North Columbus News

The Ohio Division of Real Estate has announced updates to the state’s appraiser program, including a new online application process and changes to education requirements for real estate appraisers.

The division plans to launch its online application and payment system on Monday, October 20, 2025. Paper applications delivered in person must be received by the end of business on Friday, October 17, 2025. Mailed paper applications must also be postmarked by that date. The division advises applicants to monitor its website for any updates regarding these deadlines.

Education requirements are changing for both current and new Ohio real estate appraisers. The Ohio Real Estate Appraiser Board has adopted the Appraiser Qualifications Board’s (AQB) standards concerning a course on Valuation Bias and Fair Housing Laws & Regulations. These changes will take effect by January 1, 2026, as required by the AQB.

For existing credential holders with expiration dates of December 31, 2025 or earlier, the seven-hour Valuation Bias and Fair Housing course is not required for their 2025 renewal applications. They will follow renewal requirements previously provided by the division. Those filing before October 17, 2025 will use a paper application; those applying on or after October 20 will use the new online system.

Appraisers whose credentials expire between January 1, 2026 and April 8, 2026 must complete the seven-hour course for their 2026 renewals. The same deadline applies: paper applications must be submitted or postmarked by October 17, while online submissions begin October 20.

For those with expiration dates from April 9, 2027 through December 31, 2027, completion of the seven-hour course is required for their respective renewal cycles.

New applicants seeking an Ohio appraiser license or certificate after January 1, 2026 are required to provide proof of completing an eight-hour Valuation Bias and Fair Housing Law course. This requirement also applies to current credential holders seeking upgrades. The class includes an examination component mandatory only for new credential seekers; it is not needed for continuing education purposes among existing appraisers.

Applications submitted before December 31, 2025 do not require this eight-hour course.

Applicants are encouraged to review details about these changes on the division’s website and plan accordingly if they intend to apply after December 31, 2025.