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Appraiser Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Vehicle Condition Assessor

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$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.

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

The role also involves managing the 3rd party appraisal process, being responsible for executing the engagements with the bank and lending clients, reviewing and analyzing appraisals, and cash flows.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities The writing of virtual damage appraisals from photos, utilizing electronic estimating software Audit collision repair estimates to ensure proper method of repairs ...

Essential Duties & Responsibilities The writing of virtual damage appraisals from photos, utilizing electronic estimating software Audit collision repair estimates to ensure proper method of repairs ...

A Service Appraiser must evaluate each store with a fair and accurate measurement of customer service, cleanliness, and merchandising according to the Service Appraiser Handbook and provide feedback ...

A Service Appraiser must evaluate each store with a fair and accurate measurement of customer service, cleanliness, and merchandising according to the Service Appraiser Handbook and provide feedback ...

Showing results 21-40

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.
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:
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.

Vehicle Condition Assessor

Carmax

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$17 - $27.20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 731 rated retailers


Job description

6004 - Des Moines - 10315 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, Iowa, 50322

CarMax, the way your career should be! 

 

Position Overview

As a Vehicle Condition Assessor (VCA), you will play a critical role in delivering exceptional customer experiences by accurately assessing and documenting vehicle conditions for appraisals. Your work ensures quality, transparency, and efficiency in inventory management, directly impacting customer satisfaction. In this role, you’ll collaborate with Buyers, Senior Buyers, and Purchasing Managers, assist with lot merchandising, and support wholesale auction operations. If you have a passion for detail and enjoy working in a dynamic environment, this position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.

Why CarMax?

At CarMax, we are the nation’s largest retailer of used cars with stores from coast to coast, and we are still growing. We’re rethinking the way people buy cars – and our associates help us do just that. We believe work should feel meaningful and rewarding, with opportunities to make an impact every day. Whether you’re advancing your career or growing your skillset, we are here to drive you forward.

Role Responsibilities

  • Conduct accurate vehicle assessments, documenting cosmetic and mechanical conditions for appraisal analysis.
  • Ensure accurate optioning of vehicles during assessments and inventory updates.
  • Perform high-quality imaging of wholesale vehicles for CarMax websites and support wholesale auction preparation and operations.
  • Complete vehicle secures and confirmations, verifying appraisal details and resolving discrepancies.
  • Assist with inventory management, customer transfers, and lot merchandising as needed.
  • Collaborate with team members and assist with onboarding new associates to maintain operational excellence.
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Ability to deliver exceptional customer service and collaborate across departments.
  • Skilled in following standardized processes and maintaining accurate records.
  • Strong communication skills for effective interaction with internal and external customers.
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment and work independently.
  • Valid driver’s license and willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as need and physical ability for walking, bending, kneeling, and standing for extended periods.
  • Commitment to CarMax policies and professional appearance standards.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in vehicle assessments or a related automotive field is a plus.

About CarMax

At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by introducing transparency and integrity into the process. Our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and community has made us the nation’s largest used car retailer. With over 250 store locations and over 30,000 associates, we are proud to have been recognized as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® and are committed to helping our communities thrive.

As an associate, you are part of an innovative movement to empower the modern customer and drive progress. Your work fuels change—sparking ideas, overcoming challenges, and shaping what’s next. Join us in creating a better future– for our company, our customers, and the communities we call home.

CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The hourly rate for this position is:

$17.00 - $27.20

Benefits:

Except as otherwise required by state law, CarMax Associates are entitled to the following paid sick, vacation, and holiday time.

Associates that are considered full-time hourly or commission/incentive eligible:

  • To earn up to 48 hours of sick time per year accrued on a per pay period basis and between 80 hours and 200 hours per year of vacation time after a 90 day waiting period depending on years of continuous service with the Company. 
  • For 8 hours of pay for each of a total of 6 paid scheduled holidays per year plus 1 floating holiday.  If such an Associate does work on a scheduled holiday due to business need, they are eligible for Holiday Premium Pay. 

Associates considered full-time salaried are entitled to paid time away with no specified limit as needed for sick, vacation, bereavement, jury duty, holidays, floating holiday, etc. subject to manager approval. 

For more details about benefits, please visit our CarMax Benefits website.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.


What CarMax employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Workplace

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About CarMax

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CarMax disrupted the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity experience customers want and deserve. This innovative thinking around the way cars are bought and sold has helped us become the nation's largest retailer of used cars, with over 200 locations nationwide. Our amazing team of more than 25,000 associates work together to deliver iconic customer experiences. Along the way, we help every associate grow their career and achieve their best, at work and in their community. We are recognized for our commitment to training and diversity and are one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®.

Industry

Automobile dealers and finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Henrico, VA, US