The intent of the Appraiser Independence Requirements (AIR) is to protect which group of stakeholders?

The Appraiser Independence Requirements (AIR) are designed primarily to protect homebuyers and investors by ensuring that appraisal processes remain unbiased and are not influenced by external parties, particularly those involved in the transaction, such as mortgage lenders and real estate agents. This independence is critical to maintaining the integrity of the appraisal system, which, in turn, helps to ensure that the value of a property is accurately assessed. By safeguarding against conflicts of interest or undue influence, AIR fosters transparency and trust in the valuation process, benefiting homebuyers and investors who rely on accurate appraisals for making informed decisions regarding their investments or purchases.

While appraisers, mortgage lenders, and real estate agents may be indirectly affected by these requirements, the primary focus is on protecting the interests of homebuyers and investors, as they are the ones most directly impacted by the outcomes of property valuations. This ensures that the real estate market functions fairly and effectively, providing security for those making financial commitments based on appraised values.