Advanced Predictive Modeling in Excel

Advanced Predictive Modeling in Excel is designed to benefit all users of Microsoft Excel, especially those whose job duties include data analysis and modeling with large databases. This is a two-day course and the material reflects the Excel 2013 version of the software. Major subjects covered by the course include: Statistics and probability, model types, development, techniques and evaluation, development of time adjustments, trendline analysis, multiple regression analysis (MRA), using MRA to develop valuation models, using MRA to develop adjustment factors.

Appraising After a Disaster or in Traumatic Events

Stuff happens! Assessment officials are constantly faced with appraising property after a disaster – whether natural or man-made. Disasters discussed in this workshop will help you make some preparations in advance and possibly provide a blueprint in case your jurisdiction becomes affected by a disaster. Disasters are traumatic events but for the assessor’s not all traumatic events are disasters. In this workshop we will also provide some examples of extreme growth or economic changes and some steps that an assessor/appraiser can use to help make these extreme changes manageable. These traumatic events are a separate issue from disasters

Basic Exemption/Deferral Workshop

This course combines the Basic Workshop and the Admin Workshop. It will begin with a highlight and discussion of the legislative changes with the passing of Substitute House Bill 1438. In addition, we will discuss the four property tax relief programs available to individual homeowners: Exemption and Deferral Programs for Senior Citizens and People with Disabilities; Deferral Program for Homeowners with Limited Income; and Grant Assistance Program for Widows/Widowers of Veterans. Covered topics include basic qualifications, laws and rules, program administration, combined disposable income, what to look for on a tax return, and analyzing trusts for ownership requirements. We will include Q&A periods and case studies.

Basic/Intermediate Excel Tools and Concepts for Modeling

Basic/Intermediate Excel Tools and Concepts for Modeling is designed to benefit all users of Microsoft Excel, especially those whose job duties include data analysis and modeling with large databases. This is a two-day course and the material reflects the Excel 2013 version of the software. Major subjects covered by the course include: Excel capabilities and history, automated Excel functions, data management tools and shortcuts, graphing and charts, and basic economics.

BOE – New & Senior Member Training

The two day Board of Equalization Training Seminar provides an overview of BOE duties. The presentation is designed for clerks and new or reappointed board members. The course concentrates on basic board fundamentals, although experienced staff members are welcome to attend and share their experiences. Both PowerPoint presentations and group discussion will be utilized throughout both days. The more complex issues will be addressed as time allows. This course satisfies the training requirements listed in RCW 84.48.042.

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BOE – Senior Member Training

The one day Board of Equalization Training Seminar provides guidance for the experienced board members and clerks. The majority of the class will be spent discussing topics of interest as a group. Participants are encouraged to supply the Department of Revenue with any specific topics they would like to discuss prior to or at the meeting. This course satisfies the training requirements listed in RCW 84.48.042.

BOE – Clerk Training

This Board of Equalization training seminar provides an overview of BOE clerk duties and responsibilities. This seminar is intended for new and experienced clerks, not board members. The course will concentrate on processing appeal petitions; determining timeliness and completeness; good cause waivers and reconvene requests; characteristics of effective board orders; maintaining case files; and other clerk fundamentals. Experienced staff members are encouraged to attend and share their experiences and best practices. The course will utilize PowerPoint presentations and group discussion with discussion of more complex issues as time allows. This course will NOT satisfy the training requirements listed in RCW 84.48.042.

Board of Equalization / Board of Tax Appeals Preparation and Presentation

This course will provide appraisers (or other assessment staff) of the requirements, methods, and techniques to be effective in presenting appeals before the Board of Equalization and the Board of Tax Appeals. Instruction will be given on how to prepare supporting documentation as well as providing techniques for presenting effective evidence and testimony at hearings. The course is also designed to inform assessment professionals of the skills necessary to make clear, concise, and effective presentations. Other topics will include a review of the appeal process, the statutory and regulatory authority of the Board to operate and the standards of review used in making Board determinations.

Collection, Interpretation, & Model Building

This one day course will concentrate on the basic administrative practices for land classified in the Current Use Program created by the Open Space Taxation Act, under chapter 84.34 RCW and the Designated Forest Land Program, under chapter 84.33 RCW. The purpose of the course is to provide consistent and uniform administration of the program statewide. Both the technical and administrative perspectives will be covered for each classification. Emphasis will be given to the proper classification, continued requirements and removal of land in the programs. The course is designed to benefit new current use administrative staff.

Contamination & Valuation Issues Workshop

This one-day workshop deals with contamination and appraisal problems and by use of case studies using actual market data, steps the participants through the appraisal process of measuring value and/or value loss. Topics to be discussed are: • USPAP • Mold Contamination, Mercury Contamination and Meth Labs • Asbestos • Chinese drywall • Chinese laminate flooring • Oil spills • Fracking • Sinkholes • Snake infestation

Current Use Administration

This one day course will concentrate on the basic administrative practices for land classified in the Current Use Program created by the Open Space Taxation Act, under chapter 84.34 RCW and the Designated Forest Land Program, under chapter 84.33 RCW. The purpose of the course is to provide consistent and uniform administration of the program statewide. Both the technical and administrative perspectives will be covered for each classification. Emphasis will be given to the proper classification, continued requirements and removal of land in the programs. The course is designed to benefit new current use administrative staff. New legislation will also be discussed.

Current Use – Basic

This one day course will concentrate on the basic administrative practices for land classified in the Current Use Program created by the Open Space Taxation Act, under chapter 84.34 RCW and the Designated Forest Land Program, under chapter 84.33 RCW. The purpose of the course is to provide consistent and uniform administration of the program statewide. Both the technical and administrative perspectives will be covered for each classification. Emphasis will be given to the proper classification, continued requirements and removal of land in the programs. The course is designed to benefit new current use administrative staff.

Developing Capitalization Rates

When using the income approach to estimate the value of real estate one of the components that will need to be determined by the assessor/appraiser is the capitalization rate. This workshop will explore the difference between capitalization rates used in direct capitalization and a yield rate used in yield capitalization. We will discuss the difference between an overall capitalization rate, a land capitalization rate and a building capitalization rate along with some other common terms used in capitalization rates discussion such as unloaded versus loaded capitalization rates, terminal capitalization rates.

Developing Land Models

Developing Land Models is a three day computer workshop designed to benefit assessment staff who specialize in constructing valuation models. This computer workshop presents techniques for mass appraisal modeling, along with the tools and processes available to develop mass appraisal models. Topics covered include: basic model forms, available Excel functions, ratio studies, IAAO standard, staffing requirements, time adjustments, and the use of simple & multiple regression in modeling. It is recommended that the student be skilled in Microsoft Excel, have exposure to modeling, and A/S ratio studies. The presentation will include sample problems and exercises. The class is held in a computer lab, and a flash drive will be provided to each student.

Fundamentals of the Assessor's Office

The Fundamentals of the Assessor's Office - This course provides a high level overview of the functions of the assessor’s office, and is intended to provide basic information for new employees with limited knowledge of property tax administration. Students seeking more detailed technical training in various property tax programs are encouraged to register for program-specific courses offered on the DOR/WSACA Property Tax Training Calendar.

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IAAO Workshop 100

This workshop is designed to provide the students with a basic understanding of the procedures and techniques used within a mass appraisal office. This workshop introduces students to some of the concepts involved in using two approaches to value: the cost approach and the sales comparison approach.

IAAO COURSE 101 – Fundamentals of Real Property Appraisal

Fundamentals of Real Property Appraisal is designed to provide the students with an understanding and working knowledge of the procedures and techniques required to estimate the market value of vacant and improved properties. This course concentrates on the skills necessary for estimating the market value of properties using two approaches to value: the cost approach and the sales comparison approach. Recommended: Property Assessment Valuation (PAV) textbook.

IAAO COURSE 102 – Income Approach to Valuation

Income Approach to Valuation is designed to provide the students with an understanding and working knowledge of the procedures and techniques required to estimate the market value of vacant or improved properties by the income approach. The material covers real estate finance and investment, capitalization methods and techniques, analysis of income and expenses to estimate operating income, selection of capitalization rates, and application of the approach. Recommended: Course 101, Property Assessment Valuation (PAV) textbook

IAAO Course 112 – Income Approach to Valuation II

IAAO Course 112 is a comprehensive, interactive program intended for mid-level, commercial-industrial appraisers. The material will cover the income approach to value in depth, and reflect contemporary appraisal theory. The course will be broad based, while covering many topics that will focus on a case study problem that utilizes methodology learned in the course and will allow the audience to work through the case study to its conclusion. Depending on the size of the class, students will be grouped, based on the instructor’s summation of the student’s class participation. The groups will generally consist of 2-4 students. Each group will be expected to present their results to the remainder of the class. The instructor will be available to assist each group. Recommended: Course 101, Course 102, Property Assessment Valuation (PAV) textbook (3rd edition).

IAAO Course 158 Highest and Best Use

Highest and best use is a concept in real estate appraisal in which market value is achieved by the reasonably and probable legal land use that results in the highest value and is an essential step in the mass appraisal process that is required before the creation of market value estimates. Local law may mandate preferential assessments according to specific land uses such as agricultural, historic and so forth rather than the highest and best use. This workshop is designed to provide students with a more in-depth study and understanding of the role and purpose of highest and best use in the appraisal process. Finally, this course will feature discussions of the unique situations that sometimes arise in a highest and best use analysis.

IAAO Course 201 – Appraisal of Land

Appraisal of Land is designed to provide the students with an understanding and working knowledge of the procedures and techniques required to estimate the market value of land. This course concentrates on the skills necessary for estimating land value primarily using the sales comparison approach. Recommended: Course 101, Course 102, Property Assessment Valuation (PAV) textbook (3rd edition).

IAAO COURSE 300 – Fundamentals of Mass Appraisal

This course provides an introduction to mass appraisal and is a prerequisite for the 300 series of courses offered by the IAAO. Topics covered include single-property appraisal versus mass appraisal, components of a mass appraisal system, data requirements and analysis, introduction to statistics, use of assessment ratio studies in mass appraisal, modeling of the three approaches to value, and selection of a mass appraisal system. Recommended: Course 101, 102, MARP

IAAO COURSE 311 – Residential Modeling Concepts

Course 311 presents a detailed study of the mass appraisal process as applied to residential property. Topics covered include a comparison of single-property appraisal and mass appraisal, the major steps in the mass appraisal process, data requirements, market analysis, application of the approaches to value, use of sales ratio studies, and valuation review techniques. Recommended: Course 300, MARP.

IAAO COURSE 312 – Commercial/Industrial Modeling Concepts

Course 312 presents a detailed study of the mass appraisal process as applied to income-producing property. Topics include income property data, market analysis, sales comparison approach, cost approach, cost approach, gross and net income analysis, capitalization rate development, model specification and calibration, and value review and maintenance. Recommended: Course 300, MARP.

IAAO COURSE 331 – Mass Appraisal Practices and Procedures

This course is designed to build on the subject matter covered in Course 300 - Fundamentals of Mass Appraisal and prepare the student to take the more advanced mass appraisal courses. It teaches the student how to use Excel and SPSS to analyze data and apply it. Much of the emphasis will be on data accumlation and analysis primarily directed toward the cost approach. Along the way the student will learn how to use the graphing and analysis tools within Excel for ratio studies, in addition to supporting existing cost schedules or building new ones.

IAAO COURSE 400 – Assessment Administration

Course 400 covers administrative concepts and procedures that can produce greater efficiency in the modern assessment office. Students explore the key subsystems of an organization and how to operate them more effectively. Also included is the manager's role within an assessment organization: the processes of planning, directing, coordinating, organizing, budgeting, and evaluating toward the better utilization of human and physical resources. Topics include information systems, reappraisal, setting goals and objectives, maintenance, appeals, data processing, public relations, personnel, budgeting, report reviews, ratio studies, evaluations and standards of practice. Recommended: Course 101, and The Appraisal Foundation's Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), PAAA

Industrial Valuation

This course is an intermediate level course and the audience should have experience with commercial appraising. Overview of the appraisal process. Methodologies used in the valuation of special purpose/industrial properties. Emphasis is to provide guidelines relating to issues, appraisal techniques, and methodologies applicable to the Cost and Income Approaches for special purpose property in. Washington.Issues covered will include market information, factors affecting value, property inspection, data gathering and analysis, the cost, sales comparison, and income approaches and the value reconciliation process.

Intermediate Predictive Modeling

Intermediate Predictive Modeling in Excel is designed to benefit all users of Microsoft Excel, especially those whose job duties include data analysis and modeling with large databases. This is a two-day course and the material reflects the Excel 2013 version of the software. Major subjects covered by the course include: Statistics and probability, model types, development, techniques and evaluation, development of time adjustments, trend line analysis, multiple regression analysis (MRA), using MRA to develop valuation models, using MRA to develop adjustment factors.

Interpreting Legal Documents

An overview/explanation of title/escrow will be presented, along with why a general knowledge of chain of title is important to the assessor's office. Various documents that affect title to real property in the State of Washington will be discussed generally, and in the context of the assessor's responsibility to discover and assess real property for tax purposes. Various scenarios will be discussed that will help clarify the effect of legal documents on title. Specific DOR taxation programs will not be discussed in detail; but how a specific interest in real property may affect qualification for a DOR program will be discussed.

Land Segregation & Other Related Topics

This class will address topics related to the definitions and workflow of various documents that move through the Assessor’s Office, such as easements, annexations, tax code area changes, plats/subdivisions, boundary line adjustments, rights of way, deeds, superior court orders, surveys, etc. The workflow/process discussion will also include segregation procedures (deed, administrative, senior citizen, and DFL/current use), statutory dates, levy processes and timing, TCA annexation reports to the DOR, valuation issues and processes (annual and cyclical), and new construction. Additionally, statutes and rules will be discussed relating to the prepayment of property taxes for certain items processed in the Assessor’s Office.

Legal Descriptions

The Assessor is not only required to identify taxable property, but also to identify who has the tax liability for that property. This requires knowledge of how legal documents affect the title to property. This class will provide an overview/explanation of title/escrow, along with why a general knowledge of chain of title is important to the Assessor’s office. Various documents that affect the title to real property in the State of Washington will be discussed in the context of the Assessor’s responsibility to discover and assess real property for tax purposes. Various scenarios will be discussed that will help clarify the effect of legal documents on the title. We will discuss (among other topics) legal descriptions, interests in real property (including easements, co-ownership, life estates, etc.), title to real property, real estate financing documents, document language, and some of the statutes behind legal documents.

Levy Training - Basic

• The two-day, Basic Levy Training session provides on overview of the property tax levy process and basic training in the calculation of levies and levy limitations. The presentation is designed for new levy specialists from either the Assessor's office or taxing district staffs. Other professionals that work in or around the property tax system are welcome. This session presumes that the participants have minimal experience with levies, so we concentrate on the fundamentals.

Levy Training - Senior

• The purpose of this seminar is to review general guidelines and to discuss problems counties are experiencing as well as what role the Department of Revenue can play to provide assistance to the counties. These training sessions are specifically directed to experienced levy personnel.
• 2021 Senior Levy Presentation
• Senior Levy 1189 Hand Out

Low End and Difficult Residential Properties

The purpose of this workshop is to provide assistance in the valuation of low end and difficult residential properties that often create valuation issues. It is not unusual that these types of properties when sold have a sales ratio considerably higher than 1.00 and a very regressive PRD (Price-Related Differential).

Mass Appraisal Analysis & Benchmarks

This one-day workshop is designed to help refresh mass appraisal techniques used in the valuation process and also to help establish some processes and procedures for unusual or more challenging events. Topics discussed include: USPAP, Scope of Work, Mass Appraisal, Market Value, Highest and Best Use Analysis, Neighborhood Analysis, Benchmarks, Sales Validation, Sales Ratio Analysis, Sales Chasing and Trending.

Personal Property - Introduction (2 days)

The introductory course is directed toward anyone who is new to the personal property tax field or would like a refresher course. The course includes a thorough overview of personal property laws, rules, and Property Tax Advisories/Bulletins; listing requirements; estimating value; and application of Department of Revenue valuation guidelines and supplemental schedules. The course also includes a general overview of discovery of personal property, auditing methods, and IRS records applicable to auditing.

Ratio Studies and Statistics Workshop (2 days)

This two day advanced ratio study workshop is designed to expose assessors and appraisers to ratio study statistics, concepts, and interpretation. The course will provide attendees with information on how ratio studies are used nationally and will take students through a broad array of ratio study statistics, emphasizing measures of assessment level and uniformity. Sampling concepts, including time adjustments, sample size considerations, and representativeness, will also be covered. On the second day there will be discussion and demonstration of statistical reliability and considerable time will be spent interpreting analysis examples. There will be an introduction to multiple regression analysis (MRA) and discussion of how ratio studies and MRA can work hand in hand to assure assessment quality. Students will be expected to perform mathematical calculations throughout the class, so calculators will be necessary.

Real Estate Law – Interpreting Legal Documents

The Assessor is not only required to identify taxable property, but also to identify who has the tax liability for that property. This requires knowledge of how legal documents affect the title to property. This class will provide an overview/explanation of title/escrow, along with why a general knowledge of chain of title is important to the Assessor’s office. Various documents that affect the title to real property in the State of Washington will be discussed in the context of the Assessor’s responsibility to discover and assess real property for tax purposes. Various scenarios will be discussed that will help clarify the effect of legal documents on the title. We will discuss (among other topics) legal descriptions, interests in real property (including easements, co-ownership, life estates, etc.), title to real property, real estate financing documents, document language, and some of the statutes behind legal documents.

Residential Quality, Condition & Eff. Age Wkshp. (2 days)

This workshop will review the characteristics that determine construction quality for residential properties by use of the Marshall & Swift Valuation Service. House images will be included in the presentation and will lead to extensive classroom participation and will also assist in the discussion on rating homes for condition in relationship to the definition and description for each condition rating. Effective age will be defined and demonstrated on how to extract it from the market. Several data sets will be provided for the students to calculate effective age and how to use for the development of a depreciation or percent good table.

Reviewing A Forest Management Plan

This one day workshop will concentrate on the review of forest management plans in determining both initial and continuing qualifications for timber/forestland parcels under chapter 84.34 RCW and chapter 84.33 RCW. Students will be given resources to assist them in evaluating the plans, general information for proper classification, continued requirements, and removal of land in both programs. This workshop is designed for program administrators.

Senior Exemption/Deferral Training-Basic

This one-day course will focus on the basic administrative practices for the property tax relief programs for seniors and disabled persons. The course is designed to be an introduction to the laws and rules governing the Exemption and Deferral Programs for Seniors and Disabled Persons. Covered subjects will include qualifications, calculation of disposable income, and administration.

Timberland- Designated Forest Land

This one-day workshop will concentrate on the application process, and review of forest management plans in determining both initial and continuing qualifications for timber/forestland parcels under chapter 84.33 RCW and chapter 84.34 RCW. Students will be given resources to assist them in evaluating the plans, general information for proper classification, continued requirements. This workshop is designed for program administrators.

Tiny Homes

This one-day workshop deals with unique and challenging home appraisal problems and by use of case studies and actual market data, steps the participants through the appraisal process of measuring value and/or value loss.

Understanding Marijuana Laws and Regulations

The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) will review the laws and regulations of the marijuana industry. This class will also cover the special types of equipment that is used in the growing, processing, and retailing of marijuana. The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) will provide information on licensing industrial hemp, information will be provided on difference between marijuana and industrial hemp.

USPAP 15 Hour

This course covers basic rules for ethical behavior and competent performance. It is designed to comply with USPAP requirements for state certified appraisers, and it highlights the role of the appraiser and the implied impartiality often associated with this role. Participants learn how requirements of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice affect their appraisal businesses.

Valuation of Barndominiums

Purpose of this workshop is to provide some guidance and suggestions on the process of analysis and valuation of metal buildings converted to living areas. What we call Barndominiums. These are structures that appear to be metal clad farm buildings but part or all the structure has been finished on the interior and used as living area. Some are used as temporary living area while the owners construct a new stick-built home, while others are built as a permanent residence. The framing can be pole or steel.

Valuation of Big Box Properties

The valuation of big box properties is a one-day workshop that provides an overview of valuation guidelines for the big box properties. Information from actual property appraisals will be utilized to illustrate some processes and procedures. Specific topics addressed include: USPAP review, market value versus value in use, highest and best use, land valuation, costs, sales comparison, and income approach. Upon completion of this course participants will understand the difference between market value in use, and highest and best use, and how they apply to big box properties.

Valuation of Fast Food Restaurants

This workshop takes a look at Fast Food properties, also known as Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), in the restaurant industry. Current trends in QSRs will be reviewed, as well as real-world case studies that address first-generation vs. second-generation users, build-to-suit, credit tenant/long-term lease, and property rights valuation issues. Workshop material addresses USPAP, highest and best use, as well as the cost, sales comparison, and the income approaches.

Valuation of Green Buildings Workshop

Purpose of this workshop is to provide some guidance and suggestions on the process of analysis and valuation of green buildings. Information from various areas of the U.S. will be used to help establish some processes and procedures. Images and property characteristics of sold properties will be used.

Valuation of Green Commercial Buildings

Purpose of this workshop is to provide some guidance and suggestions on the process of data collection and analysis of green commercial buildings from various areas of the U.S. Images and property characteristics of sales and listed properties plus data relating to income and expenses and the related market value will be used.

Valuation of Green Residential Buildings

Purpose of this workshop is to provide some guidance and suggestions on the process of analysis and valuation of green residential buildings. Information from various areas of the United States will be used to help establish some processes and procedures. Images and property characteristics of sold properties will be used.

Valuation of High-End & Difficult Homes

Purpose of this workshop is to provide some guidance and suggestions on the process of data collection and analysis of high-end and difficult residential properties. Information from various areas of the U.S. will be used to help establish some processes and procedures. Images and property characteristics of sales and listed properties will be used.

Valuation of Historic Properties

The purpose of this workshop is to provide some guidance and suggestions on process of data collection and analysis of historic properties. Information from various sources and areas of the United States will be used to help establish some processes and procedures to determine if the market reacts differently to historic versus non-historic properties. Topics discussed are: USPAP, background information on National Register of Historic Places, definitions and designation as an historic place, websites and data sources, highest and best use analysis, review of economic principles and the three approaches to value.

Valuation of Lodging Properties

Purpose of this workshop is to provide guidance and suggestions on the valuation process of lodging properties including hotel/motel properties. The workshop will look at the different classifications of hotel/motel properties, lodging terminology and how all three approaches to value can be used to value these types of properties. The workshop will also provide some internet web sites where additional information on the hotel/motel industry can be discovered. Also, included is some information on what authorities in the field say lies ahead for the industry in the upcoming year or two.

Valuation of Manufactured Homes Workshop

This one-day workshop is designed to provide historical and current data to assist in the evaluation of Manufactured Homes. Topics for this session include history, trends, how to distinguish between manufactured homes, modular homes, panelized homes and pre-cut or kit homes, financing and Internet sources for research and information. All three approaches to value will be discussed and examples given. Considerable time will be spent on developing replacement cost new from the marketplace, comparing to cost manuals and calculating indexes. Depreciation and gross rent multipliers will be extracted from actual market data. Actual sales will be used to compare to cost manual value estimates and the workshop will conclude with two sections on questions and answers from assessors/appraisers and potential owners of manufactured homes.

Valuation of Senior Housing

The senior housing valuation seminar is a one-day workshop that provides an overview of valuation guidelines for the four main types of senior housing (independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and variety of care retirement facilities). The seminar will also address Alzheimer/ Dementia care units in the various property types. Specific topics addressed include: property rights; components/allocation of value; ownership types; market analysis; property data and analysis; cost approach; sales comparison (market) approach; and income approach. Significant time will be spent on the market analysis and income approach to value, with emphasis on the collection and analysis of rent, occupancy, demographic, income/expense, and capitalization rate data. Examples will include single property and mass appraisal applications.

Valuation of Unique Properties

This one-day workshop deals with unique appraisal problems and by use of case studies using actual market data, steps the participants through the appraisal process of measuring value and/or value loss. Topics of discussion include:

• Discussion and review of USPAP history and standards.
• Mold Contamination, Mercury Contamination, Meth Labs, Snake Infestation
• Out of Town Buyers
• Metal-Sided Dwellings
• Valuation Using Limited Sales
• Chinese Drywall