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Bill

SB 995

Real estate appraisers; educational requirement for licensure, fair housing & appraisal bias course.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Angelia Graves

Virginia requires real estate appraisers to complete fair housing and bias training for licensure to reduce discriminatory property valuations.

Senate sustained Governor's veto
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Bill Summary · SB 995

Legislative bill overview

SB 995 requires Virginia real estate appraisers to complete educational coursework in fair housing laws and appraisal bias as a condition of licensure. The bill mandates specific training on discriminatory practices and their prevention within the appraisal profession, addressing concerns about bias in property valuations.

Why is this important

Appraisals directly affect home values, mortgage approvals, and wealth accumulation, making them critical to fair housing outcomes. Research has documented disparities in property valuations based on neighborhood demographics and race, with systemic bias in appraisals contributing to wealth gaps. This requirement aims to standardize training on recognizing and preventing bias that could disadvantage certain communities or borrowers.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden: Opponents argue additional educational requirements increase licensure costs and complexity for appraisers, potentially reducing workforce availability
  • Effectiveness questions: Skeptics question whether classroom training translates to changed appraisal practices without enforcement mechanisms or measurable performance standards
  • Scope disputes: Disagreement exists over whether this addresses root causes of appraisal bias or places responsibility primarily on individual appraisers versus systemic market factors and lender practices

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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