The Appraisal Institute is a global membership association of professional real estate appraisers, with nearly 23,000 members and 91 chapters throughout the world. Organized in 1932, its mission is to support and advance its members as the choice for real estate solutions and uphold professional credentials, standards of professional practice and ethics consistent with the public good. The Appraisal Institute advocates equal opportunity and nondiscrimination in the appraisal profession and conducts its activities in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Members of the Appraisal Institute benefit from an array of professional education and advocacy programs, and may hold the prestigious MAI, SRPA and SRA designations.

Founded in 1952, the Austin Chapter serves real estate appraisers and professionals in allied fields in the Greater Austin area.

The Appraisal Institute is the acknowledged worldwide leader in residential and commercial real estate appraisal education. Its extensive curriculum of courses and specialty seminars provides a well-rounded education in valuation methodology for both the novice and seasoned practitioner. As the world’s largest publisher of real estate appraisal literature, the Appraisal Institute offers a wide range of books and other materials on subjects ranging from basic valuation theory and techniques to advanced applications. It also publishes two quarterly periodicals, The Appraisal Journal and Valuation magazine.

Members have access to a variety of benefits, including insurance programs, data resources and tools, and related business materials. The Appraisal Institute also houses the Lum Library, which provides support for the research needs of members as well as the profession at large. The Appraisal Institute is active in advocacy efforts on behalf of its members and the industry at large. Primarily through its External Affairs office in Washington, D.C., the organization communicates regularly with legislators and regulators to encourage the adoption of appraisal policies that best serve the public interest.