We had an overwhelming response to this year’s Buzzy Awards. Participation more than tripled compared to our inaugural year, and we are incredibly grateful to the appraisal community and our Buzz subscribers for showing up the way they did. Your engagement is what makes these awards meaningful. Today, we are excited to officially announce the winners.
Each of these individuals and organizations represents excellence, innovation, and leadership across the valuation industry. In the months ahead, we will feature in-depth interviews with each winner on our podcast, The Appraisal Buzzcast. For now, here is a look at this year’s standout professionals, as reflected through your nominations and votes.
Appraiser of the Year: Pete Fontana
Pete Fontana is one of the few fee appraisers deeply involved at both the state and national levels. His commitment to the profession is unmatched. (Pete received more individual votes than any other nominee across all categories.)
AMC or Appraisal Firm of the Year: Accurate Group
Accurate Group continues to set the standard for teamwork, positivity, and innovation. Their consistent focus on delivering high-quality service and forward-thinking solutions clearly resonated with voters.
Lender of the Year: North State Bank
North State Bank was the first lender to embrace UAD 3.6 and place an appraisal order using the new process. Their willingness to lead during a major industry transition earned strong support from the community.
Instructor of the Year: Josh Walitt
Joshua exemplifies what it means to be a transformative educator in the appraisal and compliance space. His instruction is not only deeply informed by regulatory expertise and industry nuance, but also delivered with clarity, a genuine commitment to elevating his audience and some humor. In a field where clarity and credibility are paramount, Joshua Walitt stands out as a trusted voice and a true educator. His impact is measurable, his delivery is masterful, and his dedication is unmatched. He is more than deserving of this recognition.
Software of the Year: SFREP
SFREP was the first appraisal software to successfully complete a UAD 3.6 appraisal. As a legacy platform, their willingness to adapt and lead during a period of change demonstrates a strong commitment to the future of the industry.
Appraisal Content Creator of the Year: Market Moves with Jeff Morley and Mark Verrett
Jeff and Mark bring strong insight and thoughtful discussion to the industry. Their dynamic back-and-forth and timely topics keep professionals informed and engaged.
Rising Star of the Year: Courtney Daniels
Courtney Daniels moved to the Baltimore area and went through the ADI program. Ended up getting a job with Chase Bank, where he is pursuing the appraiser dream.
Mentor of the Year: Sergio Johnson
For the past few years, Sergio has set aside his own career ambitions and put his whole heart and soul into the ADI. He is out there changing lives every day, finding people who have a desire to get into this industry but just need the door opened.
Congratulations again to all of our winners. We look forward to celebrating with you in person at the official Buzzy Awards ceremony during Valuation Expo in Las Vegas, August 16 through 19. Thank you to everyone who participated in nominating and voting. We could not do this without you. Stay tuned for exclusive interviews with our winners on upcoming episodes of The Appraisal Buzzcast.
Share this article
