Appraiser Spotlight: Kasey Baker on Growth, Innovation, and the Future of Hybrid Appraisals

The appraisal profession is built on expertise, judgment, and trust and it’s evolving quickly as UAD 3.6 drastically changes the landscape. Appraisers who are willing to learn, adapt, and step into new challenges are helping move the industry forward, one assignment at a time. Kasey Baker is one of those professionals. 

Kasey recently reached an important milestone in her career by earning her certification, a meaningful achievement that reflects both her commitment to the work and her steady focus on doing it well.  

“This milestone was inspired by my commitment to continuous learning and delivering high-quality work,” Kasey shared. “It represents both personal growth and professional development, and it reinforces my dedication to excellence in my field.” 

That mindset—quietly motivated, growth-oriented, and grounded—has guided Kasey’s career from the very beginning. 

Finding Her Way Into the Profession 

Kasey’s path to becoming an appraiser started with early exposure to real estate. Growing up with a mother who worked as a realtor, the real estate industry was always present, familiar, and approachable. Later, when Kasey decided to make a career change, the field felt familiar and exciting. 

The turning point came when a friend who was already an appraiser offered to mentor her. In an industry where mentorship can often be the most difficult hurdle to overcome, that opportunity proved pivotal. 

“That mentorship opened the door for me,” she said. “I’ve been in the field ever since.” 

That foundation of learning and support shaped how Kasey approaches her work today. She’s comfortable asking questions, values practical experience, and remains open to feedback, all traits that continue to serve her well as the profession evolves. 

Stepping Into the Hybrid Appraisal Pilot 

Recently, Kasey took on a new challenge by participating full time in a Hybrid Appraisal Pilot at Opteon.  

A hybrid appraisal is a combination of a traditional appraisal and a modern, technology-driven approach that uses third-party property data alongside automated valuation methods, with some level of on-site inspection. This method aims to enhance efficiency while maintaining sufficient oversight. 

Kasey was selected to help test the efficiency of a hybrid appraisal product supported by the Jaro technology and workflow. The pilot required her to step away from her usual schedule and dedicate several weeks entirely to the project.  

For Kasey, the experience offered a different perspective on appraisal work.  

“I thought the program was well organized and put together very well,” she said. “Each appraisal provided a substantial amount of information, which was helpful for learning and understanding the process.” 

While the work environment was different and came with the adjustment of working fully digitally rather than out in the field, Kasey found value in the experience. She noted that while working with original appraisal dates presented a challenge, the overall structure and efficiency of the workflow stood out. 

“The workflow was efficient, and additional work was available when requested.” 

Practical Insight from a Practicing Appraiser 

One of the most valuable aspects of the pilot was the opportunity for practicing appraisers to provide direct, real-world feedback on the technology and workflows being tested. From Kasey’s perspective, the platform appeared thoughtfully developed and ready for broader use. 

“The technology seemed up to par and developed over time,” she said. “The main remaining need was input from practicing appraisers.” 

Adapting to the new process came naturally to her, largely because the core appraisal work remained familiar. The biggest shift was simply staying at the computer rather than heading out to property inspections herself. 

“My feedback mainly focused on identifying items that weren’t working properly or noting where additional information was needed to complete the assignment,” Kasey explained. Her observations helped surface practical considerations that only come from hands-on experience, small but meaningful refinements that can make a difference in real-world application. 

Serving Customers More Efficiently 

From Kasey’s point of view, hybrid appraisals offer a valuable option when applied thoughtfully. While she emphasizes that more complex assignments will always require on-site inspections, she sees clear benefits for simpler valuations when sufficient information is available upfront. 

“In my opinion, hybrid appraisals provide a faster way to complete appraisals,” she said. “For quicker and more straightforward valuations, a hybrid appraisal works well.” 

The most immediate benefit for customers, she noted, is improved turnaround time, an increasingly important factor in today’s market. Hybrid models, when used appropriately, help balance speed and quality without compromising professional standards. 

Collaboration Behind the Scenes 

Although Kasey didn’t work directly with clients during the pilot, collaboration remained central to the experience. She stayed connected with teammates through Teams and email and emphasized how accessible and supportive everyone was throughout the process. 

“Everyone was consistently available, which was very helpful whenever questions arose,” she said. “The support made the process easy.” 

That sense of connection allowed Kasey to stay focused on the work while navigating new workflows and contributing meaningfully to the pilot’s success. 

Looking Toward the Future of Appraisal 

Kasey has seen firsthand how quickly technology has reshaped appraisal work and she expects that pace to continue. From automation and advanced analytics to AI-driven tools, she believes technology will play an increasingly influential role in improving efficiency, accuracy, and data accessibility. 

“Just a few years ago, we relied on measuring tapes, lasers, pencils, and paper,” she said. “Now, tools like iPads allow us to do nearly everything digitally, even measuring from inside the house.” 

While she jokes that “AI is taking over the world,” her perspective remains balanced and grounded in experience. Technology, she believes, is a powerful tool, but one that works best when paired with professional judgment and accountability. 

A Commitment to Excellence and Trust 

In her day-to-day work, Kasey strives for excellence through attention to detail, thorough analysis, and clear communication. She prioritizes accuracy and timeliness, ensuring her appraisals are both reliable and delivered efficiently. 

“I stay open to feedback and new technologies that can enhance my efficiency and accuracy,” she said. “I want my work to consistently meet or exceed expectations.” 

Trust and transparency are equally important to her approach. Kasey emphasizes honesty, adherence to standards, and clear communication with managers and teammates. 

“If I don’t know the answer, I make sure to find the correct one,” she said. “I don’t guess or make something up.” 

Beyond the Workday 

Outside of work, Kasey enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors, especially under the Arizona sun. Hiking, going to the gym, and practicing yoga help her recharge. She also participates in roller derby, an outlet she finds both challenging and fun, and enjoys spending time on positive activities involving animals. 

A Career Built on Growth 

When reflecting on her journey and offering advice to others considering appraisal, Kasey emphasizes patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn. 

“Use slower times to improve and build your skills,” she said. “It’s a rewarding career that grows with your effort and commitment.” 

Kasey Baker’s recent accomplishments—her certification, her contributions to the Hybrid Appraisal Pilot, and her steady professional growth—are a testament to what thoughtful, engaged appraisers bring to the profession. Her work reflects care, adaptability, and a genuine respect for the responsibility that comes with the role. It’s that kind of dedication that continues to move appraisal forward. 

Are you interested in growing your career in appraisals? View career opportunities at Opteon >>