Appraisal Basics for Land Trusts

When a land trust purchases land in fee or a conservation easement, an appraisal will almost always be required to fund or substantiate the value of the acquisition, so it is important for land trust personnel to understand the appraisal process. Drawing from over 20 years of experience valuing conservation lands, appraiser Victoria Adams (Terra Valuations) will discuss several of the common and more complicated issues that may arise in the appraisal and/or appraisal review and how the land trust can play an effective role in minimizing appraisal time and costs and facilitating a more successful outcome.  

Here’s a look at what we will cover: 

• How to find and contract with an appraiser knowledgeable in valuing conservation land and easements. 

• Timing of the appraisal. 

• Information needed for the appraisal. 

• Different appraisal standards & requirements for different funding sources. 

• Overview of how value is determined. 

• Appraisal reviews. 

• Special considerations for bargain sales. 

Note: This webinar will cover considerations for land and easements land trusts purchase. Appraisals of donated easements or fee simple property are covered in Basics of Real Estate Appraisals for Conservation Easement and Fee Simple Transactions.