Commercial Appraiser Trainee

Gustafson & Associates; Bellingham (WA); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical during training

Job summary

Gustafson & Associates, a premier real estate appraisal firm in Whatcom County, seeks a Commercial Appraiser Trainee in Bellingham, WA. You will assist in property descriptions, data analysis, site visits, and broker coordination to support commercial appraisals.

Training starts at $50k/year with medical coverage during the period, transitioning to commission-based compensation within 12 months. The role blends fieldwork with office work and offers growth into state certification.

Qualifications

• Analytical skills required for evaluating properties and markets.
• Strong technical writing for appraisal reports and notes.
• Ability to integrate AI tools to assist valuation workflows.
• Critical thinking to interpret market data and contracts.
• Clear written and verbal communication for brokers and clients.
• Proficient computer skills including Excel and Word for analyses.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license for site visits.

Responsibilities

• Assist in conducting commercial real estate appraisals.
• Describe properties and analyze market data.
• Take photos and visit sites as needed.
• Confirm market information with brokers.
• Analyze comparable sales and leases.

Skills

Analytical skills

Technical writing

Artificial Intelligence integration

Critical thinking

Written and verbal communication

Computer and technology skills

Driver's license

Tools

Excel

Word

Job description

Gustafson & Associates, with over 100 years of combined experience, is the leading real estate appraisal firm in Whatcom County. We pride ourselves on providing top-notch appraisal expertise to our clients by leveraging our deep understanding of the local market.

Role Description

This is a full-time role for a Commercial Appraiser Trainee. The hire will be responsible for assisting us in conducting commercial real estate appraisals. This includes property description, analysis, taking photos, visiting sites, confirming market information with brokers, and analyzing comparable sales and leases. The role is located in Bellingham, WA and allows for some work from home, but it is not 100% work from home. Prior work in real estate is not required. There is time in the field, but must time is spent in the office.

Qualifications

• Analytical skills
• Technical writing
• Artificial Intelligence integration
• Critical thinking
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Computer and technology skills (Excel, Word)
• Driver's license

Learning to appraise real estate is a challenging and demanding process that requires a broad skill set. Strong writing, communication, math proficiency, and a dedicated work ethic are essential. Initial pay is $50k/year plus medical during the training period, but transitioning to commission-based compensation within 12 months should be your goal.

This career rewards hard work, successful appraisers are efficient and manage their time well. Earning your state certification takes approximately two years and involves completing a series of required courses. We will work with you to get your Washington State General Certification.

While the path is rigorous, the profession can be highly rewarding, particularly as artificial intelligence and other technology continue to improve efficiency in our field. Commercial real estate is a specialized area that relatively few people understand in depth. We are committed to supporting your growth and helping you develop valuable expertise in both real estate appraisal and the broader commercial real estate industry.