Press Releases – ACI – The Appraiser's Choice

ACI2010™ Prepares ACI Appraisers for the Future

Bea Acs — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 15:00:00 GMT

New release Imports MLS Data to the 1004MC, Introduces ACI365™ Webforms

March 29, 2010, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, announced today the release of ACI2010™. This latest release provides ACI appraisers with new features, time-saving statistical tools, and online forms designed to increase efficiency and enhance workflow.

ACI2010™ is available for download at no additional charge to existing ACI appraisers with an active service agreement. Highlights of the new release include:

Market Conditions Addendum eService*—Import MLS data into an ACI Analytics™ plug-in for the 1004MC Addendum. After the MLS data has been downloaded, the appraiser can arrange and import the results directly into the 1004MC Addendum.
File Sync*—Post appraisal reports from a local computer to an ACI365™ account and edit appraisal reports online from home, on the road, or in the field using ACI’s Webforms.
JUMP Navigation Feature—Using the JUMP feature, quickly navigate from page to page with a thumbnail preview.
Paste Images to Addendum—Cut and paste images directly into the addendum for increased visual impact in appraisal reports.

In addition to these ACI2010™ highlights, the latest release includes an enhanced spell check tool, additional comps for the Vacant Land and GPAR Recertification of Value forms, and several updates to ACI’s eServices, which provides a connection to the industry’s largest national appraisal companies.

“ACI2010™ marks the beginning of a promising year of enhancements for ACI appraisers,” said George Opelka, senior vice president, ACI. “We’re on a very aggressive path to keep ACI appraisers at the forefront of the industry. ACI appraisers can expect to see many new features, and as always, additional product choices during the next 12 months.”

ACI is offering introductory savings on ACI2010™. Interested parties can contact ACI Sales at 1-800-234-8727 or visit www.AppraisersChoice.com for more information.

* ChoiceCredits™ apply

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community has gained industrywide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions are tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

Headquartered in Palm Coast, Florida, ACI’s management and development team garner the type of experience coveted by decision makers responsible for bringing synergy to their daily workflows and processes. ACI is a division of Verisk Analytics.

About Verisk Analytics

Verisk Analytics is a leading provider of risk assessment solutions to professionals in insurance, healthcare, mortgage lending, government, risk management, and human resources. Using advanced technologies to collect and analyze billions of records, Verisk Analytics draws on vast industry expertise and unique proprietary data sets to provide predictive analytics and decision-support solutions in fraud prevention, actuarial science, insurance coverages, fire protection, catastrophe and weather risk, data management, and many other fields. In the United States and around the world, Verisk Analytics helps customers protect people, property, and financial assets.

ACI Offers New ChoiceCredits™ Program to Help Appraisers Control Costs

Bea Acs — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:00:00 GMT

ACI ChoiceCredits™ program offers increased opportunity for appraisers to save while trying new products

March 17, 2010, Palm Coast, FL—ACI announced today the release of its new ChoiceCredits™ program. ChoiceCredits is designed to help appraisers try new products without the need to purchase a new license for each individual product.

ChoiceCredits is a flexible, pay-per-use service that provides access to Microsoft Bing™ Location Maps, FloodInsights Floodmaps, Pictometry^® Aerial Imaging, ACI’s PDF Import Service, and Bluebook AppraiserBASE™. Each of the services has an associated cost per click that ranges from one to ten credits, depending on the product or service.

ACI clients are able to purchase ChoiceCredits in lots ranging from 500 to 5000, with attractive price breaks as volume increases. Clients can use ChoiceCredits for any of the services within the price model and can mix-and-match services as they see fit.

“We designed ChoiceCredits in keeping with our Appraiser’s Choice theme,” said Dave Roberts, president, ACI. “Appraisers often would like to explore new services but are hesitant to take on the expense of another annual license fee. ChoiceCredits removes the need for individual licensing of consumable products, like mapping and imaging services, and allows the freedom of exploring new products that can be shared across an entire office.”

Additionally, ACI ChoiceCredits work with ACI365’s new long-term storage feature that allows an appraiser to save work files on ACI365’s servers. And, ChoiceCredits never expire, so clients can buy in large volume and keep credits in an ACI account for use when they are needed.

ACI is offering introductory savings on ChoiceCredits. Interested parties can contact ACI Sales at 1-800-234-8727 or visit www.AppraisersChoice.com for more information.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations the company services. The ACI client base features many of North America’s premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

ACI is a division of ISO, a leading source of information about risk. Since 1971, ISO has been a leading source of information about property/casualty insurance risk. For a broad spectrum of commercial and personal lines of insurance, the company provides statistical, actuarial, underwriting, and claims information; policy language; information about specific locations; fraud-identification tools; and technical services. ISO serves insurers, reinsurers, agents and brokers, insurance regulators, risk managers, and other participants in the property/casualty insurance marketplace. ISO is a subsidiary of Verisk Analytics. For more information, visit www.iso.com and www.verisk.com.

ACI 1004MC Webinar Reaches Five Thousand Appraisal Companies

Bea Acs — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Thousands of valuation professionals benefit from Online Sessions hosted by
ACI Compliance Director Rich Heyn, SRA

July 30, 2009, Palm Coast, FL. ACI Compliance Director Rich Heyn, SRA, has trained a milestone 5,000 appraisal firms on how to use the new Fannie Mae 1004 Market Conditions Addendum. Based on tremendous interest from the appraisal community, ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, will continue to offer the 1004MC webinar throughout the summer.

The ACI webinar runs 60 to 90 minutes long and provides practical end-user information from an appraiser’s perspective on the new 1004MC form. The interactive format provides a productive environment for the course material, including:

the rationale behind the new form
the circumstances under which the form is required
the common myths and misunderstandings associated with the form
what to do if the amount of data is insufficient for meaningful market analysis
how to efficiently complete the form in a manner that is meaningful to the client

Heyn, who has educated thousands of appraisers classroom style throughout the United States as an Appraisal Institute instructor, said, “I was very pleased with the effectiveness of the interactive, web-delivered format as an educational device. The ‘live’ format allows me to personalize the presentation and fine-tune the material ‘on the fly,’ and the attendees can submit pertinent observations and questions via live chat. The webinar was well received by our clients, and I’m presently working on the next topic. The webinars on industry-specific topics complement our applications-based classes such as Report Essentials, Learning ACI Sketch™, Track Essentials, and Research Essentials, which our training group offers weekly, free-of-charge.”

To further serve the ACI, Day One, and United Systems client base, ACI recently launched an interactive, online calendar to host its training. Clients can view available classes, register, and choose from a variety of features, including text and e-mail reminders, the ability to automatically add ACI training events to a personal calendar using the iCal feature, and sign up for alerts on upcoming classes.

“We received extremely positive feedback from clients who enjoy the virtual classroom setting. This value-added service allows clients to learn from subject-matter experts at their convenience without the expense of travel. The industry expertise available at ACI is unique, and we are pleased to be able to share this knowledge with our client base,” said Dave Roberts, President, ACI.

Clients interested in ACI’s online education program can visit www.AppraisersChoice.com/training to view and register for available sessions.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations the company services. The ACI client base features many of North America’s premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

ACI is a division of ISO, a leading source of information about risk. ISO provides data, analytics, and decision-support services to professionals in many fields, including insurance, finance, real estate, health services, government, human resources, and risk management. The company draws on vast expertise in actuarial science, insurance coverage, fire protection, fraud prevention, catastrophe and weather risk, predictive modeling, data management, economic forecasting, social and technological trends, and many other fields. To meet the needs of diverse clients, ISO employs an experienced staff of business and technical specialists, analysts, and certified professionals. In the United States and around the world, ISO helps customers protect people, property, and financial assets.

ACI Supports Fannie Mae’s Appraisal Delivery Initiative

Bea Acs — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:30:00 GMT

ACI format identified as an accepted appraisal delivery format

July 14, 2009, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading technology innovator for the valuation industry, has announced its support of Fannie Mae’s Announcement 09-14. The announcement requires lenders to submit appraisal reports electronically for all loans sold to Fannie Mae beginning March 1, 2010. The appraisal delivery initiative benefits consumers and the industry by mitigating the effects of poor appraisal quality and appraisal fraud.

Based on Fannie Mae’s Announcement 09-14, the ACI format has been identified as one of the accepted standards. Compliant with the new Fannie Mae requirement are ACI2009™ (ACI’s flagship appraisal software), and Lighthouse™ (ACI’s universal appraisal delivery program that enables appraisers to open, review, and deliver appraisals created by many of the industry's appraisal software programs).

ACI’s appraisal format has been adapted and recognized as a delivery standard by many of the nation’s largest appraisal firms and vendor management companies. The ACI format provides security and the ability to quickly and efficiently perform appraisal reviews using ACI’s PAR Logic® rules engine — one of the industry’s most widely used underwriting and fraud mitigation platforms.

“ACI’s technology is continually designed with a forward-thinking methodology, allowing our clients to easily comply with the industry as changes occur. In this case, our clients will not have to purchase any new technology or worry that their reports are not compliant when the new requirement goes into effect,” said
ACI President Dave Roberts.

About ACI

ACI Offers Free Online Training to Thousands of Appraisers on the New 1004MC Addendum for ACI, NOVA, and Appraisal Studio

Bea Acs — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 14:08:00 GMT

ACI, NOVA, and Appraisal Studio Appraisers Attend Online Sessions Hosted by Rich Heyn, SRA, ACI’s Director of Compliance

April 2, 2009, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, announced today that its complimentary online training session, “Learn to Use the New 1004 Market Conditions Addendum,” has been attended by thousands of clients over the past month.

In March 2009, shortly after acquiring the assets of Appraisal.com, Day One® Software, and United Systems® Software, ACI began offering the 1004 Market Conditions Addendum for its ACI, NOVA™, and Appraisal Studio™ products.

The 1004MC form is available for download in ACI2006™, ACI2009™, ACI Appraisal Studio™, and ACI NOVA™. Clients who do not yet have the form installed may perform a web update or call ACI Sales at 1-800-234-8727 to obtain the form.

The complimentary 1004MC training session, presented by ACI Director of Compliance Rich Heyn, SRA, provides practical end-user information from an appraiser’s perspective on the new 1004MC form, which is required for use by all appraisers beginning April 1, 2009.

Heyn, who has educated thousands of appraisers throughout the United States as an Appraisal Institute instructor, said, “Appraisers are so busy keeping up with new regulations and industry changes these days, we wanted to be certain to offer this presentation in the most convenient venue possible. The interactive format that is facilitated by ACI’s virtual classroom has proven a complete success.”

A long-time ACI client who completed the session stated: “Your 1004MC session was first-class. The material was very well presented, and Rich Heyn is a terrific instructor. Most of all, your company truly shines as a leader in providing top-notch tools and service to our industry.”

“ACI continues to offer client benefits not typically available through any other software provider in the industry,” said ACI President Dave Roberts. “Our primary goal in offering the online 1004MC session was to leverage technology and share knowledge from an on-staff appraisal expert. Offering education opportunities at no cost is just another way to show clients our appreciation and assist them in times of transition.”

Clients interested in additional online training may visit www.AppraisersChoice.com to view available sessions on ACI products.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industrywide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations the company services. The ACI client base features many of North America’s premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

ACI is a division of ISO, a leading source of information about risk, providing data, analytics, and decision-support services to professionals in many fields, including insurance, finance, real estate, health services, government, human resources, and risk management. The company draws on vast expertise in actuarial science, insurance coverage, fire protection, fraud prevention, catastrophe and weather risk, predictive modeling, data management, economic forecasting, social and technological trends, and many other fields. To meet the needs of diverse clients, ISO employs an experienced staff of business and technical specialists, analysts, and certified professionals. In the United States and around the world, ISO helps customers protect people, property, and financial assets.

ACI2009™ Debuts at Valuation Expo

Bea Acs — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 22:00:00 GMT

Appraisal professionals preview the latest ACI innovation featuring aerial imagery, new GPAR™ forms, ACI Sketch™, and side-by-side comps view

November 24, 2008, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, showcased its latest release, ACI2009™, to appraisal professionals at the Valuation Expo held in Las Vegas. ACI was a gold sponsor for the ninth consecutive year and the only appraisal forms vendor to sponsor the event.

ACI2009™ debuts more than 100 new features, forms, and functions that offer appraisers advanced report writing capabilities and technology previously unavailable in the industry. Highlights include:

ACI Sketch™—ACI’s newest product features enhanced editing tools and the ability to create a sketch quickly and easily, with minimal time and a short learning curve.
Pictometry®—3D-like aerial imaging that imports directly into the appraisal to provide visual enhancement.
GPAR™ Restricted Use Forms—Non-lending assignment forms designed by ACI’s in-house resident appraisal expert and Compliance Director, Richard Heyn, SRA. New restricted use forms bring the total GPAR series to eleven forms.
Full Addendum Editing—An enhanced editing feature that allows appraisers to modify content and text formatting within the actual addendum page.
Side-by-Side Comps View—A new feature that provides the ability to see all comparables on the same screen. Appraisers save time by making adjustments to comparables across the board.
Vertical and Horizontal Split Screen View—An enhancement that allows appraisers to place any form next to any other form in a new window.
eServices Connections for Delivery—ACI’s proprietary connections to lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate information providers. New connections to SFS, WFG, and Valocity add to the growing list of connections currently available.
eServices for Rules Compliance—New compliance rule sets in ACI2009™ that help appraisers save time and reduce errors by connecting with numerous clients and data sources. Includes new PARLogic® and GPAR rules sets for WFG, Finiti, and Valocity.

The system architecture in ACI2009™ takes advantage of emerging technologies to connect appraisers and their clients to the latest tools and services in the market, allowing them to pass along value-added benefits to their clients, as well as enhance efficiency of their offices.

“We were thrilled to unveil ACI2009™ at the Valuation Expo because it allowed ACI representatives to interact and share the excitement with hundreds of appraisal professionals,” said George Opelka, senior vice president, ACI. “The new GPAR forms driven by ACI’s Compliance Director, Rich Heyn, SRA, were of particular interest to appraisers as they find more opportunities to market their business and incorporate non-lending assignments into their portfolios.”

ACI2009™ is available for download to existing ACI appraisers who have an active ACI Premier Service Agreement. Appraisers new to ACI can enjoy introductory pricing and test-drive the ACI product suite through a fully functioning demo by calling ACI Sales at 800-234-8727 or going to www.aciweb.com.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

ACI Acquires Day One®, United Systems®, and Appraisal.com Assets

Bea Acs — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:30:00 GMT

Investment solidifies ACI’s industry leadership position; provides new business opportunities for appraisers

November 19, 2008, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, today announced the acquisition of assets of the Day One^®, United Systems^®, and Appraisal.com companies. Day One and United are long-standing software brands in the appraisal industry and used by thousands of appraisers. The completion of this acquisition solidifies ACI’s position as a leader in the industry and provides new business opportunities for appraisers.

ACI, the most financially secure appraisal software company in the industry, now includes the following brands: ACI, Lighthouse™, CRAL, Day One, and United Systems. ACI’s acquisitions, combined with the recent release of ACI2009™, demonstrate ACI’s continued investment in the appraisal industry.

“The purchase of the Day One and United brands, along with the other assets of Appraisal.com, furthers our plan of building the corporation through organic growth as well as strategic acquisitions,” said Dave Roberts, president, ACI. “Over the past dozen years, we have acquired seven different software companies and technology platforms, allowing us to expand our presence in the U.S. and Canada, gain operational economies of scale, and provide an enhanced product suite to our clients.”

“We are pleased to complete the sale of the Day One, United, and Appraisal.com assets to ACI,” said Doug Vincent, former CEO of Zaio Corp. “ACI represents the highest degree of business professionalism and the greatest opportunity for Day One and United appraisers to transition their software to a venue where they can expect premium support. The ACI product line is among the strongest in the industry and affords appraisers unrivaled stability—something coveted in today’s environment. With these acquisitions now concluded, Zaio is better positioned to continue to shift focus towards meeting obligations to its Zaio owners, partners, and affiliates regarding its core initiatives and deliverables.”

About ACI

ACI Deploys Improved Website for Appraisers

Bea Acs — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 12:00:00 GMT

ACIWEB.COM Features Online Store, Users’ Forum, Instructional Videos,
Compliance Corner Blog, and more

August 7, 2008, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator of technology for the valuation industry, announced today the launch of its newly designed website, www.aciweb.com. ACI’s website has been updated to enhance the ACI user experience and provide quick access to detailed and easy-to-understand product information. The site brings together relative content, allowing visitors to receive all the latest ACI news, while reflecting the accomplishments that have shaped the company into the market leader it is today.

Appraisers will find the new site dynamic and easy-to-navigate, with better visual and communication tools for interaction with ACI users and industry peers.

New features include:

ACI Online Store: A quick and easy method for ACI clients to renew their Premier Service, Lighthouse™ and eService subscriptions online.
Talk Live: An on-demand, live chat that provides a fast, online way to speak with a sales rep about ACI products or services.
ACI Forum: An interactive venue where users can exchange thoughts and ideas with thousands of other ACI professionals and in-house experts.
ACI in-MOTION Videos: Dozens of short product videos covering features and functionality within the ACI Collection and related products. Videos range in length from 30 seconds to two minutes and allow ACI users to quickly learn how to accomplish tasks from an ACI Certified Instructor.
ACI Tech Docs: ACI’s documentation library, housing nearly two-dozen product reference guides for ACI, Lighthouse™, and CRAL users. The guides are easily downloaded and provide information about ACI and related products.
Compliance Corner: ACI’s director of compliance, Rich Heyn, an SRA- and AQB-certified USPAP instructor with more than 30 years of professional appraisal experience, shares his unique industry knowledge and perspective in an on-going series of articles. Dedicated to appraisal-related issues, Compliance Corner topics will range from USPAP Compliance and Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac guidelines to the HVCC, client pressure, identity theft, and unusual property appraising, among others.

“The redesigned ACIWEB.COM provides ACI users with faster, better information and easier ways to conduct business with the company,” said George Opelka, senior vice president of ACI. “Multiple, new informational resources and communication vehicles are just the beginning of the changes we have planned. This website overhaul underscores our commitment to the thousands of ACI users across the United States and Canada, and further demonstrates our ability to raise-the-bar as a leading provider of valuation technology.”

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

ACI Strengthens Offering to Appraisers with ACI Sketch™

Bea Acs — Thu, 15 May 2008 12:00:00 GMT

May 15, 2008, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in providing technology solutions for the appraisal industry announced today that it has acquired the source code of the RapidSketch™ floorplan software from Buffalo-based Utilant, LLC. RapidSketch is one of the most popular software applications for creating accurate floorplan layouts and is used by tens of thousands of appraisal and insurance professionals throughout North America.

RapidSketch, which has already been integrated with ACI’s entire product line is now enhanced and re-branded as ACI Sketch™. ACI Sketch works on the desktop, tablet, and web, and incorporates numerous productivity-enhancing features:

Mouse and keyboard drawing with precision settings
Extensive drag-and-drop symbols library
Editor to create custom symbols
Library of stock labels
Drag center point of any line to quickly create an arc
Copy-and-paste cloning
Undo and Redo feature
Rectangle tool to draw the most common floor plan shape
Shapes tool for drawing octagonal decks, pentagonal sun-rooms, and geodesic domes
Image or blueprint tracing with auto-scaling
Angle, Rise & Run Display
Standard or metric support for U.S. and Canada appraisers
Display decimals or inches, or fractions of inches
Online help with video tutorials

According to ACI president Dave Roberts, "The acquisition of RapidSketch as the foundation for ACI Sketch complements our strategy of providing clients with a full-range of appraisal technology. While we will continue to offer appraisers a variety of sketch options, we have developed ACI Sketch to stand head-to-head with any product in the market. By owning the technology, we can develop and support the application without relying on any third party—translating into a better product with tighter integration and lower cost for ACI customers."

“ACI Sketch is one of the best new efficiency products for appraisers,” said Jay Delich, President of Arizona Appraisal Team, LLC. “We use it in the office and on our tablet PC’s in the field, both with great success. We are particularly impressed with the free-form approach that ACI Sketch brings to creating floorplans.”

Interested parties may contact ACI Sales at 1-800-234-8727 or online at www.aciweb.com

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America’s premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner. Headquartered in Palm Coast, Florida, ACI’s management and development team possess the type of experience coveted by decision makers responsible for bringing synergy to their daily workflows and processes.

ACI and Pictometry® Bring Aerial Imaging to Appraisals

Rosanna Bracciale — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:32:00 GMT

New eService Connects Appraisal Professionals with a World Leader in Digital Oblique Aerial Imaging.

March 17, 2008, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in providing technology solutions for the appraisal industry, and Pictometry®, a leading provider of geo-referenced aerial image libraries whose patented technology is used globally to capture oblique image libraries, announced today the two companies have reached an agreement that provides thousands of valuation professionals with access to 3-D like aerial imaging tools for use in the appraisal process.

Primarily used by government and private businesses, Pictometry captures up to 12 different views of any building, highway, or other land feature in an area. While traditional satellite and aerial photography is primarily straight down, or orthogonal, Pictometry’s all-digital images are taken at an angle, called oblique. This presents aerial photographs in a 3D-like manner. As a result, Pictometry’s image databases of cities, counties, and states provide a more information-rich source of visual data for its customers.

“Pictometry may redefine the way appraisal professionals research and review appraisal reports,” said George Opelka, senior vice president of ACI. “With Pictometry imagery accessible directly through the ACI eService platform, appraisal professionals can virtually fly around the subject property and neighborhood for which Pictometry images are available. We are excited to be at the forefront of this technology and to extend this newly integrated service to our customers.”

Pictometry joins a premier list of technology providers whose technology solutions are available to appraisal professionals through ACI’s eService connection. As a result of this integration, appraisers, lenders, and valuation professionals will have access directly through the ACI platform to Pictometry’s library of digital images of neighborhoods, landmarks, roads, and complete municipalities from multiple views.

“Pictometry is about visual intelligence and putting smart pictures in the hands—and at the fingertips—of those who need detailed visual information,” said Jim Murray, Pictometry’s director of Business to Business Development, adding, “We’re thrilled to be a part of this opportunity with ACI, and we expect this new tool will truly change how appraisers work.”

Interested parties may contact ACI Sales at 800-234-8727.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America’s premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner. Headquartered in Palm Coast, Florida, ACI’s management and development team possess the type of experience coveted by decision makers responsible for bringing synergy to their daily workflows and processes.

About Pictometry

Pictometry International Corp. is a leading provider of geo-referenced, aerial image libraries and related software. Pictometry has captured over 50 million digital aerial images in over 600 counties in the United States covering over 70 percent of the United States population. Using its proprietary imaging process, Pictometry® captures geo-referenced, high-resolution oblique (at an angle, producing a 3-D like view) and orthogonal (straight down) Intelligent Images®, within which structures and land features can be measured. Pictometry customizes and markets these technologies for government and commercial applications, offering non-traditional software solutions to aerial imaging needs. Pictometry’s imagery and software enables users to “See Everywhere, Measure Anything, Plan Everything”® using a patented digital information system. Pictometry has its headquarters in Rochester, NY and an office in Europe. Pictometry is a second order visualization tool that does not produce authoritative or definitive information (surveying) from its digital, aerial images. For more information on Pictometry, visit http://www.pictometry.com/.

HomePuter® Licenses ACI’s GPAR™ Forms

admin — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 17:48:00 GMT

Appraisers Benefit from ACI’s Alternative Use Appraisal Reports

June 28, 2007, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, the leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, announced today that HomePuter®, a provider of real estate appraisal software, has entered into a special arrangement with ACI that allows HomePuter to provide ACI’s GPAR™ (General Purpose Appraisal Report) to its clients nationwide.

The desire for alternate use appraisal reports has been an industry wide need since the release of the updated Fannie Mae forms in 2005. More than a year ago, ACI released its first GPAR form, which was developed by ACI’s on-staff Senior Residential Appraiser (SRA), Richard Heyn.

As a result of positive feedback from the first GPAR release, ACI with its in-house appraiser, proceeded to develop a library of alternative-use forms to satisfy various property types. The GPAR forms now include: Condo, Single Family, Multi Family, and Land, with Restricted Use and the Plus Series forms to follow shortly.

“We recognize there are a number of alternate-use forms available in the market today. However, appraisers continue to ask for ACI’s GPAR. I applaud ACI for having the vision to create a winning solution for ACI appraisers and for working with HomePuter to provide GPAR to our appraisers,” said Andrew Romano, President, HomePuter.

“Appraisers, appraisal instructors, and appraisal software companies recognize GPAR as a viable solution to the non-lending assignment dilemma — and for obvious reasons. GPAR is a natural for cloning files and transferring data quickly, with no learning curve necessary for users familiar with the URAR. As a result of our arrangement with HomePuter, the HomePuter appraisers will now join the thousands of ACI appraisers with access to GPAR,” said George Opelka, Senior Vice President, ACI.

GPAR is currently available through ACI and HomePuter. Interested parties may contact George Opelka, ACI Senior Vice President.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

Headquartered in Palm Coast, Florida, ACI’s management and development team possess the type of experience coveted by decision makers responsible for bringing synergy to their daily workflows and processes.

Rich Heyn, ACI’s Compliance Director Leads ACI’s Continuing Education Program

admin — Mon, 21 May 2007 17:56:00 GMT

May 21, 2007, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry has added continuing education to its portfolio of services for appraisal professionals. Rich Heyn, SRA, ACI’s Compliance Director and an AQB certified USPAP instructor, serves as lead facilitator in ACI’s Continuing Education (“CE”) program.

Last month, Appraisers from all over the country attended the ACI hosted, Appraisal Institute approved seminar: Liability Management for Residential Appraisers. The seminar was developed by ACI’s Compliance Director, and attendees earned seven hours of CE credit.

Liability Management is designed to guide new appraisers in developing liability avoidance strategies early in their career, as well assist seasoned appraisers in assessing and modifying their existing loss prevention policies. The seminar covers issues relating to USPAP, the ASB, and Fannie Mae’s revised appraisal and property forms.

With over 30 years of appraisal experience, ACI’s Compliance Director currently develops and teaches a variety of continuing education seminars on a national basis. Professionals seek the knowledge of a seasoned professional when navigating an increasingly competitive and complex industry; and Rich’s expertise makes him ideally suited to assist appraisers today. Rich’s recent seminar on the URAR form, developed for the Appraisal Institute, was attended by over 10,000 appraisers in the past twelve months.

“Tapping into Rich’s knowledge and sharing this resource with appraisers, lenders, and other industry professionals is a significant coup for the entire valuation community,” said Dave Roberts, President, ACI.

“Our clients represent leaders throughout the valuation industry, and our seminars offer a learning environment that fulfills appraisers’ CE obligation, while at the same time, providing relevant and useful information.” said Rich Heyn. “I’m particularly excited that the ACI clients will be among the first to have access to two new seminars currently in development.”

Interested parties may visit http://www.appraiserschoice.com/ for information on upcoming CE seminars presented by ACI.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

ACI Acquires Real Estate Exchange Depot™

admin — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 17:58:00 GMT

Appraisal Software Leader Expands Product Offering

April 3, 2007, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, announced today the acquisition of the Real Estate Exchange Depot™ (REXDepot™), an Internet-based management platform for appraisers.

Marking ACI’s fourth acquisition during the Microsoft Windows era, REXDepot™ rounds out an already robust product portfolio. REXDepot™ will continue to expand as a product under the guidance and control of ACI and will serve as a vehicle to further extend ACI’s leadership role in the appraisal technology industry.

“ACI is a dominant force in the world of appraisal software. REXDepot™ needed the vision, leadership, and commitment of an industry leader like ACI to reach the next level,” said Steve Smith, founder, REXDepot™. “As both the founder and as a customer of REXDepot™, I’m excited for my appraisal business and for all of the customers using the system.”

REXDepot™ was designed to improve operational efficiencies for appraisers and their clients. It boasts a complete, web-based, appraisal office management system, allowing appraisers to easily coordinate assignments, communicate with clients, track accounts receivables, prepare payroll reports, and more.

“REXDepot™ represents another exciting addition to the services that ACI provides to appraisers,” said Dave Roberts, President, ACI. “With this acquisition, we are committed to advancing the REXDepot™ platform for the benefit of both ACI clients, as well as non-ACI brand users.”

Interested parties may contact ACI Sales at 800-234-8727 for further information.

Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier appraisers, lenders, and national appraisal companies. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

ACI2006™ Connects Apex Medina™

Rosanna Bracciale — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 19:29:00 GMT

Full Product Integration Available through ACI

March 26, 2007, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, announced today that ACI2006™ now provides full integration with Apex Medina. This latest offering from Apex boasts a cleaner interface, easier usability, and over 50 enhancements and features.

“ACI was our first integration partner, and it all began with a hand shake back in the 90’s. That means a lot to me,” commented Randall H. Garrett, CEO and founder of Apex Software. “Ever since then, we’ve enjoyed a unique relationship with ACI that continues to this very day. We’re ecstatic about the Medina integration with a great product like ACI, and we’re looking forward to doing even more together.”

The Medina integration is just the latest development in ACI’s continual affirmation of its commitment to clients through enhancements, unique offerings, and integrated products from industry partners. The latest generation of Apex’s desktop sketching software ties together functionality with efficiency and allows ACI users to take advantage of feature-rich pairings that add to the many benefits already available through ACI.

“I am always pleased when we can provide our clients the latest industry product and the Medina integration is no exception. Apex has been a partner of ACI since 1995 and their products are an offering that we are pleased to sell, as well as support, directly.” said George Opelka, Senior Vice President, ACI.

Apex Medina is now available through ACI at introductory pricing. Interested parties may contact ACI Sales at 800-234-8727.

About Apex

Apex Software is a business applications developer serving 130,000 customers in the real estate valuation and mobile professional markets. Apex Sketching Software, an industry standard for 20 years, offers fast, easy, high quality sketching and enclosed area calculations. For more information, contact Apex at 800-858-9958 or visit http://www.apexwin.com/v5/home.php.

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier appraisers, lenders, and national appraisal companies. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.

RapidSketch™ Now Available in ACI2006™

Rosanna Bracciale — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 20:34:00 GMT

Advanced Sketching Solution Connects with The Appraisers Choice™

November 20, 2006, Palm Coast, FL. ACI, a leading innovator in technology for the valuation industry, announced today that RapidSketch™, an advanced software application for creating floor plan diagrams, is now fully integrated with ACI2006™. RapidSketch™ is a product of Utilant, a New York-based company that provides sketching solutions for appraisers and insurance inspectors.

With RapidSketch™, ACI brings yet another offering to the already feature-rich ACI2006™ appraisal software. Combining innovation and utility, RapidSketch™ introduces several new concepts to the floor plan software industry that make mouse drawing intuitive, easy, and incredibly powerful.

“We are thrilled that ACI, the definitive leader amongst appraisal software companies has completed the RapidSketch™ integration. Offering RapidSketch™ with ACI2006™ means that we are positioned alongside a product that reaches thousands of appraisers each day and able to help them experience a faster, more efficient way to complete their appraisal reports. We couldn’t ask for a better partner or product platform in this industry,” said Patrick Davis, partner, Utilant.

“Appraisers took an instant liking to RapidSketch™ when the product was initially previewed at the Valuation Expo in Las Vegas,” said George Opelka, vice president, ACI. “With RapidSketch™, ACI continues its commitment of providing superior product choice and stability while meeting the ever-growing needs of appraisers."

RapidSketch™ is now available with introductory pricing. All interested parties may contact ACI Sales at 800-234-8727

About ACI

ACI, a pioneer in crafting technology solutions for the valuation community, has gained industry-wide recognition and support from leaders in the field. ACI’s highly scalable appraisal solutions ensure a partnership tailored to the needs of the organizations it services. The ACI client base features many of North America's premier lenders, national appraisal companies, and real estate brokerage firms. From connecting appraisers nationwide to streamlining quality control, the flexibility provided gives organizations the means for processing appraisals and managing exceptions in a consistent and efficient manner.