Becoming a Certified General Appraiser: How to Prepare for and Pass the Comprehensive Exam
If you're serious about advancing your career in real estate valuation, earning your Certified General Appraiser (CG) designation is essential. The path includes years of education and experience—but it all culminates in one major hurdle: the Comprehensive Exam. In this blog, we’ll show you exactly how to prepare for and pass the exam so you can achieve this respected credential.
Step 1: Understand the CG Designation Requirements
To become a Certified General Appraiser, you must:
Complete required qualifying education
Accumulate appraisal experience hours
Pass the Appraisal Institute's Comprehensive Exam
Comply with USPAP and state licensing laws
The exam validates your ability to apply appraisal principles to complex commercial, industrial, and income-producing properties.
Step 2: Know the Exam Structure
The Comprehensive Exam is split into four modules:
General Concepts
Cost Approach and Highest & Best Use (HBU)
Sales Comparison Approach
Income Capitalization Approach
Each is a timed, computer-based test scheduled separately through Pearson VUE within a 30-day exam window. You must pass all four to achieve certification.
Step 3: Build a Realistic Study Timeline
Planning is everything. Here's a sample timeline for 10 weeks:
Weeks 1–2: General Concepts – Focus on terminology, ethics, and foundational theory
Weeks 3–4: Cost & HBU – Work on cost formulas and HBU case analysis
Weeks 5–6: Sales Comparison – Practice adjustments and comparables
Weeks 7–8: Income – Master direct cap, DCF, and investment metrics
Weeks 9–10: Review all modules and take timed mock exams
Keep your study sessions focused, limit distractions, and review previous errors.
Step 4: Master Each Module With the Right Tools
General Concepts
Review definitions, USPAP principles, and valuation theory
Use flashcards for daily refreshers
Apply your knowledge to real appraisal case studies
Cost & HBU Module
Learn cost estimation and depreciation
Practice applying HBU's four tests
Write concise HBU justifications
Sales Comparison Module
Use paired sales to create adjustments
Understand bracketing, qualitative analysis, and reconciliation
Build adjustment grids and explain your logic
Income Capitalization Module
Solve problems using direct cap and DCF
Analyze rent rolls, expenses, and NOI
Apply yield and discount rates in value calculations
Step 5: Simulate Test Conditions Weekly
At least twice per week, simulate a real exam by:
Setting a timer to match exam durations
Completing a module with no notes or interruptions
Reviewing missed questions and understanding why
Practicing with only tools allowed on test day
These rehearsals reduce anxiety and improve pacing.
Step 6: Prepare for Test Day Like a Pro
On test day:
Get a good night’s sleep
Arrive early with your ID and supplies
Wear comfortable clothes
Flag difficult questions and return later
Don’t panic—stay focused and use your time wisely
A calm mindset and structured approach are your best assets.
Step 7: Leverage the Best Resources
Use tools designed specifically for the CG exam:
Appraisal Institute’s Comprehensive Exam Guidebook
Practice exam workbooks and flashcards
McKissock or CompuCram online test platforms
Study groups or mentors with CG designation experience
Combining resources ensures balanced preparation.
Becoming a Certified General Appraiser is one of the most valuable achievements in your real estate career. With structured preparation, deep understanding of each module, and a consistent study plan, you'll be ready to pass the Comprehensive Exam and earn the CG designation. Start now, stay committed, and take each step with purpose—success is within reach.