Licensed, Certified Residential and Certified General Appraisers

Short answer: Choose an appraiser by credential scope, property type, intended use and assignment experience—not by unsupported “best” claims.

What do Washington credential categories mean?

Washington recognizes licensed, certified residential and certified general real estate appraiser credentials with different qualification and practice parameters. Verify the individual’s current status rather than relying only on company marketing or a generic “certified” label.

When is certified residential scope relevant?

A certified residential appraiser is credentialed for residential real-property work within applicable standards and assignment competency. Property complexity, intended use and report requirements still matter. The credential does not guarantee acceptance or a particular conclusion.

When might certified general competency be needed?

Commercial, industrial and other nonresidential assignments often require a provider with suitable general-appraiser competency. Alpha Appraisal’s website scope is residential. A mixed-use or unusual property should be described before engagement so fit can be evaluated honestly.

Does license level replace assignment experience?

No. Ask whether the appraiser is competent for the property type, market area and intended use. Divorce, estate, retrospective, assessment and appraisal-review assignments can require different experience even when the underlying property is residential.

Is desktop automatically less accurate than an inspection?

No simple ranking applies. The accepted scope should be sufficient for credible results and must address available property information, intended use and limitations. A desktop assignment and an inspection-based assignment may rely on different evidence; neither label guarantees accuracy.

How should you choose and request a quote?

Verify credentials through Washington DOL or the national registry. Send the address, property type, purpose, intended users, effective date and deadline. Mention complex rights, multiple parcels, historical evidence and any existing report so competency and scope can be assessed.

Call 425-753-1971 or email dustin.labrasseur@gmail.com.

Revised October 8, 2026.