Appraiser I

Gathers and analyzes descriptive data to determine the classification and value of real property for assessment purposes. Under close supervision, appraises improved and unimproved real property within El Paso County in accordance with State regulations, procedures, and guidelines. Administers fair and equitable assessment on improved and unimproved real property for assessment purposes. This is an entry-level position, which includes both training and qualification for high levels of classification an licensure.

• Completes field work and input for real estate by using maps, legal descriptions, and building permits to verify site locations and addresses.
• Inspects properties for construction, condition, and functional design and takes property measurements. Computes final estimation of property value by considering factors, such as depreciation, replacement, location, quality, design, cost, value comparison of similar property and income potential.
• Obtains information on real estate property by interviewing persons familiar with property and immediate surroundings, such as contractors, homeowners, and realtors.
• Creates or revises property sketches. Modifies model sketches; creates new model sketches for real estate properties. Ensures accurate square footage calculations and flow into CAMA system.
• Manages the property inventory.
• Ensures all new construction is placed into the system by utilizing permits granted by the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department.
• Reviews construction blueprints and updates Assessor's records to reflect changes in properties.
• Reviews all neighborhood and economic area factors with the Residential Appraisal Manager and senior Appraisal staff.
• Considers location and trends or impending changes that could influence future value of property.
• Reviews sales documents to determine the degree of relationship between property and sales price.
• Prepares written reports, including a “footprint” sketch, exterior photograph, and list of physical characteristics of improvements; submits report to corroborate value.
• Prepares and presents evidence at hearings as to the validity of the appraisal of properties.
• Researches and processes requests for abatements filed by the general public.
• Answers appeals, completes property specific appraisals, and presents opinions at various levels of litigation.
• Maps values and analyzes sales using geographic information system (GIS) to facilitate computing a Final Value for Ad Valorem taxation.
• Works with customers to assess needs, provide assistance, resolve problems, and is committed to providing quality service.
• Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of the Colorado Revised Statutes as they pertain to Real Estate and Real Estate appraisal.
• Ability to perform math calculations and concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry.
• Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
• Ability to analyze data and statistics, prepare statistical reports, and deliver information in an accurate and comprehensible manner.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw conclusions. Determines accuracy and relevance of information; uses sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives, and to make recommendations.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to do detailed work with significant accuracy. Ability to efficiently plan, schedule, and organization.
• Must be able to communicate effectively with attorneys, appraisers, and other individuals relative to property values and the appraisal process as well as County employees and the public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, organizations, and the public.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality as required by law.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

Required Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• One year of real estate, construction, administrative, or related experience.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Associate's degree or higher in business administration, accounting, or related field.
• One year of experience in real estate appraisal preferred.

Licenses/Certificates:

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Ad Valorum License required within one year of employment.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

• Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen.

Duties are performed in an office environment and in the field, including undeveloped vacant land, construction sites, and partially to fully completed structures. Position requires travel to construction sites, negotiating rough terrain, and climbing stairs during on-site inspections in the field. Field work requires exposure to weather elements, hazards, and other adverse physical and environmental conditions. Some evening hours may be required