Which of these situations requires a state-licensed appraiser?

A state-licensed appraiser is required in situations involving federally related transactions, particularly when a lender seeks an appraisal as part of the financing process. Federal regulations mandate that appraisals for loans backed by government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) or federally-insured entities must be performed by a licensed or certified appraiser to ensure accuracy, professionalism, and adherence to uniform standards. This requirement helps protect both the lender and the borrower by providing an objective valuation of the property in question.

In comparison, the other scenarios do not necessitate a state-licensed appraiser. A buyer's agent providing information to clients about property prices or a real estate professional seeking comparables for listings do not involve formal appraisals but rather rely on market analysis and comparable sales. Similarly, homeowners wishing to understand their home's value for pricing purposes can utilize various resources, including automated valuation models or informal estimates, without needing a licensed appraisal. Hence, the only scenario that explicitly requires a licensed professional is the one involving the lender and a federally related transaction.