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Residential Appraiser

Class Title: Residential Appraiser

Salary: $31.70 - $47.56 Hourly

Job Summary

Incumbents are responsible for Scott County's real estate valuation and property classification of residential and agricultural property types for tax assessment purposes. Incumbents perform work of considerable difficulty in appraising property for tax assessment purposes and are the primary and often only contact between the county and property owners/taxpayers regarding property valuation and classification. Appraisers must meet licensing requirements established by the MN Department of Revenue. Ongoing duties include: performing field inspections in assigned areas, maintaining accurate information in the county's mass appraisal system, analyzing real estate sales, applying accurate sales data to the valuation process, responding to taxpayers concerns about property valuation and classification, resolving informal appeals through interactions with the property owner, real estate agents, or appraisers, resolving formal appeals through interactions with property owners, attorneys and fee appraisers, potentially testifying at local boards of review, county boards of review, and tax court proceedings.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • Performs annual physical field inspections of 20% of parcels (property and buildings) within an assigned area of the county according to assessment cycle and annual inspections plans and timelines; inspects properties as needed related to permit review or valuation appeals.   

  • Compiles and analyzes market data to allow reliable estimates of property values; determines valuation and classification of properties per MN Tax Law; determines and utilizes the most appropriate approach to value based on the specific property.   

  • Appraises value of property, including income-producing property, and estimates property taxes as necessary; inspects new construction, partial construction, alterations/additions, parcel modifications, and as requested due to valuation issues.   

  • Responds to complex and/or difficult questions or concerns from taxpayers regarding the assessment process, property values, classification, and taxes.   

  • Reviews the terms and conditions of sales to ensure compliance with state guidelines.   

  • Maintains various computerized property records systems, including CAMA (Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal); performs data entry and database management related to appraisal and assessing activities.   

  • Interacts with elected officials, residents, Boards, Councils, legal representatives, etc. in addressing formal and informal appeals of appraisal/assessment results; testifies on behalf of the county using professional, technical expertise, and compiles reports and data to support county position; activity may include testifying in court.   

  • Provides direction and guidance to residents, staff, and outside professionals as needed regarding assessment and appraisal activity; responds to property owners concerns and calls in a timely and professional manner.   

  • Reads and understand blueprints and constructions specifications as a regular part of work tasks.   

  • Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time.  

  • Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree in Real Estate or a related field

OR Three (3) years of progressively responsible assessment experience and a Certified MN Assessor License;

OR Three (3) years of progressively responsible appraisal experience and a residential appraisal license through the MN Department of Commerce.  

One must possess a MN CMA license or be able to obtain it within 1 year of hire. Coursework through the MN Dept. of Revenue, the MAAO, or the IAAO is highly desirable.

The incumbent shall possess a valid driver's license and provide a reliable means of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities.

As a condition of continued employment, people must obtain licensure as an Accredited Minnesota Assessor (AMA) within five years of having become licensed as a CMA, or the MDOR approved waiver.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under general supervision of the Deputy County Assessor. Work is performed according to state guidelines and is reviewed through conferences, written reports, and periodic evaluations of work for accuracy and adherence to policies. Throughout the assessment cycle, Appraisers must exercise professional judgment as property characteristics vary greatly by parcel.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES
Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge – Knowledge of state and local guidelines for property appraisal and tax computation.

Knowledge of construction concepts and terminology.

Knowledge of techniques for effective customer service.

Knowledge of tax litigation concepts.

Abilities – Ability to read and interpret legal documents and descriptions.

Ability to analyze a multitude of information and draw relevant and accurate conclusion from the data.

Ability to accurately and consistently apply valuation methods to appraise property values in an unbiased manner.

Ability to calculate property taxes using math, real estate, building technology, and mass appraisal techniques and methods.

Ability to be self-directed, function independently, and prioritize work.

Ability to deliver effective, quality customer service.

Ability to maintain professional demeanor in arenas of conflict and disagreement.

Ability to drive a car in a manner consistent with the safe driving policy.

Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.

Ability to use MS Office software, GIS, digital cameras, calculators, and related equipment for the performance of essential duties.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires field work, typically in a residential or construction oriented setting; and inside work, typically in an office setting. One may be exposed to construction site hazards such as falling debris, moving equipment, chemical/dust exposure, treacherous surfaces, uneven terrain, animals, inclement and adverse weather conditions, etc. when traversing parcel sites. One will encounter upset, angry, and/or hostile people who disagree with the assessment of their property.

Physical activities include light to medium work: Sitting, talking, hearing, seeing, driving, standing, walking, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crawling, pushing, pulling, feeling, reaching, lifting, grasping, twisting above the waist, bending at waist, repetitive hand and arm motion, and fine finger manipulation in the use of a computer. Incumbent may be required to climb ladders, enter crawl spaces, exert force to maneuver items, traverse uneven/difficult terrain and surfaces, and lift and/or navigate up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.