RSDS Appraisal Diversity is proud to announce its commitment to Project REACh Appraiser Diversity Initiative, an initiative driven by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s in collaboration with banks, community organizations, and civil rights groups. The objective of this initiative is to increase diversity within the appraisal profession and combat appraisal bias in communities of color.

The collaboration was launched in July 2020 with the goal of promoting financial inclusion and breaking down barriers that hinder equal participation in the economy. Stakeholders from banking, business, technology, and national civil rights organizations have united under the Project REACh Affordable Homeownership Workstream to develop a pledge that fosters diversity and inclusivity within the appraisal industry.

As signatories to the “Pledge to Enhance Appraiser Diversity,” RSDS Appraisal Diversity is dedicated to promoting diversity within the appraisal profession to ensure equity and fairness in the home appraisal process. By focusing on specific actions to address concerns in home valuations, we aim to enable consumers to benefit from the financial returns of homeownership fully.

Our commitment as signatories to this pledge includes:

1. Financial Support: Investing in initiatives that attract new entrants to the real estate appraisal profession through scholarships, mentoring activities, and diverse supplier programs.

2. Reducing Barriers to Entry: We will challenge limitations placed on new appraisal professionals to ensure safety, soundness, and support for diversity within the profession. We will partner with State Bankers Associations, State Appraisal Boards, and The Appraisal Foundation to promote diversity within the profession.

3. Partnership within Communities: We will collaborate with organizations that provide entrepreneurship training and education to enhance the skills and experiences of new entrants. We will also offer mentorship opportunities to emphasize the importance of the appraisal profession within the housing market.

RSDS Appraisal Diversity is committed to fostering a more inclusive and diverse appraisal industry that reflects the diversity of our nation. By engaging in open discussions, targeted efforts, and community partnerships, we aim to attract new talent, break down entry barriers, and provide support for aspiring appraisers to achieve professional success.