlines. For appraisers seeking additional leverage, AEI offers access to a dedicated pool of valuation analysts. This structure allows appraisers to concentrate on judgment, narrative development, and valuation conclusions, while analysts support data assembly and lower-value tasks—helping maintain consistency and on-time delivery. AEI is deeply committed to culture and inclusion. We are intentional about who we add to the team because we want to preserve an environment where: Professionals respect one another’s expertise Collaboration is authentic and cross-disciplinary People take pride in their work and the service they provide to clients Our goal is to make AEI a place where talented professionals choose to build long-term careers, not just complete assignments.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of commercial real estate appraisal experience
State Certified General Real Estate Appraiser required
Advanced knowledge of valuation theory, financial analysis, and appraisal reporting
Proficiency in MS Office, comparable databases, and AI-enabled workflows
Strong written, verbal, and analytical skills, with a focus on client communication
Bachelor’s degree required

Nice To Haves

MAI designation preferred, but not required

Responsibilities

Independently prepare commercial real estate appraisal reports from cover to cover
Define appropriate scope of work based on client objectives (financing, estate, reporting, investment, or sale)
Select and apply Cost, Sales Comparison, and Income Capitalization approaches
Perform market studies, highest and best use, and feasibility analyses
Research, verify, and analyze sales, listings, rents, operating data, zoning, land use, and ownership information
Inspect subject and comparable properties and conduct market interviews
Utilize Argus and third-party databases to support valuation conclusions, as needed
Maintain clear communication with clients and internal team members throughout the assignment
Ensure full compliance with USPAP, FIRREA, and client-specific requirements
Contribute to AEI’s internal comparable database and quality initiatives
Mentor junior appraisers and analysts as appropriate