Employment of appraisers and assessors of real estate is expected to grow 7 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. Demand for appraisal services is strongly tied to the real estate market, which can fluctuate in the short term. Over the long term, employment growth will be driven by economic expansion and population increases—factors that generate demand for real property. However, employment is projected to be held down by productivity increases brought about by the increased use of mobile technologies, which allow workers to appraise and assess more properties. The increased use of automated valuation models to appraise property for mortgages might also shift work from appraisers.
Overall job opportunities are expected to be highly competitive. Employment opportunities should be best in areas with active real estate markets. Although opportunities for established certified appraisers are expected to be available in these areas, the cyclical nature of the real estate market will directly affect the number of jobs for appraisers, especially those who appraise residential properties. In times of recession, fewer people buy or sell real estate, decreasing the demand for appraisers. As a result, job opportunities should be best for appraisers who are able to switch specialties and appraise different types of properties.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition