The Architecture of Appraising: Building on a Solid Foundation

By Elise Waters Olonia, ISA AM, Conference Chairperson

Chicago evokes images of towering, landmark skyscrapers, well-designed parks, savory international cuisine, a vast array of specialty museums, engaging night life and much more! In 1871, Chicago endured the challenge of its central business district burning to the ground. What followed was the cooperative effort of the people to re-build this resilient town into a greater renown. Hence, the "Second City."

As members and affiliates of an innovative, hardworking and curious community, we have the opportunity this year at Assets 2017 to look at our own practice with fresh eyes. Like the people of Chicago, we will build upon our roots, our core education, to deepen our understanding of all facets of the appraisal business. Utilizing experts both within and associated with our industry, growth and development of our practice will occur!

We are pleased to introduce several new educational and informative events. On Thursday, March 30 and Friday, March 31, a Pre-Conference Course will be offered, “How to Be an Effective and Successful Appraisal Witness.” This course will be led by James J. Mangraviti, Jr., Esq. who has trained thousands of expert witnesses. Additional regular onsite courses will be offered including a 7 hour USPAP Course on March 30 and a Requalification Course at the end of the week on April 4 and 5.

Also on Thursday evening, there will be a special gathering of estate lawyers in Chicago at the historic Palmer House, our host property. A panel featuring several estate lawyers and ISA appraisers will discuss new estate issues. This informative evening and opportunity for conversation will be most helpful for those actively working with estates.

Another exciting development will debut at this year's conference! In our Saturday breakout sessions, a third track of education is being offered to specifically address the Generalist. This new division was created to accommodate our group of professionals who may or may not be actively appraising and are perhaps, more centered in estate sales.

On Friday the 31st, specialty lectures and tours have been thoughtfully organized. Participants will enjoy lectures by highly trained experts at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, the Museum of Contemporary Photography and the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition to the lectures, select artifacts and objects will be available for closer examination. New this year is a special lecture at AIC by Dr. Alexis Culotta on Provenance.

Take time in preparing for this year’s conference so that you get the most out of each opportunity. Become familiar with the details of this engaging program on our website. Remember that all classes and lectures provide educational credits for your portfolio. Investigate what’s happening in the city in the event you decide to extend your stay. Give the gift of this conference to yourself and/or sponsor someone else who has interest.

Assets 2017 ignites the vision of warm embraces from colleagues, the discovery of art and antiques through expert eyes, answers to lingering appraisal questions, discovering new tools and pathways of obtaining information, forming relationships which opens doors to business opportunities and much more… 

Join us today! 

Sincerely,
Elise Waters Olonia, ISA AM, Conference Chairperson