What the class covers
The California Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers documents the scope of practice for each license level. For the Certified Residential level, it covers any one-to-four unit residential property, and non-residential property appraisals with a transaction value up to $250,000. A Certified General appraiser may appraise all property types. A licensed residential appraiser has lower limits on value and complexity.
What the class limits
A Certified Residential appraiser is not permitted to appraise non-residential property above the stated value under that class. If your property is larger or of a different type, you may need a Certified General appraiser. That is a legal scope and not a judgment about skill.
How to confirm it
Search the state record by name or license number.
Read the license level, status and dates.
Match the level to your property.
Ask the appraiser to confirm the scope in writing.
The record for Randy M. Sonns lists a Certified Residential license, active, with a current term ending July 18, 2028, observed on October 8, 2026. Check it yourself rather than relying on this page.
What to ask beyond the class
The class says what the appraiser may value. It does not say how the appraiser works. Ask about the scope of work, the date, who will rely on the report and how it is delivered. The guide to questions to ask an appraiser lists them.
Where to read more
For the credential walk-through, see what makes a residential appraiser certified. For benefits across purposes, see benefits of hiring a licensed appraiser. For the service, see residential appraisal in Los Angeles.
Frequently asked questions
What does a certified residential appraiser appraise?
One-to-four unit residential property, and non-residential property up to a $250,000 transaction value, according to the state.
Can a licensed residential appraiser do my job?
Possibly, within that class's limits on value and complexity. Ask which class your property needs.
Is the class a quality ranking?
No. It defines the scope of property an appraiser may value.
How do I find the class?
On the state record, in the license level field.