Portfolio Requirements Update for Appraisers 

The CCIM Institute, in collaboration with the Appraisal Institute, has made important updates to Portfolio of Qualifying Experience requirements for commercial real estate appraisers pursuing the CCIM Designation. These changes are designed to make the path less restrictive and more accessible for qualified appraisers, while maintaining the rigor, credibility, and integrity of the Designation. 

The most notable update is that land now qualifies under the appraiser criteria. Additionally, the substantiation process has been streamlined, so candidates now submit one proof of value rather than three (3) proofs. 

What’s Changing for Appraisers? 
Effective immediately, qualifying experience criteria for commercial real estate appraisers now includes land, as long as it meets commercial eligibility standards. This expansion creates new opportunities for appraisers whose experience includes land valuation, while continuing to exclude residential property or land of four (4) or fewer units. 

This enhancement is intended to reflect the real-world scope of commercial appraisal work and support qualified candidates who are building toward the CCIM Designation. 

Who and What Qualifies?  
Candidates who are full-time commercial appraisers and are directly involved in appraisals of qualified commercial real estate may qualify through the Portfolio of Qualifying Experience. 

Portfolio submissions must reflect performance as a third-party fee appraiser relating to commercial property, including land, where: 

• A full appraisal report was prepared 
• Specific compensation was received 
• Activities were conducted at arm’s length 
• There is no conflict of interest 

Volume Requirements 
Candidates must document qualifying activities through one of the following options: 

1. Three (3) or more qualifying activities totaling $30 million or more; OR 
2. Exactly ten (10) qualifying activities totaling $10 million or more; OR 
3. Twenty (20) qualifying activities, with no total dollar volume required 

Qualifying volume is determined by the “as-is” appraised value of the property. 

Substantiation Requirements 
Appraiser candidates must submit a Traditional Portfolio, including: 

• A copy of the full and complete appraisal report 
• Proof of delivery of the report to the client 
• Identification of the client and an explanation of the appraisal’s purpose 
• A copy of payment received for appraisal services 

 
A More Flexible Path Forward 
The CCIM Institute values its ongoing relationship with the Appraisal Institute and appreciates the continued work to ensure the Portfolio process remains both credible and accessible. These updates are intended to support appraisers pursuing excellence while ensuring the CCIM Designation continues to represent the highest standards in commercial real estate. 

For comprehensive requirements and submission guidelines, candidates should refer to the CCIM Institute Portfolio Handbook (complete details available on page 17.). 

Candidates are also encouraged to contact The CCIM Institute with any questions or need for clarification.  

Solutions Center:  
Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CT.  
Phone: +1 (312) 321-4460 or (800) 621-7027 
Email: help@ccim.com