WILLEMSTAD – The Antillean Association of Real Estate Brokers and Property Appraisers (AVMT) is sounding the alarm over the lack of legal protection for the title “real estate appraiser” on Curaçao, warning that the absence of regulation leaves the property market vulnerable to misconduct and declining professional standards.
According to the organization, it has been advocating for more than fifty years for legislation aimed at improving professionalism, independence and oversight within the real estate appraisal sector.
The AVMT says the lack of legal protection has contributed to unqualified practices, conflicts of interest and appraisals being manipulated to facilitate transactions.
“Without legal protection, the appraiser remains completely exposed, and Curaçao pays the price,” board member Rob Salas stated in a declaration issued by the association.
The organization emphasized that reliable property appraisals are essential for banks, notaries, courts and private citizens. According to the AVMT, legal requirements concerning education, disciplinary oversight and transparency are necessary to strengthen trust in Curaçao’s real estate sector.
The association is now urging the government to introduce legislation that formally protects the professional title of appraisers and guarantees the quality and integrity of property valuations on the island.