All course numbers have a prefix which denotes the course provider.

002 denotes the Illinois Property Assessment Institute
003 denotes the International Association of Assessing Officers
095 denotes the ARCGIS courses

Course # 002-110/Exam

INTRODUCTION TO THE SALES COMPARISON APPROACH TO MARKET VALUE
7.5-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 1 – Theory
7.5-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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.

Course # 002-125/Exam

This course introduces students to basic income producing property appraisal terms and procedures. This course builds upon basic appraisal theory and shows how the three approaches to value are applied in real life situations. The course starts with an overview of the market forces that influence buyers and sellers in income property. With this basic understanding in place, the course concentrates on the application of all three approaches to value for income property. Case studies demonstrating practical use of the appraisal methods in an assessment office are used extensively. This course is an introductory course and is appropriate for assessment officials with little or no exposure to commercial assessments.

Special Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-125) or the seminar course (#002-130), but not both.

Course # 002-126/Seminar

COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Commercial
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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.

Course # 002-127/Seminar

CASE STUDIES IN THE APPEAL PROCESS
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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.

Course # 002-128/Exam

MARKET FACTORS IN RESIDENTIAL VALUATION
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Residential
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-128) or the seminar course (#002-859), but not both.

Course # 002-130/Seminar

This course introduces students to basic income producing property appraisal terms and procedures. This course builds upon basic appraisal theory and shows how the three approaches to value are applied in real life situations. The course starts with an overview of the market forces that influence buyers and sellers in income property. With this basic understanding in place, the course concentrates on the application of all three approaches to value for income property. Case studies demonstrating practical use of the appraisal methods in an assessment office are used extensively. This course is an introductory course and is appropriate for assessment officials with little or no exposure to commercial assessments.

Special Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-125) or the seminar course (#002-130), but not both.

Course #002-131/Exam

ILLINOIS FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT
7.5-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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

Course #002-132/Seminar

ILLINOIS FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT
7.5-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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

Course #002-133/Seminar

RESIDENTIAL FACTOR ANALYSIS USING STATISTICAL SOFTWARE
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Prerequisites: A familiarity with sales ratio statistics, as well as, an understanding of the use of a computer.

Course #002-201/Exam

BUDGETING FOR THE ASSESSMENT OFFICE
7.5-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Notes: ***Available in a home-study format only.*** Students that have received credit for courses #002-600, #002-608, #002-702, and #002-707 are ineligible for credit for this course.

Course #002-250/Exam

BASIC ASSESSMENT PRACTICES-OPTION 2
CIAO Required Course for Option 2

This course is a combination of the Option 1 courses, 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 and Basic Option 2 are not interchangeable.

Course #002-251/Exam

BASIC ASSESSMENT PRACTICES-OPTION 1
CIAO Required Course for Option 1

This course will introduce students to the Illinois property tax system. Included are hands-on exercises with the Illinois Property Tax Code and the responsibilities of assessment officials. Participants will cover the basics of office management and learn where to find further assistance from public and private sources.

Special Notes: Basic Option 1 and Basic Option 2 are not interchangeable. Although it is not mandatory, it is recommended that students take the required courses in this order: #002-251, #002-252, #002-253.

Course #002-252/Exam

PROPERTY VALUATION
CIAO Required Course for Option 1

This is an introductory course on the three approaches to value: cost, sales comparison and income. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the duties required of assessment officials, such as discovering and listing property.

Special Notes: Although it is not mandatory, it is recommended that students take the required courses in this order: #002-251, #002-252, #002-253.

Course #002-253/Exam

INTRODUCTION TO MASS APPRAISAL TECHNIQUES
CIAO Required Course for Option 1

This course will focus on mass appraisal techniques such as sales ratio studies and will include an explanation of multipliers. Exemptions granted to Illinois property owners will be discussed, as well as other special assessment issues.

Special Notes: Although it is not mandatory, it is recommended that students take the required courses in this order: #002-251, #002-252, #002-253.

Course #002-255/Exam

PRACTICAL MATH FOR ASSESSMENT OFFICIALS
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 - Statistics
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate (Only in classroom format)

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 Notes: 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.

Course #002-259/Exam

NEIGHBORHOOD ANALYSIS
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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.

Course #002-425/Seminar

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.

Course #002-427/Exam

EVALUATING REAL ESTATE APPRAISALS
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 - Residential
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-427) or the seminar course (#002-430), but not both.

Course #002-430/Seminar

EVALUATING REAL ESTATE APPRAISALS
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Residential
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-427) or the seminar course (#002-430), but not both.

Course #002-505/Seminar

REAL ESTATE LAW
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Theory
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-994) or the seminar course (#002-505), but not both.

Course #002-602/Seminar

APPEAL PRACTICE AND PROCEDURES
15 Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Notes: 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.

Course #002-604/Exam

FUNDAMENTALS OF SALES RATIO ANALYSIS
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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.

 
Course #002-605/Seminar

This class focuses on the fundamentals of word processing – the computerized production of letters, reports, and other documents. Topics covered in this course include: managing files, producing and printing documents, editing documents with special features, spell and grammar check, help features, mail merge, and an introduction to graphics. This course is an introductory course.

Recommended Prerequisites: A basic understanding of the operation of a personal computer

Special Notes: Students may receive credit for only one “Introductory” computer course during their career.

Course #002-613/Exam

LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Land
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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.

Course #002-620/Exam

ANALYSIS OF COMMERCIAL APPRAISAL REPORTS
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Commercial
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-620) or the seminar course (#002-625), but not both.

Course #002-625/Seminar

ANALYSIS OF COMMERCIAL APPRAISAL REPORTS
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Commercial
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-620) or the seminar course (#002-625), but not both.

Course #002-657/Exam

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-657) or the seminar course (#002-849), but not both.

Course #002-703/Exam

GETTING THE MOST FROM RETD’S
7.5-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Notes: 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.

Course #002-705/Seminar

GETTING THE MOST FROM RETD’S
7.5-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Notes: 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.

Course #002-818/Exam

THE INCOME APPROACH: A DETAILED EXAMINATION
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Commercial
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-818) or the seminar course (#002-858), but not both.

Course #002-819/Seminar

PUBLIC RELATIONS FOR THE ASSESSMENT OFFICE
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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.

Course #002-821/Exam

THE INCOME APPROACH: ASSESSING REAL PROPERTY INVESTMENTS
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 – Commercial
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-821) or the seminar course (#002-829), but not both.

Course #002-822/Exam

BEYOND MAPPING: GIS IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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.

Recommended Prerequisites: A familiarity with parcel mapping and property descriptions, as well as, a working knowledge of basic PC systems and desktop software

Course #002-829/Seminar

THE INCOME APPROACH: ASSESSING REAL PROPERTY INVESTMENTS
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 – Commercial
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-821) or the seminar course (#002-829), but not both.

Course #002-849/Seminar

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-657) or the seminar course (#002-849), but not both.

 
Course #002-850/Exam

THE LEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-850) or the seminar course (#002-852), but not both.

Course #002-852/Seminar

THE LEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-850) or the seminar course (#002-852), but not both.

Course #002-858/Seminar

THE INCOME APPROACH: A DETAILED EXAMINATION
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Commercial
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-818) or the seminar course (#002-858), but not both.

Course #002-859/Seminar

MARKET FACTORS IN RESIDENTIAL VALUATION
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Residential
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-128) or the seminar course (#002-859), but not both.

Course # 002-920/Seminar

MARSHALL & SWIFT COMMERCIAL COST APPROACH
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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.

Course # 002-921

VALUING PROPERTY AFFECTED BY ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS & REGULATIONS
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 - Commercial

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

Course # 002-922

ANALYZING THE APPRAISAL OF FUEL STATIONS & CONVENIENCE STORES
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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.

Course #002-949/Seminar

ASSESSMENT OF OIL & COAL
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Notes: Student who took the IPAI Oil & Gas course will receive continuing education credit for this course.

Course #002-954/Seminar

RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Residential
15-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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.

Course #002-957/Seminar

SALES RATIO ANALYSIS USING SPREADSHEET SOFTWARE
15-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, 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 Prerequisites: A general working knowledge of a personal computer and basic spreadsheet functions

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.

Course #002-994/Exam

REAL ESTATE LAW
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Theory
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate (Classroom format only)

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 Notes: Students may receive continuing education credit for either the exam course (#002-994) or the seminar course (#002-505), but not both. Students may not receive credit for this course if they have received credit for this course in the home-study format.

Course #002-997/Exam

CADASTRAL MAPPING
15-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Land
18-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

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 Notes: 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.

Course #003-112/Exam

INCOME APPROACH TO VALUATION II (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 – Commercial
30-Hours Pre-licensure Credit, Illinois E, Office of Banks & Real Estate

“A continuation of introductory course 102, this course emphasizes advanced concepts in the income approach to value. Application of the compound interest tables in appraisal practice is taught. Comparison of the various capitalization methods and techniques is covered by the lecture and problem solving. This course presents in detail the contemporary capitalization methods of mortgage equity and discounted cash flow analysis.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

Course # 003-117/Exam

FUNDAMENTALS OF REAL PROPERTY APPRAISAL – (IAAO COURSE)
Required for CIAO, Option 2, Illinois Department of Revenue
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 1 - Theory

A Basic appraisal course for assessors, course 117 emphasizes the theory and techniques of the cost and sales comparison approaches to value. Students review technology, basic appraisal and economic principles, general principle of land valuation, the assessment function, and the mass appraisal process.

 Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

 
Course # 003-127/Exam

INCOME APPROACH TO VALUATION – (IAAO COURSE)
Required for CIAO, Option 2, Illinois Department of Revenue
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 - Commercial

A continuation of introductory course 117, this course emphasizes advanced concepts in the income approach to value. Application of the compound interest tables in appraisal practice is taught. Comparison of the various capitalization methods and techniques is covered by lecture and problem solving. This course presents in detail the contemporary methods of mortgage equity and discounted cash flow analysis.

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

 
Course #003-300/Exam

FUNDAMENTALS OF MASS APPRAISAL (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2– Theory
28-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

“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.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

Course #003-310/Exam

APPLICATIONS OF MASS APPRAISAL FUNDAMENTALS (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 - Theory

“This residential and commercial application course builds on the theories and concepts taught in Course 300. Course 310 utilizes case studies for the demonstration of key concepts in a real-world setting. The course will provide the student with practical application of the tools and techniques presented in Course 300.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Recommended Prerequisites: #003-300

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

Course #003-311/Exam

RESIDENTIAL MODELING CONCEPTS (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 – Residential
30-Hours Pre-licensure Credit, Illinois E, Office of Banks & Real Estate

“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, 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.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Recommended Prerequisites: #003-300

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

Course #003-312/Exam

COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL MODELING CONCEPTS (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 – Commercial
30-Hours Pre-licensure Credit, Illinois E, Office of Banks & Real Estate

“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, gross and net income analysis, capitalization rate development, model specification and calibration and review and maintenance.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

Course #003-400/Exam

ASSESSMENT ADMINISTRATION (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Administration
28-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

“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 process of planning, directing, coordinating, organizing, budgeting, and evaluating toward 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.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Course #003-402/Exam

TAX POLICY (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 – Theory
28-Hours Continuing Education Credit, Office of Banks & Real Estate

“This course deals with policies involving the levy and collection of taxes. It is designed for assessment administrators and students of taxation who are interested in understanding tax policy formation. It is intended to teach skills that will allow assessment administrators to have more effective input in the development of tax policies.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student.

Course #003-600/Exam

PRINCIPLES AND TECHNIQUES OF CADASTRAL MAPPING (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Land

“Course 600 serves as an introduction to property ownership mapping with an emphasis on the preparation and use of assessment maps. Topics covered include ownership data gathering, map sources, mapping equipment, base maps, conveyances, acreage calculation, mapping administration and parcel identification systems. A comprehensive set of case problems covering the metes and bounds survey system and the rectangular survey system is included in the course material. Emphasis is placed on reading, plotting, and interpreting various types of legal descriptions of land.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student. This course is listed as course #003-106 by the Illinois Department of Revenue on all official transcripts.

Course #003-601/Exam

ADVANCED MAPPING (IAAO COURSE)
30-Hours Exam Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 – Land

“Course 601 provides a comprehensive program of study, applying the knowledge, skills and abilities taught in course 600 on a more advanced level. A comprehensive set of case problems is utilized to enhance your learning experience.” (IAAO Benefits & Services – 2000)

Special Notes: Due to the fact that materials must be purchased for this course, students that cancel their registration within two weeks of the course date will be required to purchase the course materials regardless of the fact that they do not attend. The materials will be sent to the student. This course is listed as course #003-530 by the Illinois Department of Revenue on all official transcripts.

Course # 095-102/Seminar

ARCGIS I
16-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 2 – Land***

This two-day course introduces participants to ArcGIS™ and provides the foundation for becoming a successful ArcView®, ArcEditor™, or ArcInfo™ user. Participants learn how to use ArcMap™, ArcCatalog™, and ArcToolbox™ and explore how these applications work together to provide a complete GIS software solution. The course covers fundamental GIS concepts as well as how to create, edit, and work with georeferenced spatial data. Attendees should be experienced using the Windows operating system; prior experience with GIS or desktop mapping technologies is not required.

Special Note: Students will not automatically receive credit for this course. Students must write the Illinois Department of Revenue to determine if they are eligible to receive credit.

Course # 095-103/Seminar

ARCGIS II
24-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 3 - Land

This two-day course introduces participants to ArcGIS™ and provides the foundation for becoming a successful ArcView®, ArcEditor™, or ArcInfo™ user. Participants learn how to use ArcMap™, ArcCatalog™, and ArcToolbox™ and explore how these applications work together to provide a complete GIS software solution. The course covers fundamental GIS concepts as well as how to create, edit, and work with georeferenced spatial data. Recommended Prerequisite: ARCGIS Special Note: Students will not automatically receive credit for this course. Students must write the Illinois Department of Revenue to determine if they are eligible to receive credit

Course #099-101/Seminar

USING THE INTERNET
7.5-Hours Seminar Credit, Illinois Department of Revenue, Level 1 – Administration

This course is designed to teach beginning internet users the basics of internet and e-mail use. Topics that are covered include: accessing the internet using a browser, uniform resource locators, search engines, using search engines, the domain name system, setting up an e-mail account, finding real estate information on the internet, finding state and federal information on the internet, and setting up your own web site. Students should be familiar with the operation of a personal computer prior to attending this course. This is an introductory course.

Special Notes: Students may receive credit for only one “Introductory” computer course during their career.