The National Association of Real Estate Appraisers (NAREA) 

The National Association of Real Estate Appraisers (NAREA), a professional society of highly qualified real estate professionals, based in Palm Springs, CA, and founded in 1966. NAREA confers the designation of Certified Real Estate Appraiser (CREA) to candidates who are state certified, pay annual dues, and are accepted by the NAREA.

NAREA includes a rigorous code of ethics and has represented more than 4,000 appraisers in the United States.

The association provides standards, guidelines, regulations, education, training, and recognition in the field of residential and commercial real estate valuation. It also provides representation on local, state and national legislative issues. Members must adhere to the NAREA Code of Ethics and the nationally required Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

CREA Certification and Designation

For the professional appraiser, State Certified, who performs appraisal assignments of residential properties such as single family residences, 2-4 unit residences, condominium units, cooperatives, and similar types of real estate. Requires a full-level state appraiser's certification, adherence to both NAREA code of ethics, and the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).