PAREA stands for Practical Applications of Real Estate Appraisal. It is a virtual training alternative for aspiring appraisers in lieu of the traditional in-the-field experience model also known as the supervisor/trainee model.

The PAREA program allows for experience credit to be applied towards licensed and certified residential credentials. The North Carolina Appraisal Board requires those applicants seeking the certified residential credential through PAREA, to submit an experience log with a minimum of 15 demonstration residential appraisal reports. Trainee registration is not applicable to the PAREA program. You can find the exact amount allowed for each level within the current AQB Criteria.

Applicants who have successfully completed an approved PAREA program may apply for licensure or certification in North Carolina beginning January 1, 2026.

You can find a list of PAREA providers on The Appraisal Foundation’s PAREA page here.(https://appraisalfoundation.org/pages/parea) You will need to research PAREA providers as each set their own admission process and may have additional requirements.

Yes, The Appraisal Foundation offers a Pathways to Success Scholarship which is administered by the Appraiser Development Initiative (ADI). You can apply for a scholarship here.(https://appraisalfoundation.org/pages/parea)

You are able to enroll in PAREA; however, you will not be able to transfer any of your trainee experience hours.

Yes. At a minimum, you will need to complete all the qualifying education classes for the type of license or certification you are applying for. You will need to check with your PAREA provider to see if they have any additional requirements prior to enrolling.

PAREA programs do not utilize supervisors; however, they do assign mentors. Mentors must meet certain guidelines as outlined in the AQB Criteria.

Applicants will need to check with their PAREA provider to determine how long access to the program is granted and whether any extensions may be provided.

Once you successfully complete the PAREA program, you will be provided with a certificate of completion. You may then apply for licensure or certification using the licensure through PAREA application form. Your application will be reviewed and if approved, you will receive your exam ticket for the national exam. Once you pass the national exam and submit the exam pass letter, your license or certification will be issued, granted all requirements have been met.