Spokane, WA - Residential appraiser Rob Bodkin, SRA, knows what it’s like to feel stuck in the AMC grind - low fees, endless revisions, and burnout from chasing lender work. That’s why he’s bringing his candid, practical, and often humorous perspective to the 2025 ACOW Spring Conference in Spokane.
In his session, “Ditch the AMC, Keep the Fee: The Private Work Playbook,” Bodkin will guide fellow appraisers through the mindset and strategies needed to break away from dependency on AMCs and build a sustainable, profitable private appraisal business.
Bodkin, who has helped hundreds of appraisers make the leap into private work, will deliver a session packed with relatable stories, actionable advice, and real-world tools. Attendees will learn:
- The top types of private/non-lender work - everything from estates to divorces to property disputes
- How to set expectations and educate clients who’ve never hired an appraiser before
- Where the best sources of private work originate and how professionals can strategically position themselves to receive it
- Why, in private work, the appraiser collaborates with the client to define the scope, instead of deferring to an underwriter
“This isn’t a get-rich-quick gimmick,” said Bodkin. “It’s a mindset shift. If you’re tired of chasing low-fee jobs and ready to do meaningful, respected work on your own terms, this talk is for you.”
The presentation will also feature a live Q&A segment in which Bodkin addresses real-world scenarios submitted by attendees. Supporting materials such as sample engagement letters and system-building checklists will be available to help appraisers begin structuring their own private work models.
(Note: These resources are complimentary for attendees as part of the session.)
As part of this practical education, Bodkin will also reference proven resources like the Appraiser Marketing Group, which helps professionals grow their private client base through smart outreach, branding, and referrals. Attendees will walk away with tools to strengthen their appraiser marketing strategy in both digital and community-based channels.
About ACOW
The Appraisers' Coalition of Washington (ACOW) represents licensed real estate appraisers throughout the state. Through education, advocacy, and its annual conference, ACOW helps appraisers navigate regulatory changes, grow professionally, and connect with peers.
Conference Details:
ACOW 2025 Spring Conference
May 8–9, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Hilton Garden Inn Spokane
9015 US 2 West, Spokane, WA 98224
Event Info: https://acow-wa.org/meetinginfo.php?id=7&ts=1744396284
Media Contact
Name
Appraiser Marketing Group
Contact name
Chip Holmes
Contact phone
725-255-2707
Contact address
675 S Green Valley Pkwy, STE 1226
City
Henderson
State
Nevada
Zip
89052
Country
United States
Url
https://appraisermarketinggroup.com/