An appraiser is required to follow which ethical guidelines at all times while conducting appraisals?

The correct answer pertains to the USPAP Guidelines, which stands for the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. These guidelines are established by the Appraisal Standards Board of the Appraisal Foundation and set forth the ethical and performance standards for appraisers in the United States. Following USPAP ensures that appraisers uphold integrity, impartiality, objectivity, and ethical behavior in their work, which is essential for maintaining trust and reliability in the appraisal process.

USPAP encompasses various principles that guide appraisers in their professional conduct, ensuring they adhere to ethical practices while valuing properties. This adherence is foundational in supporting professional credibility and compliance with legal standards.

While local laws and professional codes of conduct may also play a role in guiding appraisers' actions, they do not have the same level of comprehensive recognition and enforcement as USPAP. Appointment standards, while relevant to the management of professionals, do not specifically address the ethical guidelines that must be followed during appraisal engagements. Thus, USPAP Guidelines are the definitive framework for ensuring ethical appraisal practices.