Property Appraiser II (Fin Ad)

The City of Fargo; Fargo (ND); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Fargo seeks a skilled Property Appraiser to evaluate residential and commercial properties for tax purposes. The role involves independent work, data analysis, and effective communication with the public. Candidates should have relevant experience and an Associate's degree in a related field. This position offers opportunities for professional growth and development in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant appraisal experience or equivalent education.
• Must obtain a North Dakota Class I City Assessor certification within one year.

Responsibilities

• Determines property values for real estate tax purposes.
• Compiles and analyzes property characteristics.
• Communicates with property owners and defends property values.

Skills

Customer Service

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Associate's degree in architectural drafting

engineering technology

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS

Job description

Under general supervision, performs various technical duties in the appraisal of new and existing real property within the city to determine appropriate property values for real estate tax purposes. Work is performed independently and requires incumbents to draw upon training and experience in choosing the most appropriate method of valuing property from the available alternatives, which meet departmental standards. Focus is primarily on all, including the most complex, residential properties and non-complex commercial properties.

Scope of Responsibility

Responsible for the quality and accuracy of work product. Performs professional, technical work where the financial impact is minimal to moderate. Provides work direction to others as assigned.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Determines appropriate property value for real estate tax purposes on all, including the most complex, residential properties and non-complex commercial properties.
2. Compiles and analyzes physical property characteristics, including materials and dimensions, subjective characteristics including quality and condition, and identifiable internal and external factors to produce initial data sets.
3. Periodically enters properties to take measurements, observe condition, finishes, and upgrades.
4. Verifies property information, discusses assessment with property owners, creates sketches and takes detailed field notes, and takes photographs.
5. Collects data for non-complex commercial properties to assist Appraiser III or Deputy Assessor.
6. Interprets the compiled data sets and selects appropriate information to produce accurate and defendable property values on residential and non-complex commercial properties.
7. Sets up models and cost tables, develops market comparisons.
8. Compiles and analyzes market sales data for ratio statistics on residential property for application and determination of appraisal methods to apply to properties.
9. Values land by recording and tracking sales, performing calculations and determining value to assign.
10. Determines value changes as it relates to housing rehabilitation contracts.
11. Inspects and analyzes physical characteristics on incomplete, damaged, substandard or environmentally hazardous properties; interprets and applies adjustments to value.
12. Researches industry trends and attends ongoing formal training in real estate and appraisal to stay knowledgeable of external market factors, gain new skills, and maintain licensing requirements.
13. Investigates the validity of complaints of inequity or fairness of real estate values; defends property values during tax appeals.
14. Communicates courteously and professionally, maintaining effective relationships with colleagues and the public.
15. Interacts with the public, banking and finance community, realtors, appraisal firms, property owners, etc., providing information or referrals as needed.
16. Assists or advises colleagues on appraisal-related matters and collaborates to ensure consistency.
17. Utilizes manual, GIS, and automated mapping techniques for collecting and preparing mapping and survey documents.
18. Provides training and guidance for Appraiser I positions and may supervise part-time Technicians and Interns, serving as a team leader if applicable.
19. Collaborates with supervisors on performance reviews and team coordination.
20. Ensures safety protocols are followed, uses protective equipment, and reports unsafe conditions.
21. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications include an Associate's degree in architectural drafting, engineering technology, or related fields, with five or more years of relevant appraisal experience, or equivalent education and experience. Must obtain a North Dakota Class I City Assessor certification within one year and possess a valid driver’s license.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities include appraisal principles, real estate terminology, relevant laws, building costs, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and mapping techniques. Strong customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills are essential. Work involves indoor and outdoor environments, requiring physical activity and attention to safety.