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Appraiser Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Carmax

Vehicle Condition Assessor

Des Moines, IA

$17 - $27.20/hr

Complete vehicle secures and confirmations, verifying appraisal details and resolving discrepancies. * Assist with inventory management, customer transfers, and lot merchandising as needed.

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All JobsAppraiser JobsAppraiser Jobs in Iowa

Appraiser information

See Iowa salary details

$40.9K

$68.6K

$93.5K

How much do appraiser jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for appraiser in Iowa is $68,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $86,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an appraiser do?

An appraiser is a professional who estimates the value of various assets, most commonly real estate, but also personal property, antiques, or art. They conduct thorough inspections, analyze market data, and prepare detailed reports to determine an item's fair market value. Appraisers often work for banks, insurance companies, government agencies, or as independent consultants. Their evaluations are essential for transactions such as sales, mortgages, taxation, and insurance claims.

Is being an appraiser a good side hustle?

Appraisers can work part-time or freelance, making it a flexible side hustle option. However, they need relevant certifications, knowledge of valuation methods, and access to appraisal tools, which may require initial investment and training. The income potential depends on the volume of assignments and local demand.

What is the difference between Appraiser vs Assessor?

AspectAppraiserAssessor
CredentialsReal estate license, appraisal certification (e.g., SRA, MAI)Property tax certification, assessor license
Work EnvironmentReal estate firms, appraisal companies, banksLocal government offices, tax assessment departments
Industry UsageReal estate valuation, mortgage lendingProperty tax assessment, public records

While both Appraisers and Assessors evaluate property values, Appraisers focus on providing independent property valuations for sales, refinancing, or legal purposes. Assessors, on the other hand, determine property values for tax assessment purposes, often working for local governments. Their roles overlap in property valuation but differ in purpose, credentials, and work environment.

Are appraisers in demand right now?

The demand for appraisers remains steady due to ongoing real estate transactions and property assessments. Factors such as the housing market and regulatory changes can influence job opportunities, and certification is typically required to work independently. Overall, employment prospects are favorable for qualified appraisers.

Is becoming an appraiser difficult?

Becoming an appraiser requires completing specific education, gaining work experience, and obtaining state licensing or certification, which can take several months to years depending on the jurisdiction. The job involves attention to detail, knowledge of valuation methods, and often requires passing exams and ongoing education to maintain credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an appraiser, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Appraiser, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of real estate principles, typically supported by state licensure and completion of appraisal education courses. Familiarity with appraisal software, MLS databases, and relevant valuation tools is usually required. Excellent communication, integrity, and time management skills help Appraisers build client trust and deliver thorough, timely reports. These competencies ensure accurate property valuations, regulatory compliance, and professional credibility in a competitive market.

What is an appraiser?

An appraiser works in the real estate industry assessing the value of properties. As an appraiser, your responsibilities and duties include evaluating and documenting the condition of a property, researching the recent sale prices of similar properties in the area, and generating a report that contains the estimated value of the property, along with supporting data. Your clients are individuals or realtors who are preparing to buy or sell a property, or mortgage lenders who are assessing whether the loan requested is congruent with the property value.

How do appraisers typically collaborate with clients and other professionals during the valuation process?

Appraisers regularly interact with clients, real estate agents, lenders, and sometimes attorneys to gather necessary property information and clarify details. While much of the valuation work is performed independently, effective communication is key throughout the process to ensure accuracy and address any questions. Appraisers may also coordinate onsite inspections and discuss findings with stakeholders, making strong interpersonal and organizational skills essential in this role.
More about Appraiser jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Appraiser jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Appraiser jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Appraiser jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Appraiser job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Appraiser jobs in IA? For Appraiser jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Appraiser jobs near you
Infographic showing various Appraiser job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,607 per year, or $33 per hour.

Specialty & Ag Equipment Estimator/Appraiser

FBL Financial Group

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Specialty & Ag Equipment Estimator/Appraiser
Bring Your Estimating Expertise Where It Matters Most
Are you an experienced estimator with expertise in agricultural equipment, heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, or specialty equipment? Whether your background comes from a dealership, repair facility, manufacturer, independent appraisal firm, fleet operation, or insurance environment, this is an opportunity to put your technical estimating knowledge to work in a highly specialized role.
At Farm Bureau Financial Services, we're looking for a skilled professional who understands equipment construction, repair methods, parts replacement, and damage evaluation. If you're passionate about accurate estimating and helping others make informed decisions, we'd love to hear from you.
Who We Are
At Farm Bureau Financial Services, our client/members trust us to help protect their families, homes, vehicles, and livelihoods. For more than 80 years, we've built a reputation grounded in integrity, teamwork, passion, service, leadership, and accountability. We're equally committed to creating an environment where employees can learn, grow, and thrive.
What You'll Do
As an Ag & Specialty Equipment Appraiser, you'll serve as a technical estimating expert responsible for evaluating damage and preparing accurate repair estimates on a wide variety of agricultural and specialty equipment. This position is part of our in-house team located in either West Des Moines, Iowa, or Lincoln, Nebraska.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Independently evaluate damage and prepare detailed repair estimates for agricultural equipment, construction and heavy equipment, heavy trucks, semi tractors, trailers, and specialty equipment
  • Analyze repair methods, labor operations, parts replacement, and repair-versus-replace decisions to ensure accurate and consistent estimates
  • Review estimates for quality, accuracy, consistency, and compliance with company guidelines
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on equipment construction, repairability, damage analysis, and valuation
  • Provide technical guidance and support on complex, high-severity, or unusual equipment losses
  • Collaborate with claim professionals, leadership, vendors, repair facilities, and equipment experts to support accurate claim outcomes
  • Grant appropriate payment authority within designated limits
  • Deliver training and ongoing support to team members on estimating best practices, repair procedures, and damage assessment techniques
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with policyholders, agents, repair facilities, management, regulatory agencies, and the public

Who Succeeds in This Role
Successful candidates often come from:
  • Agricultural equipment dealerships
  • Equipment manufacturers and service centers
  • Heavy equipment and construction equipment dealerships
  • Truck and trailer repair facilities
  • Commercial truck collision centers
  • Fleet maintenance organizations
  • Independent appraisal firms
  • Insurance appraisal and claims organizations

If you have strong equipment estimating experience, we can help you learn the insurance side of the business.
What It Takes to Join Our Team
Required Qualifications
  • Five or more years of hands-on estimating experience involving agricultural equipment, heavy equipment, construction equipment, heavy trucks, semi tractors, trailers, or specialty equipment
  • Demonstrated ability to write accurate repair estimates and evaluate repair-versus-replace decisions
  • Strong understanding of equipment construction, repair methods, damage analysis, labor operations, and parts sourcing
  • Proven problem-solving, communication, customer service, and collaboration skills
  • Ability to independently manage complex or high-value estimating assignments
  • Willingness to travel as needed and work in varying weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications
  • Insurance claims, appraisal, adjusting, or damage evaluation experience
  • Experience using industry estimating platforms and appraisal tools
  • Senior Appraiser or similar advanced technical appraisal experience
  • Experience providing training, mentoring, or technical leadership
  • Knowledge of agricultural and heavy equipment manufacturers, repair practices, and equipment valuation methods

What We Offer You
When you join Farm Bureau Financial Services, you receive more than a paycheck. We offer:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Career development and continuing education opportunities
  • Enhanced 401(k) with company match
  • Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Paid time off, including holidays and volunteer time
  • A supportive, collaborative, and team-oriented culture
  • Onsite wellness facilities, fitness programs, daycare, and cafeteria services
  • Hybrid work arrangements for many positions

Why Farm Bureau Financial Services?
At Farm Bureau Financial Services, we value expertise and invest in our people. You'll join a team where your technical knowledge is respected, your development is supported, and your work makes a meaningful impact on our customers every day.
Farm Bureau Financial Services. Where the grass really is greener.
Apply today and bring your estimating expertise to a team that values accuracy, integrity, and professional growth.
Work Authorization / Sponsorship
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Farm Bureau Financial Services does not provide visa sponsorship now or in the future, nor assume or extend sponsorship for employment authorization (including OPT).

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