Veteran Colorado assessor Mark Chapin joins host Will Jarvis to share how a chance shoe-store encounter launched his 48-year career in property assessment. Mark explains what it’s like serving as an elected assessor in resort-heavy Eagle County, how his team values everything from mobile homes to $40M mansions using mass appraisal and market specialization, and why he believes independence from political pressure matters. He closes with practical career and leadership advice on patience, culture-building, and treating taxpayers like customers: “meet everybody like they’re your friend.”

In Episode 62 of "Assessment Matters," join host Will Jarvis as he sits down with Scott Rountree, Chief Appraiser, to explore the evolving landscape of property assessment. Scott shares insights from his journey from real estate to public service, discussing the impact of technology and AI on the field. Discover how Scott navigates the challenges of budget constraints and the importance of continuous learning in the appraisal industry.

Join CEO and host Will Jarvis for a conversation with Bobby Fisher from Bulloch County, Georgia. Bobby is the GAAO President. They discuss Bobby's journey and the insights he's gained over the years.

In Episode 61 of "Assessment Matters," host Will Jarvis, CEO of ValueBase, sits down with Mike Montandon from Navajo County, AZ. Together, they explore the intricacies of property assessment and the unique challenges faced in Navajo County. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of property valuation.

Join Will Jarvis, CEO of Valuebase and host of Assessment Matters, and guest, Travis Noll, on "Assessment Matters," where they delve into the intricacies of valuation and assessment in today's dynamic market. Discover insights, strategies, and expert interviews that illuminate the path to understanding value in business.

Listen while Will Jarvis, CEO of Valuebase, sits down with Mecklenburg County Assessor, Ken Joyner, to discuss how he got into Property Tax and what he's learned over his career!

On this episode of "Assessment Matters," join host Will and guest Les Ratliff as they delve into the unexpected journey of becoming an appraiser. Les shares his story of how a mix-up led him to a career in appraisal, the challenges of data quality in mass appraisal, and the evolving role of technology in the field. They also discuss the complexities of property tax systems and the importance of fair distribution. Tune in for insights on navigating the appraisal world and the balance between technology and human interaction.

We sat down with Ashley W. O’Donald, the Executive Director of the Georgia Association of Assessing Officials, to uncover the hidden intricacies of property tax assessments. With over a decade of experience, Ashley shares invaluable insights that every property owner and assessor should know.

ATTENTION: The New Ratio Study Standard Draft That’s About to Change Property Tax

We’ve got a new ratio study standard coming. Meet Luc Hermans – the data scientist from the Netherlands who’s been working to improve ratio study standards.

This isn’t just academic research. Luc sits on the Netherlands Council of Real Estate Valuation AND is spearheading cutting-edge research at Ulster University. When he speaks, forward-thinking assessors pay attention.

Here's what you'll discover in this essential episode:

• Why the traditional PRD and PRB measures have significant limitations (and the new Vertical Equity Index that addresses them)

• The "regression to the mean" challenge that affects accuracy in high-end and low-end assessments

• How to identify vertical equity issues BEFORE they become costly problems

• The proven approach of "independent value estimates" that leading assessment offices are adopting

This is your opportunity to understand these changes before they become industry standard – and while you can still provide input on the final version.

Your next step is clear:

Listen to Episode 56 TODAY. Get the insights you need while there's still time to stay ahead of these important industry developments.

Because when these new standards roll out, you'll want to be prepared, not playing catch-up.

We cover:

• Introduction and Guest Background 0:01

• Importance of Ratio Study Standards 1:47

• Changes in the New Ratio Study Standard 5:28

• Mechanics of the Vertical Equity Index (VEI) 11:25

• Challenges and Importance of Vertical Equity 21:09

• Market Value Proxy and Independent Value Estimates 22:15

• Public Review and Future of the Standard 29:30

• Conclusion and Contact Information 31:37

In this conversation, Ken Lane discusses his background in AI and software development, particularly focusing on the launch of Valpal Lite, a new tool designed to assist property tax assessors. The discussion covers the evolution of AI in software, the capabilities and limitations of AI tools, and the importance of context in their application. Ken emphasizes the supportive role of AI in the industry and highlights the features of Valpal Lite, which aims to enhance efficiency in property tax assessment.takeaways

• Ken Lane has a rich background in AI and software development.
• Valpal Lite is a free tool aimed at property tax assessors.
• AI tools can significantly enhance productivity in appraisal work.
• The importance of context in AI applications cannot be overstated.
• AI is not a replacement for humans but a supplement to their work.
• Validation of AI outputs is crucial to ensure accuracy.
• Valpal Lite includes features like AI chat and comp finder tools.
• The tool aims to support assessors and improve industry practices.
• AI can help address the shortage of appraisers in the field.
• Valpal is designed to be a friendly and helpful assistant.

• "We built a power tool for that."
• "Always validate the outputs."
• "Valpal is your valuation pal."

Sound BitesChapters00:00Introduction to Ken Lane and Valpal02:59The Evolution of AI in Software Development06:02Valpal Lite: A New Tool for Property Tax Assessment08:53Understanding AI Capabilities and Limitations12:01The Importance of Context in AI Applications14:57Features of Valpal Lite and Future Developments