Remote Valuation Surveyor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description

POSITION: Appraiser - Commercial Real Estate

LOCATION: Flexible / Remote in the Midwest (IL/OH/MI)

WHY AEI VALUATION:

AEI Valuation is not a standalone appraisal practice. We are part of AEI Consultants, one of the nation's largest employee-owned commercial real estate due diligence firms, providing integrated environmental, property condition, zoning, land surveying (ALTA/NSPS), and valuation services throughout North America.

This integrated platform gives our appraisers access to better data, broader context, and deeper insight into real estate risk and opportunity-allowing us to deliver valuation work that is both technically sound and practically useful to our clients. Our appraisers collaborate closely with in-house experts across disciplines, providing a level of perspective and consistency that traditional appraisal firms simply cannot match.

POSITION SUMMARY:

AEI Valuation is seeking a Commercial Real Estate Appraiser to independently prepare high-quality appraisal reports across a wide range of property types. This role is well suited for professionals who value analytical rigor, professional standards, and efficiency, while minimizing unnecessary administrative burden.

At AEI, we are focused on delivering a best-in-class client experience, defined by clear and proactive communication, meeting deadlines, and producing consistent, defensible appraisal work. Each appraiser plays a critical role in achieving this standard and is expected to take ownership of both the quality of their work and the client experience throughout the assignment lifecycle.

Appraisers manage assignments from engagement through final delivery, work directly with clients, and contribute meaningfully to the continued growth of AEI's valuation platform.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE DIFFERENT:

A Broader, More Diverse Client Base

• AEI appraisers benefit from a strong base of traditional lender clients, as well as non-lender clients who engage AEI for environmental, property condition, zoning, and survey services.
• This integrated model provides consistent workflow, diversified assignments, and exposure to more complex real estate scenarios-while supporting predictable timelines and client expectations.

Technology + AI = Higher Quality, Less Busy Work

• AEI appraisers utilize best-in-class industry tools, including CoStar, LightBox Report Writer, Argus, and third-party data platforms.
• In addition, AEI has developed an internal AI-enabled appraisal workflow that increases appraiser capacity-allowing for higher-quality reports delivered in less time.
• This structure enables appraisers to focus on analysis, interpretation, and key valuation issues, while maintaining responsiveness and meeting deadlines.

Scalable Support When You're Ready

• For appraisers seeking additional leverage, AEI offers access to a dedicated pool of valuation analysts.
• This structure allows appraisers to concentrate on judgment, narrative development, and valuation conclusions, while analysts support data assembly and lower-value tasks-helping maintain consistency and on-time delivery.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Independently prepare commercial real estate appraisal reports from cover to cover
• Define appropriate scope of work based on client objectives (financing, estate, reporting, investment, or sale)
• Select and apply Cost, Sales Comparison, and Income Capitalization approaches
• Perform market studies, highest and best use, and feasibility analyses
• Research, verify, and analyze sales, listings, rents, operating data, zoning, land use, and ownership information
• Inspect subject and comparable properties and conduct market interviews
• Utilize Argus and third-party databases to support valuation conclusions, as needed
• Maintain clear communication with clients and internal team members throughout the assignment
• Ensure full compliance with USPAP, FIRREA, and client-specific requirements
• Contribute to AEI's internal comparable database and quality initiatives
• Mentor junior appraisers and analysts as appropriate

GROWTH & OPPORTUNITY:

While AEI has over 400 professionals nationwide, our valuation group is actively growing, creating meaningful opportunities for:

• Increased responsibility
• Leadership and mentorship roles
• Long-term career advancement within AEI's valuation platform

We are a national firm, yet still small enough that individual appraisers are valued, heard, and genuinely connected to the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 2 years of commercial real estate appraisal experience
• State Certified General Real Estate Appraiser required
• MAI designation preferred, but not required
• Advanced knowledge of valuation theory, financial analysis, and appraisal reporting
• Proficiency in MS Office, comparable databases, and AI-enabled workflows
• Strong written, verbal, and analytical skills, with a focus on client communication

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree required

CULTURE MATTERS AT AEI:

AEI is deeply committed to culture and inclusion. We are intentional about who we add to the team because we want to preserve an environment where:

• Professionals respect one another's expertise
• Collaboration is authentic and cross-disciplinary
• People take pride in their work and the service they provide to clients

Our goal is to make AEI a place where talented professionals choose to build long-term careers, not just complete assignments.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• The work environment may be both indoors and outdoors. Indoor work takes place in a typical office setting. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Outdoor work requires the ability to effectively perform work in all types of weather conditions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, type, handle office and/or field equipment, speak and hear. The employee may occasionally be required to stand, walk, balance, kneel or crouch. The employee may be required to travel independently and lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to focus.

COMPENSATION

• Fee split targeting $250,000+ in annual production.  Total compensation depends on production. Paid monthly on billings.
• $65,000 base draw against production

EMPLOYEE PERKS & BENEFITS

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Employee referral bonus program
• Commuter tax and dependent care benefits
• Complimentary use of AEI's Donner Lake condo in Truckee, CA

OVERVIEW

AEI Consultants is an employee-owned, national due diligence firm providing environmental, valuation, property condition, zoning, construction risk, land surveying, and sustainability services across North America. Founded in 1992, AEI is known for being reliable, responsive, and relationship-driven, with a strong focus on quality, consistency, and collaboration.

AEI Consultants is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We encourage qualified candidates to apply even if they do not meet every listed requirement.

AEI Careers Site / AEI Culture Handbook