Testifying Appraiser I - Review Appraisal Division

Harris Central Appraisal District•Houston, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This entry-level position in the Review Appraisal Division is responsible for reviewing all relevant data related to pending real property lawsuits filed against HCAD. The role involves assisting in the preparation and presentation of value defense or advising in the settlement of litigation cases. Key duties include obtaining accurate property information, applying accepted appraisal methods and techniques, and appearing as an expert witness to testify in legal proceedings. Responsibilities also encompass writing market, uniform/equal, and appraisal review reports, as well as preparing for SOAH hearings.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree.
Registered Professional Appraiser (RPA) Certification for internal candidates.
2+ years’ appraiser/valuation experience.
Report writing.
Valuation analysis procedures.
HCAD standards of documentation.
Understanding of USPAP Compliance.
Market conditions.
Knowledge of new and revised tax laws and Texas Property Tax Code.
Real Estate Terminology.

Nice To Haves

Advanced appraisal designation, or related appraisal license or certification nearing completion for external candidates preferred.
This includes Appraisal Institute or other related coursework started for a TALCB License.
Previous exposure to the litigation process and experience as an expert witness, preferred.
Advanced appraisal courses from IAAO and Appraisal Institute preferred.
Real estate background knowledge preferred for external candidates.

Responsibilities

Research and analyze property information by collecting and verifying data.
Assist in trial preparation, depositions, attend mediations, and give expert witness testimony for trials.
Perform property inspections.
Assist with technical reports and manual preparation and construction.
Conduct special projects.
Update software database as needed.
Perform review appraisals as necessary.
Use appraisal methodology to arrive at reasonable value indications based on discovery data and other information and research data.
Work effectively and efficiently with attorneys.
Prepare files and offers for settlement conferences, mediation and court.
Availability to communicate with attorneys after working hours.
Ensures compliance with USPAP Appraisal Practices & Processes.
Develops case management capability.
Utilize Generally Accepted Appraisal Practices along with Market Data Analysis.
Create a professional presence through actively listening and ensuring effective communication with attorneys and others. Maintain confidentiality.
Represent HCAD in a professional manner in at all times. Responds positively to others with a willingness to work efficiently in all departmental matters.
Determine strategy of cases based on informed decisions; Analyze information pertaining to the case (history, evidence, issues) and create reports that will be used to determine course of action; Evaluate risks for and against a recommended decision, while considering all implications and consequences and necessary costs.
Achieve departmental goals by working cooperatively with attorneys, management, and all others while representing in a team player atmosphere.
Create all report types in a timely manner for courtroom testimony.
Work efficiently on case management.
Represent the District in trial court, at depositions, and at inspections in a professional manner.
Ability to defend and explain their expert report in court and at depositions.
Perform oral and written market value appraisals, equity analysis, appraisal reviews and other pertinent documentation to be used as evidence for expert testimony in litigated cases.
Must meet mandatory deadlines.
Perform other duties as assigned.