Where we were
The Leadership Development & Advisory Council (LDAC) remains an essential gathering that fosters creativity, encourages critical thinking, and cultivates the development of future leaders in the real estate appraisal profession.
This year LDAC brought together a gathering of 125 esteemed appraisers in the heart of Washington, D.C. from May 17-19. This impactful and thought-provoking conference provided a platform for collaborative discussions on pressing topics, including the modernization of appraisal and addressing the appraisal gap. LDAC, a long-standing tradition since 1969, has been a source of leadership and inspiration for the Appraisal Institute.
During the conference, participants engaged in lively discussion groups, exploring innovative solutions and ways to improve the appraisal process. Valcre’s CEO, Lucas Rotter, an LDAC veteran, was honored to be invited as an alternate discussion leader, facilitating insightful conversations around the theme of “How do we improve?” The outcomes of these discussions will be considered for potential implementation.
What we learned
A recurring sentiment among attendees was the importance of upskilling and diversifying one’s knowledge as an appraiser, embracing new technology and tools like ChatGPT to enhance efficiency. LDAC provided a unique opportunity for the appraisal community to converge annually in Washington, D.C., fostering connections, strengthening relationships, and collectively elevating the industry.
In addition to the formal conference sessions, Valcre proudly sponsored an engaging after-hours event, where attendees and organizers gathered in a relaxed environment to share experiences, deepen relationships, and exchange insights about the intricacies of the appraisal profession. This casual gathering provided a valuable space for appraisers to further connect, network, and exchange insights.
As the event concluded, it was clear that LDAC remains the most coveted and highly regarded event in the appraisal industry. The gathering of the industry’s finest appraisers, combined with educational sessions in the morning and lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill in the afternoon, showcased a holistic approach to addressing challenges and advocating for the profession. Lucas Rotter actively engaged in raw conversations about the urgent issues confronting the appraisal field.
Conclusions and outcomes
In essence, LDAC highlighted the importance of appraisers embracing efficiency, innovation, and continuous learning to stay at the forefront of the industry. It reinforced the notion that appraisers must continually seek ways to enhance their methods, speed up processes, and deliver high-quality results in an evolving landscape. The event served as a beacon of inspiration, leaving attendees motivated and equipped with new insights to excel in their roles as appraisers.
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Get involved
The Leadership Development & Advisory Council (LDAC) is a group of dedicated appraisers who come together once a year in Washington, D.C., to formulate solutions to problems and challenges faced by the appraisal profession. LDAC strives to foster creative thought from talented individuals involved in the real estate appraisal profession while developing future leaders of the Appraisal Institute. LDAC has served as a source of leadership and as an inspiration for new programming ideas for the Appraisal Institute since 1969. Through a series of roundtable discussions, LDAC provides a forum where ideas and opinions on targeted topics of concern to the appraisal profession are exchanged.
Why attend LDAC?
Ask any LDAC alumni, and they will undeniably tell you that LDAC has been one of their most positive experiences with the Appraisal Institute! Here’s why:
- LDAC is your springboard for future leadership within the Appraisal Institute.
- You get to make a difference in the Appraisal Institute by helping to formulate solutions to obstacles and challenges faced by the appraisal industry.
- You have an opportunity to make your voice heard by the nation’s lawmakers.
- Up to 45 Points of Appraisal Institute continuing education (CE) credit may be earned for participating in LDAC. Please refer to Regulation No. 10: Continuing Education for more details. (CE will be granted at the end of the conference, after full participation is documented.)
- If you know of someone who has demonstrated outstanding ability in appraising or a related profession, who is a potential leader in your chapter, who is articulate, and who could make a strong contribution to discussions on appraisal topics, please encourage that individual to consider LDAC participation.
2023 LDAC Leadership
- Eric Schneider, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, Chair
- Kelly Yeatts, MAI, Vice Chair
- Jorge Barreiro, SRA, AI-RRS, Discussion Leader
- Hugh “Bo” Bass, Jr., MAI, Discussion Leader
- Smedmore Montgomery Bernard, Jr., MAI, Discussion Leader
- Molly Skipper Steele, Discussion Leader
- Kelly Hyde, MAI, Alternate Discussion Leader
- Lucas Rotter, Alternate Discussion Leader
