Want to know the one thing that’s completely transformed and grown my appraisal business in ways I never expected?
It’s not what most appraisers think, and it’s definitely not what they’re teaching in continuing education classes.
I was sitting in our monthly coffee chat with local appraisers recently (we’ve been showing up for these casual meetings since November 2024), and it hit me how much the little things we do over and over will impact our business.
The appraisal industry can feel isolating sometimes. We’re often working alone, dealing with deadlines, and navigating a challenging regulatory environment.
But what I’ve discovered is that the small, consistent actions we take to build relationships and serve others will transform our entire business.
(And, make us better real estate appraisers)
This post is all about how the right kind of consistency can build trust, grow your business, and make your appraisal business more successful (and meaningful) than you ever imagined.
Why Appraiser Connections Matter More Than You Think
Those monthly coffee chats with local appraisers started small – just a few of us sharing war stories over coffee.
But the consistency of showing up, even when I didn’t feel like it, even when my schedule was packed, even when only two people showed up, created something valuable that none of us could have built alone.
Here’s what I learned:
The magic isn’t in any single meeting.
The magic is in the accumulation of those meetings over time.
What began as casual conversations has evolved into:
- A trusted referral network
- Collaborative problem-solving on challenging appraisals
- Shared resources and market insights
- Genuine friendships that make work more enjoyable
The Power of Showing Up for Your Peers
Here’s another example.
Let me tell you about our weekly Zoom calls within the Zen Appraiser Community where we just… show up.
Every week.
Sometimes it’s four of us, sometimes it’s nine.
Doesn’t matter – we’re there.
When I started these calls, I honestly wasn’t sure anyone would come consistently.
But something magical happened when we committed to gathering regularly.
What actually happens to your business when you show up consistently:
Real relationships form.
These aren’t formal training sessions or stuffy professional meetings.
We have real conversations between real people who happen to be real estate appraisers.
Support systems develop naturally.
When someone faces a difficult appraisal challenge, they know they have colleagues to turn to.
If there is a business decision to be made, we bounce ideas off each other.
When new regulations come out, we discuss them together.
Your network becomes your safety net.
You don’t feel alone in solving problems in your appraisal business.
You have a sounding board for new ideas and people who genuinely care about your success.
And you know what’s happened?
We’ve built this incredible network of appraisers who actually help each other.
Real relationships.
And real support when things get tough.
The Client Follow-Up That Changes Everything
Now, let’s talk about something that might seem obvious but is often overlooked:
I always, ALWAYS follow up with clients when I say I will.
Not because I have to, but because I said I would.
Here’s what happens to your business when you’re consistent with client communication:
Clients actually relax.
They stop worrying about what’s happening with their appraisal.
They trust the process because they know you’ve got them covered.
The appraisal becomes one less source of stress in their transaction instead of a mystery they’re anxious about.
Think about it from their perspective.
For most people, their home is their most valuable asset.
The appraisal process can feel mysterious and stressful.
When you consistently follow up – whether it’s a quick text to confirm an appointment, a call to explain a delay, or an email to let them know their report is complete – You’re providing peace of mind.
Beyond the Appraisal Report: What Clients Really Remember
And those 5-star reviews we keep getting?
They’re not really about the appraisal reports (though those are solid too 😊).
But, those reviews are about all the other stuff.
The calls returned, the questions answered, the “hey, just checking in” messages.
I used to think that delivering a high-quality appraisal report was enough.
And don’t get me wrong – an excellent appraisal report is absolutely essential.
But what I’ve learned is that clients remember how you made them feel long after they’ve forgotten the details of their appraisal report.
Turns out, when people feel heard and cared for, they remember that long after the paperwork is done. They remember:
- The appraiser who took time to explain the process
- The professional who called them back promptly
- Feeling confident and informed rather than confused and anxious
The Unglamorous Truth About Business Growth
Here’s the thing… It’s not the big flashy moment that makes for great social media posts or impressive realtor presentations.
It’s showing up when you don’t feel like it.
It’s doing what you said you’d do, even when it’s inconvenient.
It’s:
- Hosting that monthly coffee chat even when you’re swamped with appraisals
- Joining that weekly Zoom call even when you had zero sleep last night
- Making that follow-up call even when you’re tired and ready to call it a day
The small actions, repeated consistently over time, create the biggest impact on your appraisal business.
The Compound Effect You Can’t Ignore
But man, does it add up.
Trust builds.
Relationships deepen.
Work becomes more meaningful.
And honestly?
Our business has grown and become more profitable than I ever imagined.
I know some appraisers think I’m just about feel-good philosophy.
But, what they don’t realize is that my positive outlook and genuine caring for others have a real, measurable impact.
The business results:
- Referrals from our professional network have increased significantly
- Client satisfaction scores have improved dramatically
- Our reputation in the local market has strengthened
- Our bottom line has benefited substantially
The personal rewards:
- Work has become more fulfilling
- Professional relationships have become genuine friendships
- Clients have become advocates who enthusiastically refer us to others
- The isolation that many appraisers feel has been replaced with community
What Consistency Looks Like in Practice
So what does this actually look like day-to-day?
Here are some practical examples:
Weekly commitments:
- Show up to professional networking calls
- Follow up with all clients within 24 hours of key milestones
- Reach out to one colleague just to check in
Monthly commitments:
- Host or attend local appraiser gatherings
- Share helpful information with your professional network
- Review and improve your client communication processes
Daily commitments:
- Return calls promptly
- Keep promises you make to clients
- Look for ways to serve others in your professional community
The specific actions matter less than the commitment to consistency.
What matters is choosing something meaningful and then showing up for it, again and again, even when it’s not convenient or glamorous.
Making It Work for Your Business
Maybe you’re thinking, “This sounds great, Carole, but I barely have time to complete my appraisals, let alone organize coffee chats and show up for weekly calls.”
I get it. We’re all busy. But here’s what I’ve learned:
The consistency that changes everything doesn’t require huge time commitments. It requires intentional, regular actions.
OR, if your not busy, and your business is struggling…
It’s time to start showing up.
Start small:
- Commit to one follow-up call per week to a past client
- Join one professional networking event per month
- Send one “thinking of you” message to a colleague each week
The key is to pick something you can realistically maintain and then stick with it.
Consistency beats intensity every time.
Here’s What to Do Next
Ready to transform your appraisal business?
Start by choosing one small action you can commit to doing regularly.
Whether it’s improving your client follow-up process, connecting with local appraisers, or joining a professional community, the important thing is to start.
Remember, this is not about perfection.
It’s about persistence.
It’s about showing up, serving others, and building relationships one small action at a time.
This post is all about how the right kind of consistency can build trust, grow your business, and make your appraisal business more successful (and meaningful) than you ever imagined.
