Applying new technologies to the appraisal business

PAR member Melanie McLane is a practicing appraiser, broker and educator near Williamsport. She is one of the featured speakers at the upcoming Triple Play REALTORS® Convention scheduled for Dec. 8-10 in Atlantic City.

There were some who thought computers were a passing fad when it came to converting the MLS system to computers.

With more than 32 years in the real estate/appraisal business, Melanie McLane, a REALTOR® and appraiser, has seen a fair share of changes in the industry.

And while appraisers have been fairly quick to adopt new technology in their businesses, McLane said many of the changes were industry driven.

She’s teaching “Technology and the Appraiser” at Triple Play in Atlantic City on December 10. The course will highlight the practical applications of new technologies available. “This course is a lot of fun because appraisers will get to think about other technologies, how they apply to their businesses and they’ll see where the industry’s going,” she added.

“It’ll also answer important questions like should you be using the newest equipment to measure a house?” McLane said. “Should appraisers be using social networking like Facebook and LinkedIn?

“New technology is very helpful with appraisals,” she said. “So appraisers need to decide do they embrace new technology or will they be left behind?”

McLane will also be teaching “Crossing State Lines and Keeping it Legal (NJ/PA)” and “AVMs and the Appraiser.”