2019 Winter Newsletter

PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATION SPOTLIGHT: MARK BECKER, MAI, CAE, CFE

Name: Mark Becker

County: Pinellas

Position: Assistant Director, Commercial Appraisal

Briefly describe your appraisal/assessment experience.

I have been in the appraisal field since 1987, starting out in residential appraising for approximately one year before transitioning to com- mercial property appraising. I decided to join the Property Appraiser’s Office as a commercial/retail appraiser in 2014.

Mark Becker, MAI, CAE, CFE

Why did you pursue the CAE designation?

I have been fortunate to work for Property Appraisers, both Pam Dubov and Mike Twitty, that have encouraged their employees to pursue IAAO designations. As a part of my position, I thought it would be beneficial to obtain my CAE designation and to set an example to the staff to obtain their designations. It would be difficult for me to compare the requirements/process of the two designa- tions, due to the amount of overlap/credit received for already having the MAI designation while pursuing the CAE designation. I believe the MAI designation requires a few more income capitaliza- tion courses compared to the CAE designation requirements. However, the CAE designation re- quires a greater understanding of mass appraisal techniques (modeling, statistical analysis, etc.).

What was one of the biggest challenges you faced while pursuing your CAE designa- tion?

The residential case study exam was the most difficult course and final exam. However, with group study and review encouraged by the Property Appraiser, I was able to adequately prepare for the test.

What advice/suggestions would you give to someone considering an IAAO designa- tion?

I would tell them to take advantage of the opportunities provided to you by your employers to take the required classes in a timely manner. The comprehensive exams become more difficult if you de- lay taking them.

What is your favorite vacation and/or hobbies you enjoy?

I enjoy vacationing in the mountains of North Carolina, on the beaches of Florida and cruising on ships with drink packages. As far as hobbies, I enjoy tackling home improvement projects and watching college football (FSU- not so much this year).

Who is your favorite (all time) college football player? Why?

My favorite college football player is Warrick Dunn as he epitomizes class. He has overcome great obstacles in his life (losing his mother while in high school). He also has given back to his communi- ty by furnishing houses for those less fortunate through Habitat for Humanity.

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Winter 2019 Newsletter of the FCIAAO