Appraisers On Purpose

Michael Hobbs
  • 4.7 (14)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Appraisers on Purpose Podcast showcases inspiring appraisers and professionals from the industry who are leaders in their field. How did they get to where they are? What have they learned along the way? And what do they do now for their teams, their clients, and the industry? Your host is real estate investor, seriel entrepreneur, and appraiser Michael Hobbs.

  1. MAR 24

    Charles Baker | The Truth About “Lucky Breaks” in Real Estate Appraisal

    What if the market isn’t the problem—waiting is? In our latest “Appraisers on Purpose” podcast episode, seasoned appraiser Charles Baker challenges a common belief: success in this profession comes from timing, luck, or waiting for the market to turn. Instead, he argues, the most resilient appraisers do not sit back and hope for better conditions, they create momentum through action. For Charles, growth is not about getting a lucky break. It is about staying visible, building relationships, adapting quickly, and continuing to move forward even when the market feels uncertain. Beyond that, Charles offers a hopeful reminder that opportunity still exists for appraisers who are willing to think differently. Whether it is sharpening your professional identity, embracing new tools without losing your judgment, or taking ownership of your next move, his message is clear: we have more control than we think. For Charles, this is not just mindset advice; it is a practical path to building a stronger, more durable appraisal business in any market. Tune in to this episode of “Appraisers on Purpose” to hear Charles Baker’s encouraging perspective on creating your own opportunities and building a career that does not depend on luck.

    1h 3m

  2. MAR 18

    Patrick Nessenthaler | Why Appraisers Have the Skills Everyone Else Borrows

    Your appraisal skills can take you further than you think.In our latest “Appraisers on Purpose” podcast episode, seasoned valuation expert and entrepreneur Patrick Nessenthaler challenges a limiting belief: appraisal is just a narrow career path.Instead, he argues, the skills appraisers build every day are the very same skills that power success across the wider real estate industry. For Patrick, expertise in valuation, underwriting, and property-level economics is not a ceiling, it’s a launchpad. These capabilities can open doors to leadership, investment, innovation, and entirely new ways of thinking about opportunity.Beyond technical skill, Patrick champions conviction. Rather than waiting for permission to grow, pivot, or build something bigger, he encourages appraisers to recognize the real value of what they already know.For Patrick, this isn’t just an inspiring idea; it’s a hopeful path forward for appraisers who want to expand their impact, future-proof their careers, and think beyond the report.Tune in to this episode of “Appraisers on Purpose” to hear Patrick Nessenthaler’s encouraging perspective on how appraisers can turn their expertise into bigger opportunities in an evolving real estate landscape.Curious where appraisal is heading? Start here: https://www.pahroo.com Connect with Michael Hobbs and follow PahRoo for more conversations like this: LinkedInFacebook Instagram X (Twitter)TikTok

    1h 4m

  3. FEB 24

    Anthony Legotti | The Main Street Advantage

    Growth isn’t a geography problem, it’s a systems problem.In our latest “Appraisers on Purpose” podcast episode, appraiser and entrepreneur Anthony Legotti challenges a common assumption: the way to grow is to simply cover more territory.Instead, Anthony argues, growth doesn’t come from expanding your map, it comes from building systems and people that can deliver quality at scale. Licensing in more states is just the surface move. The real advantage is the repeatable process underneath it: clear workflows, consistent review standards, and a team that can execute without everything bottlenecking through the owner.Beyond operations, Anthony shines a spotlight on a hopeful opportunity many appraisers overlook: Main Street. He talks about the steady demand in “Main Street millionaire” properties, smaller multifamily, small retail/office/industrial and related assignments that can be less dependent on lender volatility.For Anthony, this isn’t just a growth tactic; it’s a pathway to building a durable appraisal business, one that’s resilient, scalable, and positioned where real communities keep transacting.If you’re dealing with a complex valuation or want a trusted team in your corner, visit https://www.pahroo.com/ and reach out. We’re here to help.Tune in to this episode of “Appraisers on Purpose” to hear Anthony Legotti’s practical, optimistic approach to building a stronger appraisal business in today’s market.Want more “Appraisers on Purpose” insights?Like the episode, follow PahRoo, and join the conversation here:LinkedIn (Michael Hobbs): https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhobbs/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pah.roo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pahroo/TikTok: http://tiktok.com/pahrooappraisal/

    46 min

  4. FEB 17

    James Dorey | When a “Ghost Report” Haunts Your Value

    What if the old appraisal is the real risk?In our latest “Appraisers on Purpose” podcast episode, seasoned appraiser James Dorey challenges a quiet assumption that causes real chaos: the prior appraisal is always the safest reference point.Instead, he argues, the old report can become the most dangerous “comp” in the building. Not because it’s evil, but because it anchors everyone’s expectations before your evidence ever gets a fair shot. James shares how review work exposes this pressure in the real world, and how we can respond with calm, credible support that protects both the assignment and the client’s decision-making.Beyond that, James delivers a hopeful message about longevity in this profession. From building confidence early on to shifting into review work, he shows that adapting doesn’t mean lowering standards, it means designing a career that stays strong through changing markets, workloads, and life itself.For James, this isn’t just about defending your value conclusion; it’s a path to becoming the steady professional others rely on when stakes are high and timelines are tight.Tune in to this episode of “Appraisers on Purpose” to hear James Dorey’s encouraging perspective on writing reports that lead the room not follow it. And if you’re dealing with a complex appraisal scenario (or want a second set of eyes on a tricky situation), visit https://www.pahroo.com/ — we’re here to help.

    59 min

  5. FEB 17

    Mitchell Simonson | The Appraiser’s Path to Growth Beyond Fee Compression

    What if appraisal didn’t have to lead to burnout, but to freedom?In our latest Appraisers on Purpose podcast episode, commercial appraiser and entrepreneur Mitchell Simonson challenges a quiet assumption many appraisers carry: that long hours and constant pressure are just part of the job.Mitchell offers a hopeful alternative. Drawing from decades of experience, he explains how strong systems, intentional training, and business thinking can transform appraisal from an exhausting grind into a sustainable, fulfilling career.Rather than staying confined to traditional lending work, Mitchell shares how expanding into areas like litigation, tax appeal, and portfolio assignments opens the door to higher-level work and greater professional confidence. He also reflects on how thinking like an investor sharpens valuation judgment, even if ownership isn’t the end goal.For Mitchell, this evolution isn’t about working harder. It’s about thinking differently, designing a practice that supports growth, flexibility, and long-term relevance in a changing industry.If you’re navigating complex valuation challenges or looking for trusted appraisal expertise, visit https://www.pahroo.com/ — we’re here to help when clarity matters most.Tune in to this episode of Appraisers on Purpose to hear Mitchell Simonson’s thoughtful, experience-driven perspective on building an appraisal career that actually works for your life, not against it.Like what you’re hearing?Follow PahRoo Appraisal & Consultancy and join the movement of appraisers who think differently:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhobbs/Facebook: @pah.rooInstagram: @pahrooTikTok: @pahrooppraisalX (Twitter): @pahrooChallenge the norms. Lead the industry.

    1h 2m

  6. FEB 4

    Luke Motto | Marketing for Appraisers: Why Content is the New Referral

    What happens when a young appraiser stops waiting for work and builds it instead?In this episode of Appraisers on Purpose, rising appraiser Luke Motto shares how he turned digital visibility into real opportunity, proving that bold action beats tradition every time.Instead of waiting on AMCs or riding out the market downturn, Luke started creating LinkedIn content, publishing a newsletter, and testing out video. One newsletter post landed him a major client. Suddenly, he was appraising hundreds of homes for institutional investors without sending a single cold email.But that’s just the start.Luke uses AI to streamline his workflow, letting him handle massive appraisal volume solo. Rather than fear tech, he leverages it. Rather than fear obscurity, he builds a brand.Luke’s story is a refreshing reminder that hope in this industry isn’t naïve, it’s strategic. And for appraisers willing to think differently, the path forward is wide open.If you're navigating a complex appraisal scenario and need a reliable expert, we’re here to help: https://www.pahroo.comTune in to hear how Luke Motto is building the next-gen appraisal practice—and why the future favors the bold.Stay inspired. Stay informed.Like, follow, and connect with PahRoo across our social platforms for more stories, insights, and behind-the-scenes moments:https://linkedin.com/in/michaelhobbs/https://facebook.com/pah.roo/https://www.instagram.com/Pahroo/https://www.tiktok.com/@pahrooappraisalhttps://x.com/Pahroo

    45 min

  7. JAN 28

    Jo Traut | Why Appraisers Should Run Toward the Mess

    How a flooded basement, a filing cabinet, and a flashlight led Jo Traut into a thriving appraisal career.In this inspiring episode of “Appraisers on Purpose,” Jo Traut reveals how unexpected chaos and relentless curiosity can lead to a career that truly fits.Jo didn’t come from real estate. She wasn’t looking for appraisal. But after buying a water-logged foreclosure, rebuilding it piece by piece, and becoming obsessed with ROI, she knew there was something more.Her path wasn’t paved, it was patched together with passion, persistence, and a willingness to solve real problems. And when her future mentor’s office was drowning in disorganized chaos, Jo stepped in, organized his entire business, and earned her entry into the field.Today, she’s a respected voice in luxury relocation appraisals, educator, and former chief appraiser.For Jo, success wasn’t about credentials, it was about contribution.And her story is a masterclass in building your niche from the ground up.If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or curious about new appraisal paths, this episode is your permission to go create your own.Listen now to hear Jo Traut’s refreshing take on how appraisers can thrive with grit, integrity, and a little creative problem-solving.Visit https://www.pahroo.com — we’re here to help.Like what you heard? Follow us on LinkedIn for appraisal insights: https://linkedin.com/in/michaelhobbs/Join our community for updates, episode drops, and behind-the-scenes content on Facebook: https://facebook.com/pah.roo/Watch short clips, reels, and visual highlights from each episode via our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Pahroo/Short-form videos featuring notable moments and insights from the show through TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pahrooappraisalFollow us for quick insights, episode announcements, and real-time conversations on X (Twitter): https://x.com/Pahroo

    1h 1m

  8. JAN 21

    Ron Stickelman | Why Credit Unions Are the Hidden Goldmine for Modern Appraisers

    He grew a top appraisal firm in three states without a single sales call.In this episode of Appraisers on Purpose, industry veteran Ron Stickelman shares the surprising truth behind his decades-long success in valuation: thriving appraisers don’t work harder, they work smarter.Instead of clinging to outdated solo workflows and competing for the same clients, Ron took a different path, one built on collaboration, systemization, and choosing the right partners. After growing a top 10 privately-owned appraisal firm across three states, Ron didn’t just exit , he gave the company to his team and built something new.His next act? Founding a credit union–focused AMC that became the fastest-growing business unit inside a national firm. For Ron, credit unions aren't just underserved they're the future. And he shows exactly why.Ron’s story is a masterclass in what happens when appraisers stop working alone, focus on workflow efficiency, and align with clients who value long-term relationships.Whether you’re overwhelmed, underpaid, or just unsure how to grow, this episode will give you hope and a blueprint.If you’ve got a complex appraisal problem (or just need help making confident real estate decisions), visit us at https://www.pahroo.com — we’re here to help.============Like what you heard? Follow us on LinkedIn for appraisal insights: https://linkedin.com/in/michaelhobbs/Join our community for updates, episode drops, and behind-the-scenes content on Facebook: https://facebook.com/pah.roo/Watch short clips, reels, and visual highlights from each episode via our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Pahroo/Short-form videos featuring notable moments and insights from the show through TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pahrooappraisalFollow us for quick insights, episode announcements, and real-time conversations on X (Twitter): https://x.com/Pahroo

    49 min
See All (129)

4.7
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

The Appraisers on Purpose Podcast showcases inspiring appraisers and professionals from the industry who are leaders in their field. How did they get to where they are? What have they learned along the way? And what do they do now for their teams, their clients, and the industry? Your host is real estate investor, seriel entrepreneur, and appraiser Michael Hobbs.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Hobbs
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    129
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Michael Hobbs
  • Show Website
    Appraisers On Purpose

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