Do Real Estate Appraisers Also Work on the Weekends?

The question of whether real estate appraisers work on weekends often arises, particularly from those who rely on their services for transactions. The answer isn’t a straightforward yes or no but rather a nuanced one based on individual circumstances and professional choice.

Flexible Work Hours: Appraisal’s Demands

Real estate appraisers may indeed work on weekends, but this is not a universal practice. The need to work weekends often stems from a combination of two key factors: workload and client scheduling needs. When appraisals are time-sensitive, especially for closing periods, appraisers may have to conduct inspections or finalize reports to meet critical deadlines. This adaptability is part of the profession, and many appraisers embrace it to ensure they meet their clients' urgent needs.

Personal Choice and Professional Policy

The working arrangements for appraisers can be quite varied. Some appraisers, particularly those working as independent contractors, have considerable flexibility to choose when they work. This might mean they work most weekdays, with the option to do some work on weekends if needed. Conversely, some appraisers for a company might be required to adhere to specific schedules imposed by their employer.

One appraiser mentioned being at home often on weekends, perhaps finishing reports early mornings or late nights, while only occasionally doing property inspections on weekends. Property inspections, they noted, are generally avoided on weekends for personal reasons, such as not disrupting family time. This flexibility can be a double-edged sword; it provides the freedom to manage work and life, but it can also lead to long working hours during peak periods.

Another appraiser emphasized the importance of context, drawing an analogy between the perceived obligation to cancel work for a plumbing or appliance delivery versus rescheduling an appraiser for a home inspection. The flexibility in scheduling is often taken for granted but is indeed a crucial aspect of real estate appraisal work.

The Complexity of Professional Independence

For those who handle appraisals as independent fee appraisers, the ability to set their own hours is a significant advantage. This freedom allows them to manage their workload effectively and balance personal life demands. However, this independence also comes with the risk of long working hours during busy periods. Some appraisers choose to work on weekends to ensure they meet their deadlines, while others firmly reject this practice as it conflicts with their personal values.

One appraiser who is an independent fee appraiser noted that weekend work is often done only for extenuating circumstances, such as scheduling property viewings that aren’t available on weekdays or to complete a report due to a client. Another appraiser who used to work for a company mentioned that while some colleagues take weekend work as a necessity, others refuse to do so, leading to varied working patterns in the profession.

The underlying theme is that real estate appraisers have the choice to work on weekends, but the extent to which they do so varies widely. This choice is often influenced by personal preferences, professional policies, and the urgency of the work at hand.

The Conclusion

Real estate appraisers may work on weekends, but the frequency and necessity of this work depend on numerous factors, including workload, personal preferences, and professional policies. The profession's flexibility in scheduling allows appraisers to adapt to meet the demands of clients, but it also means that personal and family life can be disrupted. Understanding these nuances is crucial for both appraisers and their clients who rely on the timely completion of appraisals.