Chelsea T. Buchholtz

This strategic plan outlines the direction for the Texas Real Estate Commission and the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board. Its primary purpose is to protect Texas consumers by efficiently regulating real estate professionals and appraisers through upholding high standards in education, licensing, and enforcement, thereby facilitating economic growth and opportunity. The plan is structured around three key goals: expediently ensuring standards of regulated industries, efficiently enforcing regulations, and effectively communicating with all stakeholders.

The board discussed the impact of artificial intelligence on the appraisal industry and regulatory agency, including how it is utilized for risk assessment. Reports were provided on agency operations, the transition to the new license management portal, and call hold time progress. Additionally, the board reviewed proposed rules regarding foreign ownership of property in Texas, upcoming internal audit plans, and white paper findings on appraiser experience requirements. Future administrative planning for the agency's relocation to a new office building was also addressed.

The meeting commenced with the pledging of allegiance to the flag and the state flag. Key discussions included addressing excused board member absences, noting one member was expecting a child and another was potentially delayed. The board also heard opening remarks from the chair following a productive workshop. A significant portion of the meeting involved a detailed presentation by Pearson View regarding appraiser examinations, content outlines, testing center locations (including the addition of Alpine), and the examinee experience, including score reporting and fees. Staff reports included year-end data (as the fiscal year ended in August) and updates on regulatory matters, such as the upcoming ASC audit in September 2026 and the mandatory implementation of a new valuation bias and fair housing course starting in January 2026. Further updates covered the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB) exposure draft regarding criteria changes, staff achievements in the state employee charitable campaign, and extensive details regarding the upcoming launch of the new Real Estate and Appraiser License Management Portal (REALM portal) on December 10th. The transition process includes a system downtime window from December 2nd to December 10th, during which license management tools will be inaccessible. License holders were advised to complete any necessary renewals before December 2nd.

The meeting included discussions on excusing absent board members, public comments regarding disciplinary actions against appraisers, and enforcement matters. The board addressed concerns about the display of disciplinary actions on the website and considered a motion for rehearing in a certification matter.

The meeting included discussions on various topics, such as the ratification of the official record from a previous board meeting, public comments on non-agenda items, and an executive session to receive advice of counsel concerning pending or contemplated litigation, settlement offers, and enforcement actions. Additionally, there was a discussion and possible action regarding modifications of board orders related to a specific complaint and a proposal for a decision from the State Office of Administrative Hearings concerning an application denial.