May a written real-property appraisal certification use wording different from USPAP’s published sample?
Correct Answer
C) Yes, if all required certification elements are addressed accurately
Certification wording need not be a verbatim copy, but every required element must be addressed truthfully and accurately. A revised template cannot omit required statements or describe work and circumstances inaccurately. Each appraiser who signs any part of the report must also sign a certification, and a required form omitting elements calls for the supplemental treatment required by SR 2-3(d).
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option C is correct because SR 2-3(a) states that the wording of a certification does not have to match the published text verbatim, but each of the elements must be addressed. Different wording is acceptable if every required element is covered accurately and truthfully.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Yes, because changing wording permits omitting required elements
Option A, saying changed wording permits omitting required elements, is wrong because each element must still be addressed regardless of wording.
Option B: No, the published wording must be reproduced word for word
Option B, requiring the published wording to be reproduced word for word, is wrong because USPAP states the wording does not have to match verbatim.
Option D: Yes, if the client approves dropping the prior-services statement
Option D, allowing the client to approve dropping the prior-services statement, is wrong because a client cannot waive a required certification element.
Words flex, elements stay
Certification wording can flex, but every required element stays.
How to use: Use words-flex-elements-stay to judge any answer about rewording a certification.
Exam Tip
Choose the answer that allows rewording while keeping all required elements accurate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Believing the certification must be copied word for word
- -Letting the client waive a required certification element
- -Using new wording as a way to drop required statements
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests whether certification wording must match USPAP's sample exactly. USPAP allows different wording as long as each required element is addressed. Changing wording is not a route to dropping elements.
Background Knowledge
Standards Rule 2-3 sets the elements a real property certification must address, such as impartiality, prior services and inspection disclosures. The appraiser may adapt the wording, and each appraiser who signs any part of the report must also sign a certification. When a required form omits elements, a supplemental certification fills the gap.
Real-World Application
An appraisal firm rewrites its certification in plainer English for its reports. The compliance reviewer checks that each SR 2-3 element, including the prior-services statement, is still addressed accurately.
More USPAP Questions
Under USPAP, what are assignment results?
The certification required by Standards Rule 2-3 must be signed by:
Under 2024 USPAP, which statement correctly combines the requirements for an oral real property appraisal report and its workfile?
An appraiser accepts an assignment involving a property type the appraiser has valued once before, years ago. Competency requires:
A Certified General appraiser is asked to value a specialized industrial property for the first time. The appraiser knows a competency gap exists before agreeing to the assignment. What is required if the appraiser proceeds?
Under 2024 USPAP Standard 1, which listed assignment element must be identified in developing a real property appraisal?
An appraiser provided an appraisal of the same property for another client 18 months ago. No confidentiality obligation prevents disclosing the fact of that service. Before agreeing to a new assignment, the appraiser must:
According to USPAP, what is the primary purpose of the Ethics Rule?
An appraiser is asked to determine 'fair market value' for an assignment. According to USPAP, the appraiser should:
Which list gives the sections of the 2024 USPAP Ethics Rule?
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