Over the years, several course titles have been changed. When determining whether you have taken a course or not, please refer to the course numbers, not the course titles. Course numbers have not changed. It is also important to read the “Special Notes” associated with each course to determine if there are restrictions associated with the course. Not all courses listed are offered every year.

#002-101 Valuation of Manufactured Housing (Seminar) – Level 1/Residential

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.

#002-102 Collection, Interpretation & Model Building of Income & Expense Data (Seminar)
Level 2/Commercial

The purpose of this workshop is to assist appraisers in the collection and interpretation of income and expense data for the construction of income models for establishing market value. This workshop will concentrate on the following areas: review of the income approach, forms and methods of data gathering and additional data sources, templates for storing and use of data, review of reconstructing income and expense statements, data analysis, interpretation and model building, extraction and development of capitalization rates, testing the income models, and data write-ups and documentation. Special Note: Students who have successfully completed course 019-935, Collection, Interpretation and Model Building of Income and Expense Data, offered in Cook County are not eligible for credit for this course.

Students will understand the underlying concepts that pertain to determining the value of real estate using market-extracted data. Key areas of study include: the mechanics of markets, the foundational economic principles that drive purchasing habits and value, the concept of neighborhoods, and the factors that influence value and determine comparability, as well as, the computational aspects of the sales comparison approach. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-110) or the seminar course (#002-779), but not both.

#002-125 Introduction to Income-Producing Properties
#002-130 Introduction to Income-Producing Properties (Seminar) Level 2/Commercial

This course will familiarize students with various types of commercial property, building classes, and how construction quality grade specifications determine value. The various steps involved in basic commercial construction, from site preparation through completion of the building, will be illustrated with slides of the construction of a commercial building. Working with and collecting information from blueprints basics will also be covered. When practical, a field trip will be part of this course.

#002-127 Case Studies in the Appeal Process (Seminar) – Level 3/Theory

This course reviews not only the legal framework governing the Illinois property tax system, but also identifies the fundamental requirements and principles assessment officials need in order to properly implement a fair assessment system. Areas of study include the sources of law which administer the property tax, an overview of the property tax system concentrating on the avenues of appeal available to taxpayers, and the burdens of proof required to prevail at various levels of appeal. Case studies provide the primary educational vehicle by which the course is presented.

#002-128 Market Factors in Residential Valuation
#002-859 Market Factors in Residential Valuation (Seminar) Level 2/Residential

This course concentrates on the various influences on the valuation of residential property. Topics covered in this course include: graphing, concepts and types of markets, deed types, editing procedures, matching property characteristics to sales, factoring, trending, market derivatives and the cost approach, cost tables, depreciation, market derivatives and the sales comparison approach, time adjustments, and simple linear regression. This course is an intermediate course. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-128) or the seminar course (#002-859), but not both.

#002-131 Illinois Freedom of Information Act
#002-132 Illinois Freedom of Information Act (Seminar) Level 1/Administration

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) remains an active battleground as a balance is sought between the public’s right to know vs. personal privacy. This course will provide an in-depth look at Illinois FOIA. Topics will include specifics about who must comply, types of records considered “public records”, and what is exempt from disclosure to name a few. Students will discuss recent court cases to show how the courts have weighed personal privacy and the public’s right to know. The course will conclude by looking at case studies of issues relevant to today’s assessment office. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-131) or the seminar course (#002-132), but not both.

#002-133 Residential Factor Analysis Using Statistical Software (Seminar) – Level 3/Residential

This is a hands-on computer class which uses a generic statistical software package, NCSS (Number Cruncher Statistical Software) to analyze an actual set of sales data. This course begins with an overview of basic appraisal models and sales ratio analysis of those models using the statistical software. Topics covered include factor definitions, model building, data analysis, ratio statistics, graphics, stratification and factoring techniques. The goal is to enable the assessment professional to fine tune existing appraisal models and improve uniformity within the jurisdiction. Recommended Prerequisite: A familiarity with sales ratio statistics, as well as, an understanding of the use of a computer.

#002-134 Valuation of Green Buildings (Seminar) – Level 2/Residential

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. Topics discussed include: Appraisal concepts, Three approaches to value and Articles of interest.

#002-135 Valuation of Lodging Properties (Seminar)
#002-136 Valuation of Lodging Properties Level 2/Commercial

Purpose of this workshop is to provide guidance and suggestions on the valuation process of 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.

#002-137 Unique Appraisal Problems (Seminar)
#002-138 Unique Appraisal Problems Level 2/Theory

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. Examples of topics include Mold Contamination, Mercury Contamination, Meth Labs, Snake Infestation, Out of Town Buyers, Metal-Sided Dwellings and Valuation Using Limited Sales.

#002-139 Valuation of Low End and Difficult Residential Properties (Seminar)
#002-140 Valuation of Low End and Difficult Residential Properties Level 1/Residential

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).
Property types to be discussed are: Older, economically challenged areas; Heavy mix of rental properties – do rentals sell for less; Extreme deferred maintenance – physical deterioration; Functional obsolescence; External obsolescence; Old manufactured homes; Manufactured homes connected with each other; Manufactured homes connected to stick-built homes and Other odd or unusual homes.

#002-141 Valuation of Self Storage Properties (Seminar)
#002-142 Valuation of Self Storage Properties Level 2/Commercial

Almost every assessment jurisdiction has some type of self-storage property on their assessment roll. Purpose of this workshop is to provide guidance and suggestions on the valuation process of self-storage properties. The workshop will look at the different classifications of self-storage and how all three approaches to value can be used to value these types of properties. Month-to-month leasing, the impact of new supply, reliance on external demand generators and management intensity all make analysis and valuation of these properties difficult. Also, included is some information on what authorities in the field say lies ahead for the industry.

#002-143 Office Management (Seminar)
#002-144 Office Management Level 1/Administration

This course begins with a detailed review of the property tax system in order to provide an understanding of the environment in which budgeting exists. This is followed by an overview of the different types of budgets, a discussion of the budgeting process, a survey of different types of budgets, a discussion of how to effectively present a budget to the oversight authority, and a case study using an actual township budget. Special Note: Students that have received credit for courses #002-600, #002-608, #002-702, and #002-707 are ineligible for credit for this course.

#002-208 Valuation of High-End or Difficult Residential Properties (Seminar) Level 2/Residential

The purpose of this course 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 in 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. Topics discussed include: USPAP review, general information, cost approach, sales comparison approach, income approach, non-value analysis and article of interest.

#002-250 Basic Assessment Practices, Option 2 – Level Qualify/Qualify

This course is a combination of the Option 1 course, Basic Assessment Practices and Introduction to Mass Appraisal Techniques. It covers issues that are specific to the Illinois property tax system and would not be covered in IAAO curriculum. Special Notes: Basic Option 1 (#002-251) and Basic Option 2 (#002-250) are not interchangeable.

#002-251 Basic Assessment Practices, Option 1 – Level Qualify/Qualify

This is an introductory course and will introduce students to the Illinois property tax system. Topics of discussion include: definition of ad valorem, authority to tax, legislative history, using the Property Tax Code, property assessment cycle, budget and levy side of the cycle, duties and responsibilities of assessing officials, estimating property value, the three approaches to value, managing the assessment office, professional qualifications, and where to get assistance. Special Note: Basic Option 1 (#002-251) and Basic Option 2 (#002-250) are not interchangeable.

#002-252 Property Valuation – Level Qualify/Qualify

This is an introductory course on the three approaches to value: cost approach, sales comparison approach and the income approach. Topics of discussion include: discovery and listing property, value and rights of ownership, types of property, economic principles of value, highest and best use, market value, neighborhoods and neighborhood boundaries, influences on neighborhoods, limitations on boundaries and location, mass appraisal concepts and basic math. Within the sales comparison approach, topics of discussion include: steps in the sales comparison approach, sales criteria for market value, units of comparison, market based adjustments, applying adjustments, determining value by choosing most comparable. Within the income approach, topics of discussion include: overview of the income approach, income and leases, the relationship between rates income, and other variables, gross rent income multipliers. Exercises will be used throughout the course to demonstrate the principles and procedures.

#002-253 Introduction to Mass Appraisal Techniques – Level Qualify/Qualify

This is an introductory course and will focus on mass appraisal techniques. Topics of discussion will include: definitions and use of sales ratio studies, trending, sale chasing, authority to equalize, equalization process and calculation, properties not subject to equalization, exemptions available to Illinois homeowners, Cicuit Breaker program, tax deferral, preferential assessments, leaseholds, instant assessments, disaster assessments, mobile homes, reassessments, and repairs and maintenance. Exercises will be used throughout the course to demonstrate the principles and procedures.

#002-249 CIAO Option 3 Qualifying Course – Level Qualify/Qualify

This course is a home-study course comprised of four courses: Illinois Department of Revenue courses Introduction to Residential Assessments and Introduction to Commercial Assessments and the Illinois Property Assessment Institute courses Property Valuation and Introduction to Mass Appraisal Techniques. It is designed for appraisers who hold a certified Illinois appraisal license.

#002-255 Practical Math for Assessing Officials
#002-778 Practical Math for Assessing Officials (Seminar) Level 2/Statistics

This course focuses on basic mathematical functions that assessment official’s use regularly. Topics covered in this course include: mathematical symbols, decimals, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, round of numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, review of basic algebra, review of basic geometry, and ratios. This is an introductory course. Special Note: Students that have received credit for this course in the home-study format are ineligible for continuing education credit for the classroom format of this course. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-255) or the seminar course (#002-778), but not both.

#002-258 Neighborhood Analysis (Seminar)
#002-259 Neighborhood Analysis Level 2/Residential

Students will learn the characteristics of neighborhoods and how boundaries are determined and influence value. Economic principles and their effect on neighborhoods will be addressed. The various neighborhood valuation techniques and the appropriate methods for analyzing a neighborhood will also be addressed. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-259) or the seminar course (#002-258), but not both.

#002-307 Defending Assessments Before Appeal Agencies
#002-308 Defending Assessments Before Appeal Agencies (Seminar) Level 3/Statistics

This course will assist assessment officials in constructing more relevant responses to appeals filed in their jurisdictions. Reviewing the duties, powers, and pressures placed on review agencies as well as the ramifications of their decisions, will allow assessment personnel to provide review agencies the information they need to justify well-constructed decisions. Court imposed burdens of proof are reviewed for both uniformity and market value cases. The course will provide students numerous procedures that will enable them to mathematically quantify many of the subjective aspects of the appraisal process. Learning how to quantify subjective appraisal processes will allow assessment officials to critically judge the quality of evidence submitted for assessment reductions and enhance chances that assessments will be upheld and not lowered based on non-market, arbitrary and subjective data.

#002-309 Valuation of Fast Food Restaurants (Seminar) – Level 1/Commercial

The purpose of this course is to provide guidance and suggestions on the valuation process of fast food restaurant properties. Information from actual appraisals of fast food properties will be utilized to help illustrate some processes and procedures. Topics discussed include: USPAP review, general information, market value versus value in use, highest and best use analysis, land valuation, the cost approach, the sales comparison approach and the income approach.

#002-314 Developing Winning Arguments for Residential Appeals (Seminar)
#002-315 Developing Winning Arguments for Residential Appeals Level 3/Statistics

#002-425 Precision Data Collection (Seminar) – Level 1/Residential

Accurate data collection is the foundation of a fair property valuation. This course covers the basics of data collection. Topics covered in this course include: general data collection issues, determining data needs, tools and equipment used, describing and coding characteristics, types of data, designing property record forms, actual data collection, elementary computerized considerations and pulling all of the information together. This course involves a field trip, weather permitting. This course is an introductory course.

#002-427 Evaluating Real Estate Appraisals
#002-430 Evaluating Real Estate Appraisals (Seminar) Level 2/Residential

The purpose of this course is to acquaint the student with the knowledge and tools required to make an accurate review of an appraisal. The Preamble and Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice are utilized as a guide to test proper appraisal methodology and reporting procedures. Various aspects of the three approaches to value are covered so that the student has a grasp of some of the less often utilized materials. The second day will deal primarily with case studies where the student can review reports in class with the instructor’s supervision. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-427) or the seminar course (#002-430), but not both.

#002-431 Residential Quality, Condition & Effective Age (Seminar) – Level 2/Residential

This course will review the characteristics that determine 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. Actual construction costs will also be considered as a guide to determining quality. Images will also assist in the discussion on rating homes for condition in relationship to the definition and description for each condition rating. The determination of condition will lead directly into calculations for effective age. 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. Topics discussed include: USPAP review, cost approach, quality, condition, physical deterioration, using effective age, functional obsolescence, external obsolescence and depreciation and effective age extraction.

#002-505 Real Estate Law (Seminar)
#002-994 Real Estate Law Level 2/Theory

This course is designed to familiarize assessing officials with the points of law regarding real property and real estate. An understanding of the basic legal principles involved with respect to real property is essential to the administration of the real property tax. This course presents a summary of those basic legal principles through lecture, discussion problems, and quizzes. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-994) or the seminar course (#002-505), but not both.

#002-602 Appeal Practice & Procedure (Seminar) – Level 2/Theory

Students will review the timing and jurisdictional issues related to the appellate process. Students will become familiar with the three common appeal types and develop an analysis framework for the two most common, uniformity and valuation; which is examined in detail and various analysis tools will be developed. The order of a Property Tax Appeal Board hearing will be discussed, as well as, burdens of proof, standards of review and a discussion of evidence. How to introduce and examine a witness/expert at hearing and understanding the difference between testimony as a witness and as an expert witness will be addressed. The course will conclude with a mock hearing. Special Note: Students that have received credit for the IPAI course entitled “Preparation & Analysis of Evidence for the Appeal Process” are not eligible to receive continuing education credit for this course.

#002-604 Fundamentals of Sales Ratio Analysis
#002-777 Fundamentals of Sales Ratio Analysis (Seminar) Level 1/Statistics

Sales ratio analysis is the fundamental tool assessment officials use to measure if their work is complying with Illinois statutes relative to the assessment of property. This course is designed to familiarize students with the basics of a sales ratio analysis. The course begins with an overview of mathematical concepts and procedures that are necessary to perform and understand a sales ratio analysis. Students will learn how to calculate the ratios, apply appropriated statistical procedures to determine the quality of the assessment and to identify recommendations to improve the current assessment quality. In addition, multipliers and standard deviation will be discussed. A case study will allow students to pull together all the formulas and skills that have been developed throughout the class. This is an introductory course. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-604) or the seminar course (#002-777), but not both.

#002-605 Word Processing Applications for the Assessment Office (Seminar) – Level 1/Administration

#002-611 The Economics of Markets (Seminar)
#002-612 The Economics of Markets Level 1/Administration

The academic discipline that drives all aspects of real estate valuation is economics. Economics is simply a structured and disciplined way of looking at the world that tries to explain how people chose, organize and use limited resources to produce other goods and services. Students will learn to recognize fundamental economic factors at work that will enable the to: understand what money is and how its manipulation can shift the direction of the economy and real estate values; appreciate the role the Federal Reserve plays in our everyday lives; identify and interpret those factors that explain and help predict economic activity and real estate values; learn the effects of inflation and employment have on the general economy; and how the worlds largest economy is managed to ensure continued, steady growth and prosperity. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-612) or the seminar course (#002-611), but not both.

#002-613 Legal Descriptions
#002-775 Legal Descriptions (Seminar) Level 2/Land

This course provides an in-depth, hands-on examination of legal descriptions and its uses within the identification and assessment of taxable property. This is an introductory course. Special Notes: Students that took IPAI Level 1 course #002-603 entitled “Legal Descriptions” are not eligible to received continuing education credit for this course. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-613) or the seminar course (#002-775), but not both.

#002-614 Condominiums
#002-621 Condominiums (Seminar) Level 1/Commercial

This course will provide students with the necessary information for developing accurate and defendable assessments for residential condominiums. Students will discuss various valuation techniques concerning the mass appraisal of condominiums and will work problems relating to land valuation, common elements, and unit value. This course will also familiarize students with the Illinois Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/1 et seq. and students will look in more detail at specific Sections of the Act. In addition, the course distinguishes concepts and trends for additional, specialty forms of housing such as those found in Planned Unit Developments, row houses, and town homes. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-614) or the seminar course (#002-621), but not both.

#002-620 Analysis of Commercial Appraisal Reports
#002-625 Analysis of Commercial Appraisal Reports (Seminar) Level 2/Commercial

This course begins with a review of the income approach to value. This course then concentrates on the types of commercial reports, the body of the report, the valuation of land, the cost approach to value, the income approach to value, and the sales comparison approach as it pertains to commercial reports. The remainder of the course consists of a comprehensive case study. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-620) or the seminar course (#002-625), but not both.

#002-657 Valuation of Residential Land
#002-849 Valuation of Residential Land (Seminar) Level 1/Land

This course is intended to provide students with a comprehensive examination of the valuation of land. The course is designed to provide assessment officials with a variety of options, or techniques, to facilitate land valuation. The course begins by discussing the theory and economics of land and land valuation through an examination of principles, definitions, supply and demand, and units of comparison. The main body of the course is divided into two principle sections, mass appraisal of land and single-property appraisal of land. Within each section, techniques for land valuation are presented that are both useful when sales are sufficient and when sales are scarce. Finally, some related topics such as assemblage, plottage and zoning are discussed, as these processes or concepts can affect value in addition to simple market dynamics. The foundation of any successful assessment system lies in uniform and accurate land values. This course will provide assessment officials with the knowledge and tools to facilitate that process by analyzing market dynamics and studying market behavior. The course provides students with valuation methodologies that will successfully value land in areas with and without adequate sales information for individual properties or thousands of properties. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-657) or the seminar course (#002-849), but not both.

#002-703 Real Estate Transfer Declarations
#002-705 Real Estate Transfer Declarations (Seminar) Level 1/Administration

This course will provide both the novice assessor and the seasoned professional with a review of the basic procedures that should be followed when Real Estate Transfer Declarations are received in their offices. Procedures covered include: most common editing techniques, purpose of edits, component parts of the RETD, relevance to the assessment office, and use of RETD’s in the appraisal process. Students will be exposed to a review of basic real estate concepts including the definition of market value and its origin, the concept of an arm’s length transaction, and it’s importance to statutory compliance for assessments. There will be a short review of the three approaches to value focusing on how the use of RETD’s is necessary to their development. The course will proceed into the realm of practical application and analysis. Topics covered include: file organization, posting data for ease of public access, stratification techniques, market analysis, and statistical analysis. Students will perform simple sales ratio studies including the development of ratios, coefficients of dispersion, and the price related differential. Statistical interpretation and application of the analytical results for reassessment purposes, job evaluation, and public awareness will conclude the course. Special Note: This course is also available in a home-study format. Students that have received credit for this course in the home-study format are ineligible for continuing education credit for the classroom format of this course. Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-703) or the seminar course (#002-705), but not both.

#002-776 Beyond Mapping: GIS in Local Government (Seminar)
#002-822 Beyond Mapping: GIS in Local Government Level 2/Land

The class is broad in scope, attempting to give the students a sense for many of the issues surrounding GIS. This course presents topics ranging from traditional cartographic principles and map design to the role of relational database systems and the underlying geometric principles that support even the most casual use of GIS. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-822) or the seminar course (#002-776), but not both.

#002-818 The Income Approach: A Detailed Examination
#002-858 The Income Approach: A Detailed Examination (Seminar) Level 2/Commercial

This course is intended to provide students with a thorough review of the income approach so that they become very comfortable with the mechanics of the overall process. This course covers each step of the income approach in great detail. The discussion focuses on the income approach from the point of view of what an assessment official needs to know to properly value income property. It also provides the necessary background information to analyze and reconstruct income and expense statements using property specific data, comparable/market data, and regional/national data. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-818) or the seminar course (#002-858), but not both.

#002-819 Public Relations for the Assessment Office (Seminar) – Level 1/Administration

This course will help you develop the skills and abilities you need to work with the media — and other audiences — in your job as assessment officials. You will learn the various elements of effective communication and develop those skills necessary for better day-to-day interaction with the public and your colleagues. Through group interaction students will have the opportunity to practice their newly learned skills.

#002-821 The Income Approach: Assessing Real Property Investments
#002-829 The Income Approach: Assessing Real Property Investments (Seminar)
Level 3/Commercial

This course explains the importance of investing and reviews the alternatives available to investors, besides real estate, that competes for the investment dollar. Compound interest tables and the six functions of a dollar will be discussed and the affects and power of compounding. Additional topics include; what a capitalization rate represents (risk aspects) and introducing the key determinants or factors investors consider when analyzing real estate as an investment option; analysis on types of leases, tenant mix, terms of the leases and variations in risk across property type as a means of understanding how these factors affect the price paid by investors and concludes with by looking at the numerous techniques that are used to develop capitalization rates. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-821) or the seminar course (#002-829), but not both.

#002-850 Legal Implications of Employment Practices
#002-852 Legal Implications of Employment Practices (Seminar) Level 1/Administration

This course begins with a historical survey of the evolution of human resources. Several theories, principles, and definitions are covered to allow the student to achieve a level of competency in this important field. The course introduces several laws that affect employment in the assessment field and discusses the pitfalls that can be avoided, ensuring that legal challenges will be reduced to a minimum. Knowing the laws that affect good business practices and the consequences of not following these laws will enlighten the student as to the realities of the present-day job market. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-850) or the seminar course (#002-852), but not both.

#002-872 Real Estate Applications Using the HP-12C Calculator (Seminar)
#002-873 Real Estate Applications Using the HP-12C Calculator Level 3/Statistics

This course is intended to give students a basic working knowledge of the HP-12C calculator. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to solve practical assessment and real estate problems. This course assumes you have a basic understanding of real estate and lending terminology. No prior use of the HP-12C in necessary. Students must bring a HP-12C with them to class. Special Note: All students must bring an HP-12C calculator with them to class. Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-873) or the seminar course (#002-872), but not both.

#002-920 Marshall & Swift Commercial Cost Approach (Seminar) – Level 1/Commercial

This course will provide the student with a basic understanding of the Marshall & Swift Cost Services Manual. Topics of discussion will include: quality grading and what determines quality, the Calculator and Segregated Cost methods and estimating depreciation from both market extraction and from the Marshall & Swift tables. Students will have an opportunity to use the various sections from the Marshall & Swift cost manual to calculate many sample problems to determine the value of various commercial and industrial properties. At the conclusion of the course, students will have learned how to apply Marshall’s valuation techniques to various types of properties. Special Note: Students who successfully completed courses 020-950, 020-951 or 020-952 will not be eligible for credit for this course.

#002-921 Valuing Property affected by Environmental Laws & Regulations (Seminar) Level 3/Land

Valuing contaminated commercial or industrial property will probably be one of the most interesting, and, perhaps, challenging moments that an assessing official or appraiser will ever have. This course will provide an introduction to the arguments that a contaminated property owner will make that it has a lower value than it would have were it clean, introduce examples of information the owner will use to support that argument and present the ways contamination has been addressed, not always successfully, in the three approaches to value. Environmental laws that affect value will first be reviewed. By the end of the course, students will be working with case studies based on actual cases in Illinois and from other states to gain a better understanding of how to deal with the issues presented by contaminated property.

#002-922 Analyzing the Appraisal of Fuel Stations & Convenience Stores (Seminar) Level 3/Commercial

Students will become familiar with the market dynamics that shape the design and operation of retail fuel stations and attached convenience stores and carwash facilities. Key to understanding the contributory factors shaping market value are the students’ familiarity with industry trends, property functionality, forces of competition, and the retail business operation of petroleum-dispensing stores.

#002-949 Assessment of Oil & Coal (Seminar) – Level 2/Land

This course addresses the responsibilities of the assessment official in valuing oil and coal. Oil and coal schedules are reviewed, and the methods used to calculate oil and coal are also covered. An underground and surface tour of an active mine are conducted. Students should bring “work clothing” with them to class. Special Note: Student who took the IPAI Oil & Gas course will receive continuing education credit for this course.

#002-954 Residential Construction (Seminar) – Level 2/Residential

This course will familiarize students with basic house types, quality grades, construction terminology and how construction quality grade specifications, techniques and materials determine quality. The various residential construction phases from site preparation through completion of the building will be illustrated with slides of the construction of a residential building. The advantage and disadvantage of certain building materials will also be discussed and many building products will be available for examination. When practical, a field trip will be part of this course.

#002-957 Sales Ratio Analysis Using Spreadsheet Software (Seminar) – Level 2/Statistics

This course takes advantage of the math functions and graphing capabilities of Microsoft Excel. During the course, students will build a sales ratio template for use in their own office. Even though the course uses Microsoft Excel, the concepts demonstrated are quite applicable to other spreadsheet programs. This course introduces the student to sales ratio studies and spreadsheet programs. It is not intended to be an exhaustive treatment of either subject. Recommended Prerequisite: A general working knowledge of a personal computer and basic spreadsheet function. Special Notes: Students that have received credit for the IPAI course entitled “Sales Ratio Analysis with Lotus 1-2-3” are not eligible to receive continuing education credit for this course.

#002-996 Cadastral Mapping (Seminar)
#002-997 Cadastral Mapping Level 2/Land

This course gives students an overview of cadastral mapping techniques, which will prepare assessment officials to create a map to an aerial photo base. It is recommended that students have a basic understanding of land records, legal descriptions, and mapping, prior to attending class. Special Note: Students that have received credit for the IPAI course entitled “Sidwell Cadastral Mapping Workshop”, course (#002-996), are not eligible for credit for this course. Special Note: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-125) or the seminar course (#002-996), but not both.