Our last report on unification efforts by the American Society of Appraisers (ASA), the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA), and the Appraisal Institute (AI) indicated that while the ASA and ASFMRA agreed on an interim plan, the AI rejected the proposal “as presented” at the recent (November 6th) New Orleans meeting of the respective boards.  (See BVWire #62-2.)  Appraisers were understandably confused when, two days after the meeting, the AI sent an e-update to members saying that its board had reviewed the plan and would “continue to work on unification with the teams from ASA and ASFMRA.”

Last week the AI clarified its position.  In a letter to members, President Terry Dunkin, MAI, SRA confirmed that while the AI board did not approve the plan—finding some elements acceptable but others not—it adopted a motion to continue to work on the issues.  Since departing New Orleans, Dunkin has “already reached out” to ASA and ASFMRA leaders to confirm that the AI is still committed to unification efforts.  Notably, “recent discussions between the AI and the National Association of Realtors regarding possible affiliation played no role in our deliberations or decision on unification with ASA and ASFMRA,” he says, but is an independent issue. 

Going forward, the AI Executive Committee will meet with the unification team to discuss proposals and “formulate alternatives that we think are acceptable to all three organizations.”   Comments ASA BV Committee Chair Terry Allen, “the door is left open” to unification talks.