Final answer:
Real estate licensees must use clear, non-misleading, and professional language in appraisals, complying with standards like the USPAP. Special care must be taken to be respectful of diverse cultures, ensuring accessibility and comprehension for a broad audience. The Plain Writing Act of 2010 is particularly relevant to drafting understandable documents.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a real estate licensee provides an opinion or appraisal of market value, the language must be clear, non-misleading, and professional. It should comply with the ethical and professional standards set by regulatory bodies, such as the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and local real estate commission rules and regulations. The appraisal must avoid any language or ideas that could be deemed harmful or offensive to other cultures, and it must consider the preferences and understanding of a diverse audience, including people of various abilities. Special attention should be given to ensure the language is understandable to the average person, particularly considering guidelines such as the Plain Writing Act of 2010.
Real estate licensees often include disclaimers and statements about the scope of the appraisal, their qualifications, and any potential conflicts of interest. Depending on jurisdiction, specific language or disclosures may be legally required in such reports, and it is advisable for licensees to familiarize themselves with these to comply fully with the law and professional best practices. The language should prioritize simplicity, objectivity, and transparency to make the document accessible and reliable.