Guvmnt Job

So we all have expectations, life is full of them until we become enlightened (which I am working on but NOT yet there of course).  I have been very fortunate to have many cities, counties, several state and federal agencies, and one big state agency (GDOT) as clients over my 25+ odd years.  I always imagined working INSIDE would be like the basement of the many GDOT offices around Georgia.

However, Perspective is Everything.

About four weeks ago, after much wailing, moaning and gnashing of teeth, I agreed to take a position as a review appraiser for District Two of the Tennessee Department of Transportation.  There was soooo much going for it - great boss, great boss's boss, location in CHA, they pay me regularly, more experience as a review appraiser, learning the TN D2 market, meeting new appraisal professionals, and so on.  There was also a lot about it that worried me - not hanging out with Katherine and Thor every day, worries about Maggie at school and me not available, a cubicle (for crying out loud), lots of rules, TONS of forms (and I do mean tons), potential loss of time for my appraisal practice in GA, you get the picture.

However, TDOT sort of hunted me down.  Then numerous people whose opinion I highly regard suggested it was a terrific opportunity and a great next step in my appraisal career.  So when TDOT finally called to make the offer, I slept on it and said yes!

So far I have found that, no, my cell phone does not work inside the building, and yes I am in a cubicle almost every day.  BUT, everyone in my new Region Two Right of Way office seems to be dedicated and professional in their respective jobs.  The appraisers I have met are knowledgeable, humble, and entertaining, and I can see I will learn a lot from them.  My boss is hardworking, helpful, supportive, and encouraging.  TDOT is even considering adopting the Christian Thor Thoreson method of photographing comparables (first take a picture of the plat/location map of the comp and THEN take a photograph(s) of the comp - way easier to identify three weeks later in the office - particularly when it is land).

And best of all, I am ALREADY learning how to be a better valuation expert.  I have implemented in my own appraisal practice things this week that I learned  and appreciate very much the opportunity!

Thank you Universe for opening the door.

sometimes there is value in something unexpected

Today I began a new adventure.  One telephone call sometimes leads to so much. Since my valuation career began in 1986 with Harvey Hooks & Associates, I have only REALLY been self-employed. (In the interest of full disclosure, I did a gig for a local Chattanooga brokerage managing for 12 months, but not as an appraiser).

About eighteen moths ago, I spoke with a much respected colleague and mentor about my next step as an appraiser. I had done some review work, but believed that further experience and more full time review appraising would make me a better appraiser and expert witness.  I asked him how I might go about that.

Fast forward to a conversation with the right of way procurement folks at Tennessee DOT and with their encouragement, I applied for a job, in Chattanooga of all places, as a staff review appraiser.  My major concern was continuing my appraisal and litigation support practice. They said 'no problem' and offered me the position.

One nights' sleep was all I needed to accept. I look forward to this new challenge. Everyone I have met so far at TDOT has been great!  

I am grateful for the opportunity.