IFA designation (source: National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers/American Society of Appraisers) 

IFA – Member is a designation conferred to a residential appraisal specialist who was a Member of the National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers (NAIFA).  The NAIFA has merged with the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) and the "IFA" designation now is utilized by the ASA to specifically identify the expertise of professional appraisers who have adhered to the expertise and professional requirements of the former organization.  A dual designation is considered a high honor in the profession.    

Background - NAIFA was founded in 1961 as a nonprofit professional association of real estate appraisers. Today, NAIFA has chapters throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico.  The Association raised the standards of the appraisal profession, gaining recognition for its members as qualified professionals, and to promote fellowship among appraisers. 

Requirements for the designation include the following - 

Experience:

Received credit for 2,500 hours of appraisal experience in no less than two [2] years.

Demonstration Report:

Submitted an original and one copy of a Self-Contained Appraisal Report that communicated a Complete Appraisal of a one [1] to four [4] unit residential property.  Also submitted an Experience Rating Form (ERF), which was approved by the National Admissions Committee. 

Because of the rigorous education and experience requirements and commitment to adhere to strict industry standards and a professional code of ethics, you can be confident an ASA designated appraiser who has also achieved the IFA designation will provide you with the very highest quality residential appraisal service.