SamTheTutor

Here you'll find books and other resources that I recommend. Follow the links if you wish to purchase any of them and receive my discount rate from places like REcampus, Marshall and Swift, and Amazon.com!
Books I Recommend:
	Fundamentals of Real Estate Appraisal 8th ed by Ventolo and Williams. Covers every area of the appraisal profession, with great examples and exercises! Used in all of my appraisal classes!
	Field Guide to American Houses Highly recommended!! I use this extensively. Copious illustrations and photos of American houses throughout the centuries!
	Questions & Answers To Help You Pass The Real Estate Appraisal Exams, Third Edition Textbook A great text by Fisher ( and co-authored by Tosh), this is a highly recommended review of real estate appraisal concepts!
	The Appraisal of Real Estate (0679M) by Appraisal Institute. These people wrote the book!
	The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal The source authority for real estate appraisal definitions. Highly recommended!
	Environmental Considerations In Real Estate Textbook Nice introduction to a complex subject.
	Environmental Issues in Your Real Estate Practice Textbook Deals with specific issues like radon, mold, lead, etc.
	Houses: The Illustrated Guide To Construction, Design And Systems, 3rd Edition Textbook Premier book about design, styles and structure for residences.
	Income Property Appraisal Textbook This is written by Jeffrey Fisher, a prominent financial author. Highly recommended!
	Income Property Valuation Textbook Co-authored by Jeffrey Fisher, also highly recommended!
	Investment Analysis For Appraisers Textbook How to look at an income-producing property from an investor's standpoint.
	The Upstart Small Business Legal Guide Recommended for those of you who want to an appraisal business!
	Introduction to Financial Math using the HP12C calculator Good intro the the HP12C!
	Professional Real Estate Problem Solving Using the HP 12C Another nice intro to using the HP12C.
	Building Construction Illustrated, 2nd Edition Handy guide to construction terminology.
	Appraising Residential Properties Highly recommended for residential appraisers, or those aspiring to become residential appraisers.
	Up and Running in 30 Days by Carla Cross. Designed for new real estate salespersons, provides lots of valuable tips and tricks of the trade.
Books on Tape:
	Language Of Real Estate Audio CDs, 5th Edition A great way to learn real estate terminology on the go!
	Language Of Real Estate Audio Tapes A great way to learn real estate terminology on the go!
	Questions & Answers To Help You Pass The Real Estate Appraisal Exams, Version 2.0 CD-ROM CD-ROM version of the great book by the same name!
Other Handy Appraisal Tools :
	Disto Plus The DISTO Plus is the new standard for laser distance measuring, with all the features of the popular DISTO Classic 5, AND Bluetooth wireless technology. This allows it to send your measurements to a bluetooth enabled Pocket PC or laptop. Includes: Mini-Grip bag with velcro strip, 2 AA Batteries, Mini-CD with PlusDraw and PlusXL software, Operation Manual, Quickstart Manual, Safety Instructions, Hand Loop, Holster. DOES NOT INCLUDE POCKETPC. Pythagoras Function (Very important for appraisers!)
	Disto Classic 5 Leica DISTO classic 5 has been the industry standard since its introduction. The restyled keyboard and many additional features make all measurements easier to handle. The built-in telescopic viewer enables quick and easy measurements over long distances. With a range from 8 inches up to 650 feet, and accuracy of +/- 0.1 inch, a built-in bubble level, integrated calculator functions, storage of the last 15 values, and the ability to indirectly measure heights and distances, the DISTO classic is indispensible for contractors, engineers, appraisers and insurance claims adjusters. Pythagoras Function(Very important for appraisers!)
	Disto Classic 3 The Leica DISTO classic 3 took the world by storm when it was introduced, and set the standard for laser measuring devices. These factory refurbished units are an economical choice for users that want the time saving features of the the Classic series, including the pythagorean function and addition and subtraction of measured values. Features include a range from 8 inches up to 330 feet, accuracy of +/- 0.1 inch, integrated calculator functions, storage of the last 15 values, minimum and maximum tracking, continuous measurement, and the ability to indirectly measure heights and distances (pythagorean function). These refurbished DISTO classic 3 models are an ideal way to enter the accurate, time saving world of laser measuring without giving up the features you want. Dimensions 6.5 x 2.6 x 1.7 in. Weight 13 oz. Warranty: 2 years from date of purchase. Included with the DISTO classic 3: Manual, Hand Loop, Holster, and 4 AAA Batteries Pythagoras Function (Very important for appraisers!)
	Disto Lite 5 Leica DISTO lite is the small, robust, base model for modern measurements. Reliable, accurate, precise and easy to use. With a range from 8 inches up to 650 feet, accuracy of +/-0.1 inch, a built in bubble level, and an illuminated display, distance measurements, as well as area and volume calculations, are a snap. Dimensions: 5.6 x 2.9 x 1.8 in. Weight: 11.1 oz. Warranty: 24 months from date of purchase Included with the Disto Lite: User Manual, Hand Loop, Holster, and 2 AA batteries.
	Trimble SP HD 150 Well known for their innovative features and rugged dependability, Spectra Precision Lasers are used by more construction professionals around the world than any other brand. The handheld HD150 provides fast and accurate distance measuring in a variety of applications. Outdoor measurement range without a target plate is significantly better than competitive products.
	HP12C Financial Calculator The premier financial calculator for appraisers! This is the one I use. I keep one in my office, and carry one in my catalog case!
	HP12C Platinum Color Same as above, but cool platinum color.
	Stanley 34-793 200' Open Reel Fiberglass Long Tape Rule A must for any appraiser. Durable, long, with decimal increments for easy area calculations.
Great Online Stores:
	Amazon.com The greatest online bookstore for a reason. Shop there now for the best prices and selection around!
	Marshall and Swift I use Marshall and Swift for my cost estimating needs. For 5% savings on all Marshall and Swift cost products, use my promotional code EDUCSTT -- make sure the code is entered in the promotion box on your order form!