Glossary of Terms

Agent

An agent, in an appraisal context, refers to an individual authorized to act on behalf of another party, typically the property owner or client, in matters related to property valuation. In many cases, this term is used interchangeably with an appraiser or appraisal professional, though it should not be confused with a real estate agent involved in buying or selling property.

Within real estate and valuation processes, an agent may be responsible for inspecting the property, gathering relevant data and developing an unbiased opinion of value. Their role is guided by professional standards and regulatory requirements to ensure objectivity and accuracy.

This distinction matters because each party in a transaction has a specific role. Understanding the agent’s function helps prevent confusion, supports compliance and ensures the valuation process remains independent from sales or brokerage activities.